Kenyan musician Mejja has reflected on the values and life lessons he considers most important, revealing the three things he would hold on to if his money, fame, music, and following disappeared overnight. Speaking on the Tubonge Podcast hosted by Chris the Bass, Mejja drew from nearly two decades in the music industry and his experiences that have shaped his outlook on life. Mejja began his music career in 2007 and was raised in Nyeri in modest surroundings.
Mejja identified appreciation for family as the first lesson he would keep. He explained that growing older and becoming a parent had given him a deeper understanding of the sacrifices parents make while raising their children. According to Mejja, maturity often brings a greater appreciation of the challenges parents endured and the effort they put into providing for their families. Family remains one of the few constants that can withstand changes in wealth, fame, and circumstances.
The second lesson Mejja highlighted was the importance of maintaining a small circle of trusted friends. Mejja observed that success and changing environments can sometimes cause people to lose touch with who they were before they became successful. He noted that artists, in particular, can find themselves surrounded by new people and influences as their careers grow, potentially making it easier to lose their original identity and connection to reality.
Mejja's third lesson centred on financial literacy and learning how to manage money from an early age. He stressed that earning money is only one part of achieving financial stability, with the ability to manage and understand finances being equally important. Mejja encouraged young people to actively seek financial education, whether through mentors or short courses, to make better decisions and build greater financial stability over time.
Throughout the conversation, Mejja also emphasised patience, humility, and consistent effort. He recalled a period when he recorded about 30 songs in an effort to attract corporate recognition, contrasting his experience with that of some newer artistes who can gain attention after releasing just one or two songs. For Mejja, the difference highlights the importance of persistence and refusing to measure one's journey against the success of others.
Mejja's reflections point to values that extend beyond music and fame: appreciating family, maintaining genuine relationships, understanding money, and remaining patient throughout life's journey. He believes sustained hard work helps build longevity while reducing the self-doubt that can come with a slow start. Mejja's philosophy is built on patience and gratitude, which he considers essential for navigating life's challenges.
Mejja's insights offer a glimpse into the values that have guided his career and personal life. His emphasis on family, financial literacy, and a small inner circle underscores the importance of staying grounded in the face of success. As Mejja put it, "gratitude is a must," highlighting the need to appreciate the little things in life and stay humble despite achievements. His story serves as a reminder that true fulfilment comes from within.
Key points
- Appreciation for family is a key lesson Mejja would keep if fame and fortune disappeared.
- Maintaining a small circle of trusted friends is crucial for staying grounded in the face of success.
- Financial literacy and learning how to manage money from an early age are essential for achieving financial stability.
