Naiboi drops highly-anticipated debut EP “OTERO”

2in1 hitmaker Naiboi can’t keep calm after dropping his highly-anticipated debut EP Otero; and yes, it was definitely worth the wait judging from his line up.

The singer who recently opened revealing why he hasn’t released any new music in 2 years; has now left fans and critics buzzing over his new project as it continues to get recognition by online fans.

Also read: Naiboi finally free to release his first project after 2 years of having his ‘hands tied’

Back with a bang, Naiboi set to release Otero EP

So far we understand that the 10- track was EP produced by Bass Man and Naiboi with additional production by jazzybass beats; and hamado features some of the best talents in East Africa: Nyashinski, AY, Femi One,truth254 and Dairro from Jamaica included.

To celebrate the career milestone, Naiboi opens up saying;

“For the love of music I sing, for the love of the game, I rap”.

Featuring Top known artistes

As y’all already know, the EP has featured some top artistes who brought in different flavors to this anticipated album.

"Mmoja"

‘Mkono Kwa Wall’ featuring Dairo is an up beat that will get you grooving and bumping to the beat whenever it comes up.

‘Ready’ featuring Tanzania’s star AY will bring you that feel-good mood with the energy driven

‘Tender Love’, on the other hand, crafted poetically, officially introduces the love feel to the album as ‘Mali’ and Monicah are all about beautiful women; the kind that one cannot afford to loose and has Naiboi going above and beyond.

While ‘Mali’ stresses the standards that have Naiboi working extra to have her, Monicah expresses the joys of being with her and loving the feel.

With such a lineup; it’s obvious to see that Naiboi put in some good effort to recover the 2 years he has been MIA in the music scene.

Kenyan artists are mining gold hosting live shows, and not stopping even after the pandemic

Hollywood star Idris Elba proved his prowess away from the screen to host an electric live show tagged Africa Day Benefit Concert @ Home in celebration of Africa Day, on 25th May 2020. The concert was break from the normal, thanks to changing times occasioned by the global Covid-19 pandemic.

The exclusively African show was awash with a stellar cast of regional celebrities to make the online concert a digital musical talent footprint. In normal times, this cast would have graced the red carpet in the characteristic VIP treatment vibe, but well, times change.

Idris Elba had a terrific time hosting stars Bebe Cool, Yemi Alade, Sauti Sol, Burna Bwoy amongst others. Also making an appearance was South African stand-up comedian and TV host, Trevor Noah.

Closer home, Kenyan stars have had to re-package their brands to remain relevant in the dynamic industry. In the earlier times physical shows and concerts would give an artist instant feedback from their fans, but would be a handicap of sorts – their fan base would be restricted. Only the artists familiar with their work would be available.

A live, online show has a greater reach. An artist easily interests and captures followers beyond their normal fan base. This is great, especially post-pandemic with promise of sold out shows inclusive of the new following achieved in live YouTube and IG shows.

In Kenya, it’s hard to credit the most memorable live show. The list is impressive. They have had to learn on the job – there’s no handbook to learn from!

Music fans have been treated to the One Day Concert, by the eclectic performing artist Juliani. This show had a striking ‘Fight Inequality – Fight Covid-19’ theme. Another regular concert that took refuge online is the iconic Koroga Festival on Sunday 24th, which featured artists Zzero Sufuri and the Boondock’s Gang, live.

Yemi Alade
Yemi Alade

The perennial star Nyashinski has made a mark with his IG show. The Decimal Chronicles concert tagged the ‘Curfew Edition’ was lit, notably songstress Bridget Blue kicking it off with her single, Cheza.

Naiboi has teamed up with Avril, and H_Art the Band live on diverse dates and kept their followers on their toes. With such talent and vigor seen with Naiboi, the energy seeps right through the digital barriers.

Besides the music stars, celebrated mix-master DJ Bash became the first Kenyan entertainer to do a 24-hr live IG show. That’s previously unseen on these shores – uninterrupted, sizzling performance.

In this industry, things and trends change in an instant. Regardless of how things get after the global pandemic is brought under control, the live shows by our artists will be to stay. They’ve timely uncovered a hitherto-ignored digital gold mine, and its infinite possibilities.

Naiboi is ahead of his time

Michael Kennedy Claver, better known as Naiboi, is without a doubt one of the few music geniuses that we have in the country at the moment. If you ask me, I’ll tell you that he’s way ahead of his time.

Also read: Naiboi has really slowed down lately

I have to admit that I was a little bit worried when I realized that the Pacho Records founder didn’t have a song whose success can be compared to 2018’s 2 in 1 then Sondeka All Stars Remix happened.

Naiboi
Naiboi

If you look at the artists who were featured on the song, from the new-age acts to those who have been in the game for longer, then you’ll appreciate Naiboi’s ingenuity.

Just like 2 in 1 – which was made up of short videos of celebrities singing along to the song – Sondeka All Stars Remix features artists who are constantly on the lips of Kenyans.

They are; Fena Gitu, Mordecai of H_art The Band, Visita, Benzema of Ochunglo Family, Kristoff, Ex Ray of Boondocks Gang, Femi One and Khaligraph Jones.

