Roger Whittaker, Artist Behind 'My Land Is Kenya' Song Dies at 87

Kenyan-born British folk and country singer Roger Whittaker has died at the age of 87.

Whittaker gained worldwide fame with hits like Durham Town, The Last Farewell, and New World in the Morning. Though born in Nairobi in 1936, Whittaker's parents hailed from Staffordshire, England. He began singing and writing songs while studying medicine and 18 months later he bowed out of med school and delved into education instead. Whittaker's musical career began after he sent a demo track to a music publisher while studying at the University of Bangor in Wales.

As a student, he gained popularity on the radio and his career advanced with opportunities in television. He later gained popularity in Germany for his ability to sing in German and French and sold nearly 50 million records worldwide. According to recent reports, Whittaker suffered a stroke which resulted in his untimely passing.

Despite the efforts of medical professionals, Whittaker's sunset years were marred by declining health. He had undergone multiple surgeries and experienced heart and stomach issues. Undoubtedly, Kenya's fans of folk and country music will remember Whittaker for his masterpiece, "My Land is Kenya." In this poignant piece, he expresses his profound love and adoration for his native country. He graciously depicted the beauty and magnificence of its land, people, and cultural heritage, highlighting Kenya's painful fight for independence against colonial rule.

The lyrics capture the magnificence of the landscapes in Kenya, portraying the varied beauty of flourishing wildlife, a testament to Kenya's naturally captivating essence. With eloquent articulation, Whittaker's voice transports the listener into the realm of the vivid imagery of fierce lions, elegant giraffes, and gleaming sunsets.

Throughout the stanzas, the memorable line from the chorus, “You'll always stay with me here in my heart,” acts as a constant reminder to the Kenyan diaspora that though they may travel to other places, Kenya will undoubtedly remain their home.