Early Life
Khaligraph Jones, Brian Ouko Omollo born on June 12, 1990, in Kayole, Nairobi , grew up in a challenging environment. He is the fourth of seven siblings and was named after the late Kenyan politician Dr. Robert Ouko. His family faced financial difficulties, which influenced his early education and aspirations. Despite scoring a D+ in his high school exams, Khaligraph’s passion for music remained strong, and he began performing at local events during his teenage years.
Music Career
Khaligraph’s music career officially began in 2008 when he participated in an event called “Words And Pictures.” His breakthrough came in 2009 when he won the Channel O Emcee Africa competition, which significantly raised his profile in the Kenyan music scene. He gained further recognition with his 2013 hit “Yego,” a tribute to Kenyan javelin champion Julius Yego, which resonated widely across the country.
In 2014, he released his debut studio album, Point of No Return, followed by another album, Testimony 1990, in 2018. Khaligraph is known for his innovative freestyle raps and has collaborated with various artists, both locally and internationally, enhancing his reputation as a leading figure in hip-hop. His popular tracks include “Mazishi,” “Toa Tint,” and “Now You Know” among others.
Awards and Recognition
Khaligraph’s talent has earned him numerous accolades. He was named Best Rap Act at the African Muzik Magazine Awards (AFRIMMA) in 2018 and won the Best Hip Hop Act at the SoundCity MVP Awards in 2020. Additionally, he received a nomination for the Best International Flow category at the 2020 BET Awards, becoming the first Kenyan to achieve this recognition but unfortunately he lost to stormzy.
His contributions to the music industry extend beyond his own performances. Khaligraph has launched initiatives like the Khali Cartel series, which provides a platform for emerging rappers to showcase their talent. He also participated in Coke Studio Africa, collaborating with various artists to promote African music.
Personal Life
Khaligraph Jones is married to Georgina Muteti, and they have two children together. He maintains a close relationship with his family, often sharing insights about his life and career through social media. His journey from humble beginnings to becoming a prominent figure in the music industry serves as an inspiration to many aspiring artists in Kenya and beyond.
Entrepreneurship
In addition to his music career, Khaligraph has ventured into business. He founded Omollo Customz, a company that specializes in luxury cars. His success in this field is evident in his impressive car collection, which includes high-end models like a Mercedes Benz and a Lexus LX570. This entrepreneurial spirit showcases his versatility and ambition beyond music.
He is also the founder and CEO of Blu Ink Corp, a music label based in Kenya. He officially opened the doors to the Blu Ink Recording Studios in 2017, offering superior service quality while providing a platform for artists to showcase their talent. In 2021, Khaligraph announced plans to sign up three new artists to his label, committing 500K to the project. The label also sells branded merchandise such as hoodies and sweatpants with their slogan “RESPECT THE OG’S”.
Legacy And Impact
Khaligraph Jones stands out as one of Kenya’s most successful rappers, known for his lyrical prowess and dynamic performances. His journey reflects resilience, talent, and a commitment to uplifting others in the music industry. Khaligraph continues to influence the Kenyan music scene while also pursuing entrepreneurial ventures, making him a multifaceted artist and a role model for many.