Tag: Chimano news

Vocalist Willis Chimano has shared the story of how Sauti Sol transitioned from earning modest amounts on their first European tour to making their first million shillings.

During their early days, Sauti Sol embarked on their debut European tour after signing with their first record label, which also produced their first two albums. Chimano recalled that the value of their record deal was about one million shillings in euros at the time—a significant sum for the group, who were in their 20s.

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Their first European tour took them to Amsterdam, where they stayed for three months. Living on a tight budget, the four band members survived on €50 (Sh6,800) per week. “We shopped at the cheapest stores and stretched what we had for the whole week,” Chimano recalled.

One of their earliest gigs was at an elderly care home, performing for residents, many of whom were in wheelchairs or using walkers. “They paid us €100 to €150 per show (Sh14,000-Sh20,000). We accepted it because we were in hustle mode, knowing it was a stepping stone to something greater,” Chimano said. At the time, the band had no major hits and was simply seen as an African band performing in Europe.

 

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However, things changed after they returned to Kenya from their 2009 European tour. By 2013, Sauti Sol landed a life-changing opportunity when they joined Safaricom Twaweza Live, a seven-month campaign that included concerts across the country. The initiative not only nurtured local talent but also allowed the band to earn their first millions.

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Chimano Speaks On Music Hiatus, Says He Is Refueling For A Strong Return

“When we signed up for Safaricom Live, our lives changed because of the money we received. That was the first time we saw a few million shillings,” Chimano shared. For the first time, each band member began receiving a salary of Sh150,000, while Sauti Sol Entertainment, treated as the fifth member, also earned a share.

Chimano used his first big paycheck to purchase a blue Toyota IST for Sh700,000, describing it as a proud moment.

The band, now on an indefinite hiatus, has since become one of Kenya’s most iconic musical groups, but Chimano’s reflection underscores their humble beginnings and the challenges they overcame to achieve success.

Former Sauti Sol member, Chimano, has officially announced his solo music career. The singer-songwriter shared the exciting news on his social media, marking a new chapter in his musical journey.

After years of making music as part of the celebrated Kenyan boy band, Chimano expressed gratitude for his time with Sauti Sol but revealed his readiness to explore new musical horizons. His debut solo single, titled “Do You Remember,” is set for release on August 9th.

Here we go; my new journey begins… I’m so grateful for how far life has brought me. I’ve lived for 37 years, and what a ride it has been! My previous chapter defined and filled me, but like a chapter read, we finished reading that one, and it’s time to turn a new page. I’m not only grateful to still be able to share my voice—an amazing God-given gift. With chimandems, now we get to build community—do us, thrive, and rise on our own terms.

In a heartfelt message to his fans, Chimano emphasized his excitement for this new chapter and invited his supporters to join him on this musical adventure.

Being part of @sautisol was the greatest privilege of my life, and now I’m off on this amazing journey that I’m looking forward to. “Do You Remember?” is my first single and a lead-up to a number of releases I plan for the year. So, legooo, Chimano, as an individual, is a new artist. See you on the 9th of August, and then on and on and on.

The announcement comes after Sauti Sol’s decision to take an indefinite hiatus last year, allowing each member to pursue individual projects. It appears hawatarudiana tu as many were anticipating

Former Sauti Sol member Chimano has shared why he’s on hiatus despite being one of the immensely talented singers among Sauti Sol boy-band.

Chimano shared the latter during Savara’s EP launch event, opening up about his decision to take a break from music.

A Time to Recharge

Chimano explained his break as a chance to reset and return with renewed energy.

“I’m taking a break until I’m ready,” he said. “I need this time to figure things out and come back even better.” He likened it to needing to “decompose a bit” before a creative rebirth.

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Rediscovering the Love

Despite the break, Chimano revealed a surprising benefit. “This break is actually making me fall back in love with music again,” he admitted. He’s been honing his craft and hinted at a return that won’t be far off.

A Multifaceted Artist

“I’m working on a lot of exciting things,” Chimano teased, mentioning “niches” he’s exploring. Fans can expect a well-rounded return that showcases his diverse talents.

A Promise to Fans

Chimano reassured fans that his break doesn’t signal retirement.

“I’ll definitely be back soon enough,” he promised. “This is just a chance to reset and come back stronger.”

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Solo Success

The interview also highlighted Chimano’s independent work outside of Sauti Sol. He has his own EP with nine tracks, including hits like “Friday Feeling” and “Hallelujah.”

Enthusiastic presenter Mwalimu Rachel has shared the story of how Sauti Sol influenced one of their members to resign from his position as a radio presenter.

In the early days before the band gained widespread recognition, Willis Chimano, a member of Sauti Sol, worked as a radio presenter at Homeboyz Radio.

Chimano, who openly identified as gay, co-hosted a show with Mwalimu Rachel and singer Dela Maranga.

According to comedian Mwalimu Rachel, Chimano had become the favorite of the radio station boss, John Rabar, due to his captivating voice and eloquence.

Just when it seemed like Chimano would continue to thrive on the radio, Sauti Sol compelled him to step down.

“Chimano was the golden boy of Homeboyz Radio because of his golden voice. He would talk on the mic and you fall in love; our boss loved him,” recounted Mwalimu Rachel.

However, one day, Chimano showed up at work and informed his colleagues and the boss that he was resigning.

“He said he was in a band of four people, and his band told him to choose between radio and them, and he chose music.”

Despite the encouragement from Mwalimu Rachel and other colleagues to stay, Chimano was resolute.

“We told him not to do it, but Chimano said he had to follow his heart. One month later, while watching The Beat, we saw Chimano singing Lazizi on TV. He became big from there; it was such a gamble, and it paid off,” added Mwalimu Rachel.