Khaligraph Jones
Khaligraph Jones

Chances are, your favourite artist(s) is among the aforementioned names and this will make you listen to the song, and when you do you’ll realize that it’s actually a masterpiece.

To prove that the project was a brilliant idea, it has not only clocked 300,000 views, which is really good, but it has also been on the top 5 trending songs since it was released.

Naiboi just doesn’t release music like most local artists, every step is well-thought-out and the end result is always amazing.

I don’t know what he is planning next but I can tell you for free that it will be unique and you will be left asking for more. Established artists who are struggling to stay afloat should take a cue form him.

Listen to Sondeka All Stars Remix below and tell us what you think.

Hit after hit! Young singer Kaydexx taking over the music industry with Isabella featuring Naiboi

Singer Kayode Micheal popularly known as Kaydexx is not only known for his fine looks but also talented vocals that would make any woman look his way!

Although he is Nigerian, the singer has been taking over the Kenyan entertainment industry with his songs! Well, after being MIA for a while Kaydexx is back with a new hit dubbed Isabella!

Singer Kaydexx

Just like any other club banger, Isabella is undeniably what his African fans were anticipating for before he finally served it on his YouTube channel just a few days ago.

Kaydexx the brand

The song not only has banging beats but well written lyrics that could easily make anyone believe he is poetic!

Nigerian singer Kaydex

Unlike most artists, Kaydex has identified his target audience; and every now and then he makes sure that all his female fans feel appreciated and loved through his music!

Anyway, below is the audio on his IG bio released just a few weeks ago!

https://instagram.com/iamkaydexx?igshid=1xmyrerf9manl

Kagwe Mungai brings Naiboi on board for sizzling tune tagged ‘Nakulike’ (Video)

Talented musician and producer Kagwe Mungai has released the video for his collabo with Sondeka hitmaker Naiboi titled Nakulike and we love it.

Also read: Naiboi has really slowed down lately

The jam is the second single off his album dubbed Spectrum which was launched at The Alchemist sometime in 2019 and if you ask me, it is his best project to this day.

Naiboi
Naiboi

If there is a word that that best describes this song then it is infectious, it the kind of songs that you just want to keep listening to while thinking about a particular person, maybe your crush, maybe your ex.

Nakulike is a Sheng word that means I like you and as you can already tell, this jam is a dedication to that one person that you can’t get enough of. We all have that one person that is giving us sleepless nights, don’t we?

It encourages you to slide into that DM and shoot your shot because maybe, just maybe the other person likes you as much as you like them. The keyword is maybe.

Both Kagwe Mungai and Naiboi really came through on this track. To be honest, we were not expecting anything less and they both aced it. While the former stood out because of his voice, the latter had some dope wordplay.

Kagwe Mungai
Kagwe Mungai

Notably this track also has an impeccable beat. It’s so damn catchy. However, this does not come as a surprise seeing as it was produced by Kagwe himself. He did a good job ladies and gentlemen.

The other thing that I loved about this joint is the video. It is a unique concept and it stars the one and only Michelle Ntalami who drops her fire moves on the dance floor. If I was you, I’d skip to 2:35 right now. You’re welcome.

Watch Nakulike below and tell us what you think.

Is Naiboi’s new jam ‘Makasiriko’ a diss track to Avril Nyambura? (Audio)

To be honest, I haven’t come across a song by Michael Clevar Odhiambo, alias Naiboi, that I didn’t like after listening to it for the very first time and by the look of things I’m not about to.

Also read: Naiboi is way ahead of his time

A few hours ago, the Pacho Records founder released a new track and it is getting a lot of love from his fans. Even his agree that he outdid himself this time around.

The song is titled Makasikiro and it is basically how he does not want getting mad at him or hating him for no reason at all. All that Naiboi is after in this new decade is happiness.

Avril Nyambura

As I was listening to this jam, I kind of felt like it is a diss track to Judith Nyambura, alias Avril, because as you all are aware the the two do not see eye because she declined a request to appear in his 2 in 1 video.

The Kitoko hit maker said that she had been hospitalized around the time when different celebrities were submitting their videos to Naiboi so she could not send hers but he didn’t want to hear any of that, so he called her out.

A few days ago, Naiboi renewed his attack on Avril saying he was willing to work with any other Kenyan female artist other than Avril. And then bam, he dropped a new song called Makasiriko.

I am starting to think that its just a publicity stunt but who cares? Naiboi has treated us to an catchy track and that is all that matters. I have been listening to it on replay since it came out a few hours ago and I still love it.

Naiboi
Naiboi

Other than his great vocals, you have to admit that Naiboi has a unique ability to play around with words. He makes it look so easy.

Naiboi’s decision to include the viral clip of Former President Daniel Moi saying, “Kama yuko mtu ametukana mimi namsamehe, na kama yuko mtu ambaye nimesema chochote ambayo imeumiza roho yake, unisamehe.” was genius

The beat on this song is also impeccable. It slaps so hard, especially if you have good earphones or headphones. You will have it on replay for a long time, trust me. Props to Ilogos Music.

