CMB Prezzo, a renowned figure in the Kenyan entertainment industry, has made a substantial impact through his music, vibrant personality, and political aspirations.
Born in Nairobi, he rose to fame in the early 2000s with hit songs that captured the hearts of many.
Over the years, Prezzo has not only showcased his talent as a rapper and singer but has also ventured into various philanthropic endeavors, reflecting his commitment to social change.
His foray into politics marked a new chapter in his career, and despite facing challenges, he remains optimistic about his future aspirations. This article delves into his life and accomplishments.
Who is CMB Prezzo?
Jackson Ngechu Makini, known as CMB Prezzo, is a famous Kenyan rapper, musician, and entrepreneur. He is well-known in East Africa.
Prezzo stands out for his flashy style and his impact on Kenya’s hip-hop scene. His journey includes many ups and downs.
He grew up in Eastleigh and rose to become a music icon. His life includes personal controversies and a recent change as he became a born-again Christian. Overall, Prezzo’s story shows resilience and the ability to reinvent himself.
Early Life and Education
CMB Prezzo was born in 1980 and grew up in Eastleigh, Nairobi, with his siblings. His Tanzanian mother, Dina Bokeh Makini, and Kenyan father, Morris Makini, raised them.
In 1990, the family moved to Lang’ata. Tragically, just three years later, Prezzo’s father passed away from cancer.
During his school years, Prezzo attended several elementary schools. He completed his primary education at Greensted International School but faced challenges along the way.
After starting at Greensted, he got expelled and later moved to Braeburn School. Prezzo is known for his bold personality. He often talked about his family’s wealth and referred to his mother as his “other god” and best friend.
Music, Movies and BBA
Prezzo made his debut in Kenya’s music industry in 2002 with the single “Malaika Mama,” featuring Wyre as a tribute to his mother. He quickly gained recognition with the release of “Kwenye Club.”
His 2003 hit “Naleta Action” solidified his place in Kenyan hip-hop. That same year, he teamed up with Nazizi on “Let’s Get Down,” which remains one of his most popular tracks.
Prezzo’s success earned him several awards at the Chaguo La Teeniez Awards. Industry peers praised him for bringing a fresh and experimental sound to Kenyan hip-hop. Building on his solo success, he founded Cash Money Brothers (CMB), a music group that included Nazizi and her late brother, Feroze Hirji.
In 2004, Prezzo released his first album, “Naleta Action,” featuring popular tracks like “Mafans,” “Nipe Nikupe,” and “Leo Ni Leo.”
The album also included a gospel song titled “Mahangaiko,” featuring Talia Oyando. His music videos pushed boundaries in Kenya.
His iconic hit “Prezzo,” released in 2005, had a production cost of over Sh500,000, setting a new standard for video quality in the industry.
By 2008, Prezzo gained fame not only in music but also in television. He appeared in Alfred Mutua’s popular TV series “Cobra Squad,” where he played Lolianga, receiving great acclaim.
After a successful run, he took a break from the entertainment scene until 2012, when he joined the reality show Big Brother Africa.
Following his appearance, he returned to the studio and released “My City My Town,” featuring Cannibal.
Relationships and Drama
Prezzo’s personal life has been characterized by several high-profile relationships. In 2006, he dated media personality Sheila Mwanyigha, with whom he collaborated on the song “Tazama Mbele.”
Their relationship ended around 2007, although details surrounding their breakup are limited.
In December 2008, Prezzo married his long-time friend, Daisy Jematia Kiplagat, in a lavish ceremony at Karen Golf Club. However, their marriage faced significant challenges, and in 2012, Daisy filed for divorce, alleging abuse and infidelity.
Prezzo asserted that their relationship deteriorated when Daisy insisted he leave music for a corporate job.
Following a contentious custody battle, Daisy was awarded custody of their daughter in 2013.
During his time on “Big Brother Africa,” Prezzo became involved with Nigerian singer and housemate Goldie Harvey, who sadly passed away in 2013.
Later that year, he proposed to socialite Michelle Yola, although the relationship ended shortly afterward.
In 2018, rumors emerged about a romance with Tanzanian socialite Amber Lulu, but reports indicated that they separated in 2019.
Prezzo has also been linked to clout chasers like Huddah Monroe, Noti Flow, and Chagga Barbie throughout his dating history.
Is CMB Prezzo a politician?
Prezzo expressed his determination to continue his work in the Kasarani constituency despite not winning the parliamentary seat in the 2022 elections.
He views this experience as a valuable learning opportunity and emphasizes that he has always aimed high in his endeavors.
“I never fail in anything I do; this is my first failure in life, but I am trying to look at it as a learning curve and not failure,” he stated.
This outlook reflects a sense of maturity and optimism that he embodies. However, Prezzo reflected on one of the significant challenges he faced during his campaign—that he did not distribute cash as part of his outreach.
He shared his surprise at the expectation from the electorate for monetary support, stating,
“I thought all I had to do was convince the people of Kasarani that I am the change that they can believe in. But then whenever I went there, they always asked me for cash like 50 shillings, and I was like no, that is not it; that is not my agenda.”
This realization has prompted him to reassess his approach as he prepares for the upcoming 2027 elections, aiming to balance his campaign ideals with the realities of the electoral process.