Radio airplay remains the fastest way to reach millions of Kenyan listeners. Getting your song on radio requires strategy, persistence, and understanding how the industry works.
Major Radio Stations for Music
Capital FM plays contemporary hits and has massive reach nationwide. Kiss FM targets younger audiences with trending music. Radio Citizen broadcasts in Swahili reaching diverse demographics. Homeboyz Radio focuses on urban music and hip-hop. Classic 105 serves older audiences with varied tastes. Milele FM specializes in Swahili music. Kameme FM is ideal for Kikuyu language music.
How to Submit Your Music
Most stations accept music via email to their music directors. Call the station first to get the correct email address. Send high-quality MP3 files, not links. Include a brief artist bio and social media handles. Professional artwork for your single makes a difference. Follow up after one week if you don’t hear back.
Costs and Payments
Some stations play music for free based purely on quality. Playlist promotion can cost KES 20,000-100,000 depending on the station. Prime-time slots cost more than late-night airplay. Gospel stations often have lower or no costs. Regional stations charge less than Nairobi-based ones. Build relationships with DJs for organic plays without payment.
Increasing Your Chances
Professional production quality is non-negotiable. Catchy hooks in the first 30 seconds grab attention. Clean lyrics pass easier through station filters. Trending topics make your song more relevant. Songs between 3-4 minutes work best for radio formats.
Understanding Playlists
A-list gets heavy rotation throughout the day. B-list plays several times daily. C-list gets occasional plays. New music usually starts on C-list. Strong social media buzz can move you up faster.
Working With DJs
Attend radio station events and network. Engage with DJs on social media genuinely. Don’t spam or beg—be professional. Some DJs have shows where they feature new artists. Request interviews when your song gains traction.
Digital Presence Matters
Stations check your YouTube views and Spotify streams. Active social media shows you’re serious. Radio wants artists who promote themselves. Press releases and blogs about your music help. Music videos increase chances of TV rotation too.
After Getting Airplay
Thank the station publicly on social media. Share clips of your song playing on air. Keep promoting even after initial plays stop. Deliver new music consistently to maintain relationships.
Radio airplay creates opportunities for concerts, collaborations, and growing your fanbase across Kenya.