Watch Makasiriko below and tell us what you think. Enjoy.

Beef alert! Here is why you might never see a collaboration between Naiboi and Avril!

Naiboi and Avril have been having some ‘bad blood’ for years now and this is all because of hit song ‘2 in 1’ that Avril publicly refused to be part of.

Well, according to a screenshot attached his latest video where he is heard asking Kenyans to suggest a few Kenyan female artists he should work with expect Avril who he refuses to ever put out a project with.

Apparently during his 2 in 1 video shoot, Avril rudely refused to take part in the visuals – despite Naiboi asking her to step in like other fellow artists who came in handy.

Naiboi’s beef with Avril

In the video shared by the singer on his Instagram page, Naiboi goes on to attach a screenshot showing Avril’s response after she was asked why she was not featured on the popular song.

Naiboi’s post

Well, let me not call it pride but her response did not come out as expected…and I bet this is why Naiboi still can’t seem to let this matter go!

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7DbN4Mpclo/?igshid=kdqqv5p1di66

Band Beca’s new jam ‘Kionjo’ is a massive hit (Video)

Band Beca, the duo that is behind such as; Tonight, Brathe, Ride Or Die, is back with a new single after a long hiatus from the local entertainment scene.

The jam dubbed Kionjo, which is a Swahili word that means ‘taste’, has been getting massive airplay on local TV and radio stations since it was released a few days ago.

As you listen to the song, you’ll realize how much the group which is made up of Becky Sangolo and Carol Kamweru has grown since they made their debut circa 2016. They are on another level fam!

Band Beca
Band Beca

Their lyricism on this jam was really on point. Don’t even get me started on their melodious voices because we’ll talk about it until the cows come home.

Kionjo is essentially a feel good song and a club song at the same time. It gives you good vibes. From the moment you hit the play button, you know that it’s bout to get lit.

However, I must say that I was not really impressed by the beat which was produced by Rixx. Maybe it’s just me but I felt it was too lazy. If this song does not become a hit, he’s the man to blame.

The video concept was also dope. I don’t know why but as I was watching it, with all the sexiness in it, I kept thinking about Brick and Lace.  I would not be surprised if I found out that Band Beca looks up to them.

Watch Kionjo below and tell us what you think.

Kagwe Mungai has teamed up with Naiboi on ‘Nakulike’ and it slaps really hard (Audio)

Musician-cum-producer Kagwe Mungai has officially released the audio for his collabo with Naiboi titled Nakulike.

Also read: Naiboi has really slowed down lately

The song is the second single off his album dubbed Spectrum which was launched at The Alchemist early this year.

If there’s a word that that best describes this song then it is catchy, it the kind of songs that you just want to keep listening to while thinking about a particular person, maybe your crush, maybe your ex.

Nakulike is a Sheng word that means I like you and as you can tell, this jam is a dedication to that person that you can’t get enough of. We all have that one person that is giving us sleepless nights.

Kagwe Mungai
Kagwe Mungai

It encourages you to slide into that DM and shoot your shot because maybe, just maybe the other person likes you as much as you like them.

As expected, both Kagwe Mungai and Naiboi really came through on this jam. While the former nailed it with his voice, the latter had some dope wordplay.

His verse goes like,”Ah vile unanilike nakulike, got me singing about you on the mic no rehearsal putting my neck on the line, pale kwa DM nikislide kicommando, say you are a bad gal let me see more (buya) to my place my crib we can do more (buya) ushanikwachu mami no vitisho, iko alafu nakurelease…”

The other thing that struck me is the nice instrumental that was playing in the background. I couldn’t get enough of it.

Listen to Nakulike below and tell us what you think.

Magix Enga Vs Motif Di Don: Who is the baddest producer?

These days, almost every song begins with the words, “Motif Di Don” or “Magix Enga on the beat”. You would be tempted to think that the two are the only music producers in the country which is not the case.

Also read: Magix Enga has taken Kenyan music to the international stage

While the are are countless music producers in Kenya, the work of Magix Enga and Motif Di Don really stands out. They have a distinct approach and this explains why they are a cut above the rest and the most-sought after beat makers.

Motif Di Don
Motif Di Don

Each of them has worked with the biggest names in the entertainment industry and in a way they have helped propel the new Kenyan sound that made many people realize that they can actually enjoy local music.

Magix Enga has worked with the likes of Otile Brown, Timmy Tdat, Arrow Bwoy, KRG The Don, P-Unit, Zzero Sufuri, Ethic, Alvindo, King Kaka, Kristoff, Khaligraph Jones, Prezzo, Naiboi, Mejja, Rankaddah. The list is endless.

On the other hand, Motif Di Don has produced songs for Masauti, Ethic, Otile Brown, Khaligraph Jones, Masterpiece, Nadia Mukami, Qritical, Pro & Lava Lava and Rayvanny who are both Tanzanian singers.

If you are a fan of Kenyan music, like yours truly, then I’m sure you’ve seen your favourite local musician in the aforementioned names. What’s even more is that most of them are big acts which also means that Magix Enga and Motif Di Don are the baddest producers around.

