Moja Kwa Moja na Beat Kidd, aka Stevie🎧

🎧 “Stevie.” One word, and the whole room knows what’s coming. 🔥 Beat Kidd of E-SYDE Entertainment, the producer behind Kenya’s biggest songs right now and the Producer of the Year at the 2025 Unkut Hiphop Awards 🏆, joined me for an interview on my Moja kwa Moja segment. 🎤 Here’s the conversation: 👇

1. Where did your musical journey begin?

I grew up in Komarock Estate, Nairobi. My dad introduced me to music early through musical toys like a piano, and I played drums in church. Later, I got into DJing in high school. I initially wanted to be a rapper, but a friend introduced me to FL Studio, and that’s how I got into production. I taught myself through YouTube, practice, and experimenting. No music school, just passion and hard work.

2. What did winning Producer of the Year mean to you?

It meant a lot. I’ve put in years of work behind the scenes, so winning at the UnKut Hip Hop Awards was a big moment. Kenyan producers are getting more recognition, but we still need better pay, proper credits, and fair royalties. Making the beat is one thing, but producers should also benefit from the business.

3. How did you get the Sol Generation 25Flow Cypher opportunity?

A fellow producer, K Wise, recommended me to Sol Generation. I’m grateful for that connection. It was a great opportunity to showcase my sound on a bigger platform and work on a project featuring talented rappers. It also showed me how important producer relationships are in this game.

4. What’s the most annoying thing artists do in the studio?

Coming late, not being prepared, and expecting everything for free. Studio time is work, and time is money. I also respect artists who listen to feedback and come ready to create. Talent is important, but discipline matters too.

5. Do you have issues with artists over money and splits?

It happens in music. That’s why I believe in discussing splits, ownership, and royalties before releasing a song. Put agreements in writing and make sure everyone understands their share. Friendship is good, but business needs structure.

6. Describe a Beat Kidd beat in three words.

Gritty. Energetic. Unapologetic.

7. Would you produce R&B or experimental music?

Definitely. I don’t want to be boxed into one sound. I do drill, trap, dancehall, and more. If an artist brings me R&B or something experimental, I’m ready. Good production is about adapting while keeping your own identity.

8. Did you know “Chinje” with Toxic Lyrikali would become a hit?

You never really know how big a song will get. I focus on making the best music possible for the artist. Seeing Chinje grow and connect with people is a great feeling. It shows what can happen when the right artist and production come together.

9. What’s the secret behind your chemistry with Toxic Lyrikali and Kapitani?

Consistency, trust, and understanding each artist’s sound. When you work together over time, you learn what brings out their best. I let artists be themselves while making sure the production hits right.

10. Do you make beat breakdown videos?

Yes, I already have beat breakdown videos on my YouTube channel. I learned a lot from YouTube myself, so I also want to share knowledge with upcoming producers. You don’t need expensive gear to start. Learn your tools, train your ears, and keep creating.

11. What advice would you give a bedroom producer in Kenya?

Start with what you have and master it. I taught myself, so I know you can grow without having a big studio. But don’t focus on beats alone. Learn publishing, royalties, contracts, and business. Talent can open doors, but consistency and business knowledge help you stay in the game.

12. What’s next for Beat Kidd?

I’ve got some riddims cooking and other collaborative projects in the works. I’m also focused on growing E-SYDE Entertainment into something bigger, covering production, recording, mixing, mastering, video, and artist development. Winning the award was a milestone, but I’m still building. More music, more collaborations, bigger moves.