Kenyan musician Eric Wainaina has set his sights on an ambitious goal—composing a soundtrack for the next Black Panther film.
The celebrated Nchi ya Kitu Kidogo hitmaker is also eyeing a Grammy Award, hoping to put East African music on the global map.
Speaking on Netwalking, a YouTube series hosted by Jacquey Nyaminde that premiered on March 22, 2025, Wainaina opened up about his musical journey and his determination to grab the attention of Black Panther producers with an original soundtrack.
Wainaina also shared his Grammy dreams but acknowledged the fierce competition, especially from Nigerian artists who currently dominate the African music category.
“My career is going well, but I’m trying to win a real Grammy. I believe in the African category, but right now, Nigerians are leading. I just feel like we can’t beat them at their own game,” he admitted.
Rather than competing head-on, Wainaina believes the key to success lies in East African artists creating a unique, distinct sound that sets them apart on the global stage.
With the third installment of Black Panther currently in development, Wainaina is making a strong case for an East African influence in the film’s soundtrack.
“They’ve already done South Africa, they’ve done West Africa. It’s time for East Africa. This is the cradle of humanity. I’m beginning to gather music from this region and say: ‘Wakanda films, come for this.’”
Beyond the Black Panther dream, Wainaina is also working on a project inspired by protest movements across Africa.
He revealed that he had started the initiative even before the recent demonstrations in Kenya, drawing influence from events in Sudan.