Magix Enga
Magix Enga

In as much as they are both incredible and doing their very best to grow the local industry, at the end of the day, one of them has to be better than the other and that’s what I want to find out from you. I’d like to know your perspective of them.

So tell me, who do you think is the baddest producers between Magix Enga and Motif Di Don? Leave a comment below.

Naiboi has really slowed down lately

Kenyan singer Michael Claver Odhiambo, alias Naiboi, has really slowed down this year and this begs the question, is he okay? Has he lost his mojo? Is something big cooking?

You see, I’m such a huge fan of the Dinda hit maker. I always look forward to his releases but this year I feel like his latest music is tasteless, but then again I could be wrong. Maybe he has something big in the works and we have no clue.

Since the year began, Naiboi has released two songs namely; Somaga and Bungee Jump excluding collabos. If you have been his fan since way back, you’ll also agree that both songs are neither here nor there. Put simply, they are just flat.

It took 14 years for him to become a household name and when he finally did in 2017 we thought he would keep up the momentum, more so after he released 2 in 1 – a song that went on to become one of 2018’s biggest jams.

We are six months into the year. Well, you could say 7 because we only have a few  days to wrap up this month. The reason I’m worried is because Naiboi is yet to give us a hit. The only explanation could be that he’s working on something.

Naiboi
Naiboi

Or is that we expect too much from him? Should lower our expectations? Maybe, just maybe, he just got too comfortable after releasing 2 in 1. Maybe something big is cooking like I said before. I honestly don’t know.

Truth is, I really look forward to the day that he’ll treat us to another jam like Too Much, Smooth Criminal, Kidege, 4Mulla, I Wanna Be, Ding Dong, Dinda, Usipime Mwanaume, 2 in 1 because that is the Naiboi we all came to love and appreciate.

Sio Fresh; Matonya is back this time with Naiboi

Sio Fresh; Matonya is back this time with Naiboi. The Tanzanian bongo flava musician has been quiet for sometime. His teamed up with Kenyas Naiboi for sio Freshi. This video has been shot in Kenya. Matonya relocated to Kenya a while ago. Sio Fresh jam is an indication that he is still up for the industry.

Production

For a very long time, Matonya is known for his good work and this song is not an exception. His fans say that he has a vanilla flavor voice. The video was directed and shot by super talented East African video Director Tonee Blaze. Audio production was done by  Iconic from Vanila Records Kenya.  In addition to the good team work the whole production in sync.

Believe it or not, Naiboi is getting bigger day by day. He is being sort out by those who were in the industry long ago and this is doing justice for him.

Lyrics Delivery by Matonya and Naiboi

Also we look at how the lyrics are and the style used. The duo has done great work before in their separate ways. Coming together is a great deal since we see different talent and voices explored.

Sio Fresh’is a new tune in town that tells how someone feels when his love feelings and emotion are hijacked by a super dope woman when together fall in love but suddenly it the love goes ends unexpectedly hence the lady minds her business leaving the guy uncomfortable to bear with the situation.

This line is my favourite; Nihurumie, njoo unikinge kwa baridi sina mbawa. This shows that the guy needs the lady to feel warm. Who wouldn’t want this?

Further, the chorus brings out the title of the song ‘sio Freshi’. It simply means that it is not good.  All factors put into consideration the song gets a rating of 6/10.

Click on the link below to watch the full video.

Most Kenyan musicians don’t know their worth and it’s sad

Despite being super-talented and all, you’ll be shocked to learn that most Kenyan musicians don’t really understand their worth. This is a sad fact of life!

So, here’s the scenario, you are are dead broke despite being an accomplished musician. You’ve dropped three new singles since the year began.

To add to that  you have thousands of followers on your own social media pages, meaning you can easily pull crowds to a gig.

Naiboi
Naiboi

Someone, say a fraudulent promoter, approaches and asks you to perform at an out of town gig for Ksh. 10,000 and you agree because you need to sort out some bills and what not.

Who’s the fool here? Is it the promoter or the musician. It’s definitely the latter and I’ll explain why.

You see, Kenyan musicians should be aware of their worth and stop undervaluing themselves. When they accept paltry amounts for out of town gigs, they are unknowingly setting a bad precedence.

Event organizers are always in constant communication. If word goes around that you charge a certain amount for a performance, your rate card is set.

Nyashinski

The next time an event organizer calls the musician up, they will probably offer them the same amount or much less.

At the end of the day, a musician will be bitter for getting bad rates yet they are being offered such meagre amounts because of the precedence that they set. It’s your fault bro!

Musicians should know that it’s okay to turn down amounts they are not comfortable with and that their personal needs or debts should not come before their crafts.

If a musician  needs a manager to help them evaluate how much they are worth, they should go ahead and get one. It’s totally okay!

This way, they’ll get paid what they are worth.  The musician, will also be able to do more things. Instead of performing at many small gigs and being underpaid, just have one or two and get your worth.

