Swedish rapper Ken Ring to open music studios in Diani

Swedish rapper and businessman Ken Ring is finally set to open his music studios in Diani.

Ken Ring, who has Kenyan ties through his mother, has been quietly making moves in the region.

He started with MASA Music, an outfit that has been producing for Johnny Vigeti, and is now set to start making music through his own record label, Duara Music.

"It's a bit like a boy's dream," he posted on his Facebook. "Maybe building the boldest studio in East Africa if you talk about signals and frequencies. Sometimes things take time, but within two weeks my dream is coming true! The first three pictures are from today, the last is the plan we made for the studio. Starting this with my own label in Africa, @duaramusic, is really one of the last things on my bucket list in life."

Ken Ring, who recently turned 45, says he is set to retire from rapping after making his final record in Sweden.

He will now focus on music production, something he has always been passionate about, and has big plans for the African market.

Ken believes the current market is ripe for bigger commercialisation with new technology driving the demand for music higher in the region.

"I'm going to Sweden to enjoy the summer with the children and record the last track on the album with Viktor," he posted. "Then I'll take the first step towards taking over Africa's music industry. Today, Kenya is where Sweden was like 15 years ago. Streaming has just arrived here, and every day I see someone who just got Spotify. Over 200 million people speak Swahili. Music always wins, and that's something I can truly do. The Creation... This is where my career starts now, I'm like a child before Christmas Eve! Thanks to all the amazing people who are involved in building, developing, and shaping this. Big up to the team! Music is Life."

Duara Music recently tested the waters after releasing "Broski," featuring Johnny Vigeti alongside fellow rapper Elai.

The music was produced by Swedish producer Victor Ax, who has worked with international acts like Sean Price, D12, Mavado, and Saigon.