Red Acapella aka Akafellas was an urban folk music duo based in Nairobi, Kenya, formed in 2007 by Magaa the Good Fella (Stephen Oduor) and Yabadoo the Other Fella (Alfred Nthale). The group became known for their distinctive rhumba-fusion sound, blending traditional East African rhumba with contemporary urban influences to create music that was both nostalgic and forward-facing.

Their approach to music emphasised live instrumentation, vocal harmony, and storytelling, positioning them within a unique space that bridged folk traditions and modern Kenyan sound. Through performances on platforms such as Citizen TV’s 10 Over 10 and a series of collaborations, they built a strong presence within the local music scene.

Their catalogue includes notable collaborations such as “Tena Na Tena” with H_art the Band, “Taabu” with 125, and “Hii Ni Ya” featuring Proff Kenya, alongside tracks like “Jatelo” and “Ona Sasa.” They also worked with Virusi Mbaya on tracks such as “Mr. Politician” and “Mama Told Me,” collaborations that reflected their ability to move fluidly across different creative circles while maintaining a distinct identity.

Red Acapella also contributed to a broader movement of artists exploring alternative and folk-inspired directions within Nairobi’s urban music landscape, offering a contrast to more mainstream sounds at the time.

As the group transitioned into a period of hiatus, both members began to explore individual artistic paths, extending the ideas that first defined Red Acapella into new creative territories. Rather than signalling an end, this shift reflects an evolution. Their work continues to live on through their solo identities, influencing new sounds while carrying forward the essence of their original collaboration. In many ways, their journey highlights how creative partnerships can transform over time, allowing artists to grow independently while still contributing to a shared legacy.

Stephen Oduor now creates and produces music under the name Magaa, working across multiple roles as an artist, producer, and mentor. His work has seen him collaborate with artists such as Suzanna Owiyo and Octopizzo, while also contributing to film and soundtrack projects and mentoring emerging talent through initiatives like perFORM Music Incubator. Alfred Nthale, now known as Yaba, has developed his own signature style known as Rhumbacane, continuing to evolve rhumba through a contemporary lens and collaborating with artists including Bien, Femi One, and King Kaka.

As Red Acapella, their legacy remains an important part of Nairobi’s alternative music history, representing an early exploration of how traditional African sounds could be reimagined within a modern urban context.