Some of the musicians who have been smiling all the way to the bank because they understand their worth are the likes of Naiboi, Khaligraph, Sauti Sol, Otile Brown, Nameless, Avril, Fena Gitu, King Kaka, Octopizzo, Nyashinski, just to name a few.

Avril

If you’ve been wondering how come they always have a new song every now and then it’s because they are getting paid what they are worth.

Also read: Khaligraph’s performance fee has shot to 1 million bob per show and it’s totally okay

Kristoff’s new banger ‘Rainbow’ is proof of how much he’s grown over the years (Video)

Kristoff has really grown over the years. If you’ve been jamming to his music since he debuted in the local entertainment industry with his first single dubbed Let’s Play House, then you can attest to this.

Just like wine, Kristoff keeps getting better with time. In my opinion, 2018 was the best year in his music career. He released several hits, including Dundaing which was one of the biggest songs last year.

Just when we thought we had seen it all, Mluhya Wa Busia started the year on a high note. Since the year began, he has released two songs with Naiboi dubbed Bungee Jump and Somaga. Both songs have been performing well.

Just recently, Kristoff released his first solo project of the year dubbed Rainbow and it has been getting mad love, judging from the comments on YouTube. Most music fans can’t get enough of it.

Rainbow is about this beautiful lass who is driving Kristoff crazy. She makes him feel like he can do anything in this world. Put simply,  this song is a dedication to people who are in love.

As expected, Kristoff’s delivery is also on point. His lyrics are witty. As the song begins he says, “Mi ndio master wa head kama principal, onyesha kila kitu love baki visible, here we go, me and you we good to go mi natoa hater rangi basi hit the door.”

Kristoff
Kristoff

The beat, which was produced by Jack On The Beat, is also on point. It has this feel good vibe. You’ll just find yourself swaying your head from side to side.

The song’s video is also decent. However, this does not really come as a surprise seeing as it was directed by Kenny. Yup, he’s the same guy who directed Diamond’s Tetema.

Watch Rainbow below and tell us what you think. Get some good earphones for this.

Kenyan musicians have done so many collabos this year and we’re really impressed

Maybe you’ve noticed, maybe you haven’t but Kenyan musicians have dropped so many collabos since the year began. If you are a huge fan of local music, like yours truly, I’m you are also impressed.

For the first time in a long while, there’s something good to say about the local entertainment industry. We’re barely five months into the year and we’ve seen the most unexpected collabos. It’s such an exciting time to be alive.

Artist have not only realized the importance of doing collabos, they have also decided to step out of the comfort zones. On a light note, I’m pretty sure Kenyan musicians agreed that 2019 is the year of working together.

What I love most about this is that our artists are not only working with their fellow Kenyan musicians, they are also crossing borders and working with acts from Tanzania, Nigeria, Ghana and Jamaica.

The likes of rapper Khaligraph Jones have featured on four great collabos since we crossed over into 2019. The songs are; Japo Kidogo, Kiboko (Remix), Megarider (Remix), and Chukua Selfie which was a campaign but still counts.

Papa Jones aslo featured Nigerian rapper Ycee on Gwala which was released in January this year.

If you’ve noticed, Naiboi is also doing a lot of collabos this year. He has two songs with Kristoff, a song with Brown Mauzo. He was featured on Chukua Selfie. His new song with Vivian and Savara dubbed came out a few hours ago.

Arrow Bwoy has also been breaking his back when it comes to music collabos. He has a song with Demarco, another one with Cecile. He has also worked with Gabu and Jovial

Other artists who’ve dropped good collabos this year are; Willy Paul, Timmy Tdat, Nyashinki, Jua Cali, Avril, King Kaka, Mr Seed, The Kansoul, Rankaddah, Rankaddah, Mayonde, Ochunglo Family, just to name a few.

To say the least, I am impressed. I can’t help but imagine how many more great collabos we’ll see before the year ends. I hope this also serves as a wake up call to artists who have been shying away from collabos.

What are some of your favourite local collabos this year? Leave a comment below.

Vivian’s new collabo with Savara and Naiboi dubbed ‘Cheza Chini’ is so disappointing (Video)

I don’t know what’s worse between Vivian’s new collabo with Savara and Naiboi dubbed Cheza Chini or the terrible publicity stunt that she pulled on her fans days before she released the song.

Give me a chance to explain myself before you brand me a hater. You see, I am a huge fan of Vivian just like you. Without a doubt, she’s one of the most gifted female singers in Kenya. Her gift is her golden voice. She has this rare voice that is so sweet to the ears.

Perhaps this explains why she has a huge following. Well, she is also very beautiful. However, I feel like she is more known for her voice. Anyway, this is a story for another day. Isn’t it?

Vivian

The point is, Vivian is known for her vocal prowess. She also has a loyal legion of fans who are always looking forward to listing to her latest music. I occasionally see her songs on music TV shows which means she’s getting good airplay.

As such, I don’t understand why she had to do a publicity stunt days before releasing her collabo with Naiboi and Savara dubbed Cheza Chini. To make matters worse, the publicity stunt was so terrible.

