Redsan (real name Swabri Mohammed) born 1 May 1981, is a Kenyan reggae and ragga musician. He is one of the most well renowned ragga and dancehall artists in East Africa. His popularity has extended to the rest of Africa,and parts of Europe, United States, and the Middle East.

Career

His music career began when he won the Star Search challenge hosted at Carnivore discothèque in Nairobi in 1998. He released his first album ‘Seasons of the San (2002)’ as part of the Ogopa Djs unit. Seasons of the San churned out nine hits alone, best known tracks on the album are “Julie” and “Wanipa Raha”. He then embarked on his solo career and released his second album under Southwest Records. It also included hit song “Bageya”, a collaboration with Ugandan artist Chameleone.

His second album Red, was released in 2004. It contained hit tracks “Chicken”, “Malaika” and “Apakatwe”.

His third album, Pioneer, was released in 2006 with hit singles such as “Kenyan” and “Touch”. His own music is currently being produced by Monalisa. As an artist he continues to write all the songs sometimes with co-writers. He has toured in several countries around the world. Redsan has earned the nickname ‘Absentee Dance hall King” in Kenyan media as he is always on tour outside the county.

After many hit songs, Redsan formed his own label called Dutty Sounds. The label focuses on dancehall, hip hop and R&B musicians. Redsan’s career has been marred by various feuds, especially another premier Kenya musician, Prezzo. He is being produced by Monalisa, an outfit based in Miami, USA.

Albums

• Seasons of the San (2002)


• Red (2004)


• Pioneer (2006)


• Versatility (2009)

Awards

Won:

2005 Chaguo La Teeniez – Best Male Artiste

2005 Kisima Music Awards Best Reggae/Ragga

Nominated:

2003 Kora Awards – Most Promising African Male.

2004 Kora Awards – Best East African Male Artist

2006 Tanzania Music Awards – Best East African Album (Pioneer)

2006 Pearl of Africa Music Awards – Best Kenyan Male Artiste

Family, Wife and Children

He is now married to Viverz Mohammed in 2012.