Tag: Sauti Sol news

Sauti Sol’s Polycarp Otieno and Lady Mandy officially welcome newborn (Video)

Posted on by Gloria Katunge

It marks roughly 9 months since Polycarp and wife Lady Mandy were expectant.

The pair gladly broke the news of a newborn on board on May 2. One who was going to be the first of Sauti Sol’s babies and who the 4 gents could not wait to welcome.

Also read: “Long neck, curves at the right places and with strings attached,” Sauti Sol’s Polycarp opens up on meeting his first love Cecilia (Video)

The clock kept ticking, with videos of the couple preparing those delicacies in their kitchen, at other times, Lady Mandy stepping out for couple of photoshoots, her belly gradually protruding as weeks went by but unsure of the set date, fans kept hoping that the D-day would eventually come.

Polycarp’s wife Lady Mandy heavily expectant

True to it, the day was but around the corner. The couple was speculated to be gracing the delivery room early last week but it backfired, however, that was only a window to greater things, one that has now become the reality.

Also read: Millions Sauti Sol lost because of COVID-19 (Video)

The D-day

Breaking the news during their interview yesterday with Churchill Ndambuki, Polycarp who was present for the first half, could not help but seem uneasy, constantly starring at his phone and keeping it close, waiting for that call that was forever going to change his life.

Polycarp Otieno and Lady Mandy finally welcome newborn

As the 5 engaged in a heated discussion coupled with a few light moments, Mwalimu Churchill interrupted before Polycarp revealed;

My wife is due any time, so I must be on the lookout.

Also read: Grisly road accident that nearly claimed Sauti Sol’s Bien Aime Baraza’s life (Video)

The excited band members, already started throwing in all sorts of names for the yet to be born baby, warning the guitarist and his wife against giving their kid a strange name, characteristic of people from his hometown.

The Sauti Sol band

For Polycarp, their baby’s gender or name was going to come as a surprise to the world. As he pulled the guitar strings jamming to their new album, for a bit of hype on the Midnight Train jam, the phone rang and good news was out, Lady Mandy had finally delivered.

Congratulations to the pair! Now let’s sit and wait for it to unfold.

Grisly road accident that nearly claimed Sauti Sol’s Bien Aime Baraza’s life (Video)

Posted on by David Kingsley

Not many people know this but Bien Aime Baraza, who is one quarter of Kenyan boy band Sauti Sol, nearly gave up the ghost after being involved in a horrific road accident in 2007.

Also read: Meet Sauti Sol’s Bien Aime’s little-known hot brother, Yuri (Photos)

The musician, who is largely seen as the face of the group, narrated his brush with death during last night’s episode of Churchill Show – which airs on NTV.

Sauti Sol’s lead vocalist, Bien Aime Baraza

Bien revealed that he was he was in the company of his sister, Bijoux, Wakamba Wawili and Wendy Kimani when a matatu hit him as he was crossing the road.

They had come from the studio and were heading to the stage to board a matatu when his sister alerted them about a matatu that was being driven carelessly.

When Bien turned around, the car was right in front of him and he was badly injured because it was too late for him to get out of the way.

Bien’s sister, Bijoux Baraza

“We were crossing the road at Tuskys Pioneer in town and heading to Railways when my sister warned us about an oncoming car. Before I knew it, he had really hit me,” he explained.

The driver then sped off after the accident and left him lying on the ground, without caring whether he had survived  or not.

“He hit me on my knees. I hit my face on the windshield. I just remember flying in the air. I woke up on the ground and found my sister trying to resuscitate me,” Bien added.

He was then taken to Nairobi Hospital where he discovered that he didn’t have 16 teeth when he looked at himself in the mirror. He also had glass, from the broken windshield, in his mouth.

Watch the video below.

Millions Sauti Sol lost because of COVID-19 (Video)

Posted on by Gloria Katunge

The advent of Coronavirus in Kenya came almost as good as a stamped confirmation that music artists were going to count big losses from performances, tours and bookings made globally due to the travel restrictions.

Probably no one saw it coming, so no one made prior plans on how to survive the pandemic and the heat we have since experienced from COVID-19 can never be fully described in words.

Also read: The untold story of how Sauti Sol’s Bien Aime’s flashy childhood turned into abject poverty in a split second (Video)

For popular Kenyan boy band, Sauti Sol, 2020 was going to be an almost complete turn over, in terms of their global reach and platforms they would grace with 25 scheduled shows in America and 15 in Europe, a promise that was only washed away soon as the Coronavirus was declared a pandemic globally.