Also read: Vivian’s hubby, Sam West gets jealous after intimate clip between wifey and Naiboi

On Friday last week, Vivian shared some screenshots of a WhatsApp group chat on her Facebook page and I believe that they were just stage managed just to hype the new song before it was released.

Apparently, Vivian’s husband, Sam West, was unhappy with how Naiboi was holding his partner in the video so much so that he asked them to re-edit the video before releasing it on April 29.

Sam West and Vivian

After all that drama, you would think that the song would be worth writing home about when it was finally released. It’s really not. It’s so lacklustre. Naiboi and Vivian’s parts just seem off. I was so disappointed when I first heard it.

However, Savara really did a good job on the hook. He almost saved this song. The hook, goes like “Cheza za chini usichome picha…kamejipa, cheza za chini usichome picha…kameshika.

Savara

Be that as it may, the song has a decent beat. It was produced by the one and only Cedric Njega, alias Rixx, The video, which was directed by Sammy Dee, is also good. The transitioning from one scene to another is also good.

Incase you are wondering, Naiboi and Vivian are still seen getting close in the video. The 2 in 1 hitmaker occasionally holds her around the waist.

Watch Cheza Chini here and tell us what you think.

Naiboi and Kristoff have dropped the video for their mega hit ‘Somaga’ and we’re really feeling it

After 15 years of nothing but sheer hardwork, Michael Clevar Odhiambo, alias Naiboi, finally got his big break in 2018 when he released 2 in 1.

2 in 1, which was made up of short clips of local celebs singing along to lyrics of the song, was one of the biggest jams in Kenya in 2018 alongside King Kaka’s Dundaing featuring Magix Enga and Ethic’s Lamba Lolo.

Naiboi, who was previously known as Rapdamu, caught the attention of many people when he released the song. He finally came to be recognized as one of the best musicians in the country.

Of course, he had released many songs before that. Some of them include; Problem, 4Mulla, Dinda, Smooth Criminal, I Wanna Be, Ding Dong, Too Much etc. However, none of these songs did well like 2 in 1.

Naiboi
Naiboi

Music fans finally accorded him the respect that he deserved. Naiboi was finally recognized for his work. Perhaps this motivated him as he has been putting a lot of work lately.

In the last few months he has released four new songs. These are; Keki, Usipime Mwanaume, Bungee Jump and Somaga whose video was released three days ago.

He teamed up with Kristoff for Somaga and you know what to expect when you hear these two names in one song. Even before you listen to the song, you get this feeling that your earbuds will not be disappointed.

The audio came out on February 25 and as you know, most music fans don’t take you seriously until you release a music video. So, Naiboi did the needful.

Somaga is about this beautiful lass who is always busy on her phone. Some guy is trying to get her attention but she never replies his messages. Instead, she talks to other people in her Insta DMs and WhatsApp messages. I know many of you can relate to this.

Kristoff

Kristoff a.k.a Mluhya Wa Busia really came through on Somaga. His voice is so unique and it adds this great vibe to the whole song. Let’s be honest, this song would be kind of flat without him. As such, it’s not a surprise that Kristoff is featured in many collabos. His voice adds flavour to a song.

The song’s chorus is easy to remember. It goes like, “When I’m with you now you are busy on your phone*2. Zako maWhatsApp, zako ma Insta. Nikituma ka DM yangu unapita. Asema zako Ma WhatsApp, zako ma Insta. Nikiskuma Ka DM, zangu unapita. Wewe bana, ah wewe nishakusomanga*4.

The star-studded video which was directed by VJ One is also on point, with smooth transitions from one scene to the next. The video featured a number of local celebrities including; Terrence Mwangi, Mammito, Jaymo Ule Msee, Annstellah Karimi etc.

Rixx really came through on the beat so much so that this song is somewhere between a club banger and a feel good song. You can’t really tell where it lies. All that is clear is that it’s such a good song.

Watch Somaga below and tell us what you think.

Timmy Dta, Naiboi and Brown Mauzo, Femi One, all have new songs Which one are you feeling?

Three top Kenyan artists and one from Tanzania have new sounds sets to take the airwaves.

Singer Timmy Tdat has teamed up with Tanzanian rapper Rosa Ree for their new hit ‘Kipopo’.

‘Kipopo’ is produced by Hamado while the video is directed by Enos Olik. It was shot on location at Ngong Hills Wind Farm and Alchemist Club Nairobi.

After a rather long hiatus, rapper Shiko Femione has released a brand new song dubbed ‘Hiyo One’. ‘Hiyo One’s has been produced by Prvke + The Other Guys while the crisp video is directed by Ricky Bekko of Big Dreams Films.

Watch it below:

R&B Kenyan sensation Brown Mauzo is also back with another hit following the release of ‘Mawazo’ a month ago. This time, the mellow singer has raked in Naiboi for his new released dubbed ‘Hakuna Kulala’.

Watch the video below:

https://youtu.be/cDhkiKRFzms

5 impossible music collabos we’d love to see before 2019 ends

A few days ago, Octopizzo revealed that he was willing to work with nemesis Khaligraph Jones if the song would line his pockets. Although the chances of this happening are close to zero, it got me thinking about other impossible collabos that we’d love to see.

