Gibson Kioi Wairimu, better known by his stage name Kioi Junior, has died.
The news of his death was announced by fellow Kikuyu musicians on Tuesday April 30.
Kioi Jr. died on Monday April 29 while receiving treatment at the KU Referral Hospital where he had been admitted.
Born in Kambiti, Murang’a County, Kioi Junior was the younger brother of Magua Kioi and cousin of evangelist Elijah Miller.
His maternal uncle was veteran Benga artist Kamande wa Kioi. Growing up in a musical household, Kioi Jr learned to play the guitar with ease.
He began his musical journey in Kamande wa Kioi’s band.
Kioi Jr. attended Kambiti Secondary School before continuing his education at a high school along Jogoo Road in Nairobi.
Despite his musical pursuits, he also trained as a civil engineer.
In 2020, he made headlines when he openly declared himself an atheist, denying the existence of both God and Satan.
The musician’s journey in music began back in 2008, and by the age of 15 he had already begun to question the existence of God.
During a heated debate on Gukena FM, Kioi expressed his disbelief in supernatural powers, despite being brought up in a religious environment.
He argued that Christianity had led him to atheism, dismissing it as an ancient fantasy dating back to 2000 BC.
However, he admitted to singing about God to entertain his audience, stating:
“I live as if there is no God and I don’t think people should lie to themselves. All I need is proof that either God or Satan exists. Faith is ignorance”.
Kioi Junior was a member of the Global Atheist Republic, based in the USA.
Regarding his wife’s faith, he claimed that nothing could be known about the existence or nature of God.
“You have to read the Bible with an open mind to become an atheist. I read it and decided not to accept the lies in it. I find atheists more genuine than believers, especially in business. I have even convinced some of my friends to become atheists,” Kioi added.
Condolences from Kikuyu musicians:
Nyokks was Katta: His mastery of the art of playing the guitar was just on another level… He was a great songwriter and a talented artist… Kioo had a very sweet side, as those who interacted with him will tell you for a fact… Today, when I remember all the crazy moments we had on air, the music, the interaction, the laughter, the devotion… I find it hard to write RIP Kioi Junior.
Samidoh: Today we mourn the loss of a brilliant songwriter and skilled guitarist. Personally, I’ve lost a brother and mentor whose presence has shaped my musical journey. Memories flood back of our time together at Githurai 44, bonding over records of githeri at Kwa Guchu. Your guidance, especially teaching me chords, will forever resonate in my music.
Karangu wa Muraya: Rest in peace Kioi Junior, to my brother and friend Kamande wa Kioi, may Jehovah comfort you.
By Nairobinews