You see, the essence of doing in a collabo is to grow an artist’s fanbase. For instance, Khaligraph’s fans would get to know about Octopizzo or appreciate his music and vice versa if the two artists ever do a collabo.

There’s also the obvious fact that two or more music greats are bound to create something magical if they ever work on a song together.

That being said, here’s our wish list of collabos:

1. Nyashinki and Otile Brown – After listening to Nyashinki and Juma Jux on Incase You Don’t Know, I couldn’t help but imagine what a Nyashinki and Otile Brown collabo would sound like. We are really looking forward to the day when they’ll give us a treat.

Nyashinki and Otile Brown

2. Arrow Bwoy and Vivian – This collabo should have happened a long time ago. I mean why not? Vivian’s smooth vocals would really blend well with Arrow Bwoy’s seductive dancehall sound. Get into studio guys!

Vivian and Arrow Bwoy

3. Sauti Sol and King Kaka – They may not see eye to eye but I’m sure you also get the feeling that a song by these great musicians would be nothing but pure bliss. You remember Sauti Sol’s collabo with Khaligraph dubbed Rewind? Think along those lines and then add King Kaka’s storytelling skills.

Sauti Sol and King Kaka

4. Nadia Mukami and Naiboi – I live for the day these two musicians will release a song together. Thinking about it just gives me goosebumps. If a collabo between Naiboi and Nadia comes to pass, it will be the biggest song in 2019. You want to bet?

Nadia Mukami & Naiboi

5. Masauti and Steph Kapela – Nothing beats a bongo-infused rap song. Absolutely nothing. It’s for this reason that I feel Masauti should do his next collabo with one of Kenya’s best emcees – Steph Kapela. What I love about Steph Kapela is that he is versatile, he could end up singing if they ever do a collabo.

Masauti and Steph Kapela

Which are some of the collabos that you’d like to see before the year ends? Leave a comment below.

Things can only get better for Naiboi from here

Kenyan singer Michael Clevar Odhiambo, alias Naiboi, has really come a long way. He is proof that sheer willpower and perseverance can take you from the bottom of the pie the top.

He made his debut in the local music industry in 2003 as Rapdamu but only came to be recognised in 2017 when he released Problem. That is 14 years of nothing but diligence and hardwork.

The Pacho Records founder doubled up as a producer and musician until five years ago when he decided to focus on one craft; music. He hired a couple of music producers to help him at his studio as he shifted his focus to becoming a household name.

This transition saw him ditch the name Rapdamu for Naiboi which he says was inspired by the need to fight for the Kenyan sound at a time when Nigerian music had taken place over local radio stations.

Naiboi
Naiboi

He released a couple of songs after his metamorphosis. Some of them include; Too Much, Smooth Criminal, Kidege, 4Mulla, I Wanna Be, Ding Dong and Dinda. However, none of these songs received massive airplay like 2 in 1.

2 in 1 was the biggest song in 2018 until King Kaka, Kristoff and Magix Enga released Dundaing and narrowly edged out Naiboi at the Pulse Music Video Awards (PMVA).

Before we wrapped up the year, Naiboi dropped another joint dubbed Usipime Mwanaume. As expected, the song was received well by his fans.

A few days ago, he released a new collabo with Kristoff titled Somaga and as is the norm, the song is getting massive airplay. This goes to show that things can only get better for him. Naiboi is a point where anything that he touches turns into gold. Quite literally!

Listen to Somaga below and tell us what you think.

“You believed in me when no one did” Check out Khaligraph Jones special message to Naiboi

Before Khaligraph Jones career picked up, he was just like most struggling artists making music with the hope of making it someday.

Judging from his photos taken during the time his career began; it is indeed clear to see that Brian Ouko aka khaligraph Jones was really struggling.

Well, for those who know how the music industry works in Kenya, will understand some of the struggles Khali faced. However in his case, at least he had a few producers giving him hope about making it big one day.

Naiboi and Khali’s friendship

Thanks to a post shared by Khaligraph Jones we understand that he has been friends with 2 in 1 maker, Naiboi for a long time now.

In the post shared on his Instagram page, we understand that Naiboi is among those who encouraged Khaligraph Jones not to give up hope. He stood with him probably supported each other in  one way or another. Anyway, read Khaligraph Jones post below.

I couldn’t bother getting my hair and makeup done to record a selfie for a music video after giving birth- Avril continues shredding Naiboi 

Nakuru’s finest Avril Nyambura has come out to explain further why she blue-ticked singer Naiboi after he requested her to make a cameo in his video, but never did the same to Otile Brown.

Naiboi wanted the singer to be in the viral song hit song “2 in 1” which artists basically sent a selfie video that was included in the song.

Naiboi went into his feelings after Avril failed to reply his message. Avril stated that she was in the hospital at the time when the singer requested after giving birth to her first born.

“Watched the video and you rocked! But you refused to do the 2 in 1 challenge yet Naiboi requested you to,” a fan asked her on Instagram.

“Yer I couldn’t was unfortunately in hospital…didn’t feel like getting into it with him… Let people do what they gotta do,” responded Avril.

Negativity

Speaking to Kiss FM, Avril gave a deeper explanation on why sending the video was such a hustle for her.

“Nothing much to elaborate really goes without saying that I was postpartum and readjusting to my new life. It’s sad that a couple of men, and unfortunately some women, wouldn’t understand that once a woman gives birth she needs some time to herself and her child, away from work, stress, pressure,” she said. 

“I was in that state at the time. Yes, I could not honestly be bothered to get my hair/makeup done to record a selfie for a music video while my entire being (emotional and physical) was trying to readjust. I found his comments to be in bad taste especially being in the state I was in so I just chose to block his negativity and not respond. Again goes without saying, I had someone more important who needed my attention.

 

 

Avril explains why she refused to appear in Naiboi’s video whereas she agreed to appear in Otile Brown’s new video

Rapper Naiboi was sad and depressed when fellow artistes Avril, Sanaipei Tande and Victoria Kimani refused to feature in his music video ‘2 in 1’.

The irony is that ‘2 in 1’ went on to become such a big hit after the ladies turned him down. The rapper said Avril and Sanaipei Tande politely declined his request to appear in his music video whereas Victoria Kimani simply ignored his request.

“Avril told me she was going to send, but I tried calling and my calls went unanswered. For her, I believe she might have not understood the idea, but at least she told me she was going to send, which she didn’t. It was a different case with Victoria. I called Sanaipei and she told me at the moment she can’t be in such a project, unless we have a project together. That makes sense to me, than someone blue-ticking me,” said Naiboi in a past interview.

Also read: Poor boy child! Rapper Naiboi still bitter with Victoria Kimani for snubbing him

Excuse or genuine reason?

Avril has appeared on Otile Brown’s new music video ‘Kenyan Girl’. The singer was among several other celebs who were featured in the video.

A curious fan confronted Avril on YouTube comment section about failing to appear in Naiboi’s video whereas she was featured in Otile Brown’s video.

“You refused to do 2 in 1 challenge yet Naiboi requested you to..” Josephin Elenah asked Avril.

To which Avril replied:

“yer I couldn’t was unfortunately in hospital…didn’t feel like getting into it with him .. let people do what they gotta do

 

Jalang’o to Naiboi: Before you pay the trip to Nigeria just remember the radio presenters who agreed to be in your video when Victoria Kimani turned you down

Rapper Naiboi probably forgets how the presenters he is now dissing greatly helped him even when fellow musicians failed to support him.

Several radio presenters appeared in Naiboi’s video ‘2 in 1’ when fellow musician Victoria Kimani turned him down when he approached her to appear in his video.

Also read: Poor boy child! Rapper Naiboi still bitter with Victoria Kimani for snubbing him

Well, Naiboi is among artistes condemning presenters for ‘lack of support’. The rapper has also offered to pay flight tickets for five extra Kenyan TV and radio presenters to be flown to Nigeria.

“So after making calls and confirming how serious the OG is about this i have decided i will pay for 5more so thats a total of 15. Lets make it a Real experience for them.
#respecttheOG,” wrote Naiboi.

Unappreciative

Jalang’o was quick to remind Naiboi how presenters came in handy when he was desperately begging for support while shooting video for his song ‘2 in 1’.

 

 

Naiboi lands collabo with Morgan Heritage after impressing during Diamond’s show

Singer Naiboi has enjoyed 2018 which has seen him grow in leaps and bounds and it seems his 2019 will be even better.

Formerly known as Rapdamu, Naiboi had some really good news for his fans in 2019, sharing that he’ll be working with Jamaican reggae group Morgan Heritage.

Impressed

According to the ‘2 in 1’ hitmaker, Morgan Heritage reached out to him after being wowed by his December 31st performance at Diamond Platnumz’ final edition of Wasafi Festival that took place at Uhuru Gardens.

“Getting a call from my brothers and telling me I caught their attention at the show and that they had to meet me, they love what I do and believe in what I stand for is just way beyond my imagination given that am a huge fan! @grampsmorgan gave me so much insight and advice from a global perspective that really opened up my thinking ??.” Naiboi posted on Instagram. 

Also Gramps Morgan also took to his Instagram to big up Naiboi confirming that the two are working on a hit.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BsKua6KFllK/?utm_source=ig_embed

https://www.instagram.com/p/BsIkKa3AZPA/?utm_source=ig_embed

Meet Naiboi’s beautiful wife and family that he has managed to keep under the wraps 

“Two in one” singer Naiboi has come a long way from just another artist to dominating the music industry.

The singer started his career around 2008 while calling himself Rapdamu and even managed to start Pacho Entertainment that has also produced top songs in Kenya.

Not much is known about Naiboi’s private life since he has chosen to keep his family matters away from the public.

Family

He has however shared photos of his family once in a while on Instagram especially during special occasion and he has one beautiful team.

Here are photos of his wife and kid that Kenyans haven’t’ seen before.