Sauti Sol in Burundi

The Sol family was soon after called for an urgent meeting, as their manager, Anchie Ng’inga broke the news of cancellation of their shows from across the world. Sharing intimate details on the same, the 4 band members, divulged;

“This year, was going to be a wonderful year, we had already booked many gigs,” Chimano stated.

Willis Chimano opens up on being a socially awkward child

Also read: “I never felt like I belonged,” Sauti Sol’s Chimano opens up on being a socially awkward child (Video)

The Sol generation signees were going to have one of the most eyeopening events scheduled overseas but that was never going to come to pass. At least not in 2020.

“Bensoul was to go to Australia, but their tour was cancelled. That irritates me,” Savara Mudigi continued.

Vocalist, producer and drummer, Delvin ‘Savara’ Mudigi

For Chimano, his trip to Australia was one he could not wait for, years and counting but just as his vision was about to come to pass, darkness struck.

“Sauti Sol had a tour planned for the States and for Europe. 25 shows in America and 15 shows in Europe,” Bien Aime revealed.

Sauti Sol’s lead vocalist, Bien Aime Alusa Baraza

That statement by Bien already tells you that were the shows to go down as planned, millions would have been made out of it but as we speak, they can only cry foul. Funny thing is, tickets got sold out in 24 hours, that was going to be the first show of such magnitude.

“Tickets were sold out within a day! I mean, that has never happened to us. And for a place like London,” Polycarp Otieno closed in.

Polycarp and wife Lady Mandy keeping it casual

The big question they were left asking is: What next? Have a listen, courtesy of Sol Generation TV;

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: Blacowp, fast-rising star who’s disrupting the Kenyan music industry

Posted on by Brian Onyango

I recently had a chat with a fast-rising musician by the name Samuel Birech, better known as Blacowp and I thought you should also get to know about him because he makes dope music.

Blacowp fell in love with music at the tender age of 5 and he says that his mother used to take videos of him singing along to the songs that she would play on the stereo, little did he know that it would blossom into a career.

Blacowp

He says that Kenyan boy band Sauti Sol has had a big influence on him. When he was young, he really looked up to them and he still does. Blacowp also says that the ‘King of Pop’ Michael Jackson inspires him.

A few days ago, he released his first official single titled Dreamscape and the song, which talks about seeking a world that does not really exist to escape from reality, has been getting good reception.

I’ve had this jam on repeat since I heard it for the first time because it’s well put together. Blacowp’s vocals and flow are really on point. The beat, which was mastered by Forty Studios, also slaps so hard.

Blacowp

To be honest, I also love the video for Dreamscape, although the concept is simple, the execution was above par. We have to give it to the director – Bizi B.

I asked Blacowp about his future plans and he told me that he would love to work with Khaligraph Jones, Sauti Sol, Diamond Platnumz, Victoria Kimani, Fena Gitu and Tanasha Donna.

He also wants to keep his unique sound so that some day an upcoming artist can look at him and laud the role that he played in the music industry.

Blacowp is definitely destined for greatness and it’s only a matter of time before the country, and maybe the whole continent gets to know about him.

Watch Dreamscape below and tell us what you think.

“I never felt like I belonged,” Sauti Sol’s Chimano opens up on being a socially awkward child (Video)

Posted on by Gloria Katunge

Willis Chimano was recently introduced to the world from a completely different angle unlike what many probably presumed of him. And what masses don’t know is that this did not start yesterday, if anything, his younger days, formed the socially awkward personality he exhibits today.

Also read: 8 times Chimano has openly paraded his feminine side on social media (Photos)

Like every other African home perhaps, Willis was born to staunch Christian parents, who strived to ensure him and his three siblings had everything they needed but also strongly founded them deep into the Christian faith. Education was one thing that was accorded in the family of 6 and eventually, it bore the 4 children a good future.

Kenya’s acclaimed boy band, Sauti Sol

Molding from his childhood

Despite having it all seemed figured out, Chimano was that one child who struggled to get through his school years; right from primary to high school and eventually campus. He was never the socially active child when he could have the luxury of being by himself, lost in his own thoughts and enjoying his own company. No!

Growing up, I considered myself a very awkward child, I used to find it tasking to make friends and I would occasionally lean over the wall of a then one-bedroom and just stare at the multitude of children playing. I was this teenage boy who never felt like they belonged, I was a very subdued child.

Also read: Revealed! How Sauti Sol’s Polycarp and his wife met in a case of mistaken identity (Video)

Willis Chimano opens up on being a socially awkward child

Bold sense of fashion explained

His sense of fashion that seems awkward today was majorly influenced by his childhood days. When he would relate better with his mom’s wardrobe that that of his dad who never allowed him into his closet. Chimano grew up not to live by society’s set standards but in altering the direction of flow against the tides. He was never one to conform.

Today all I think about is my closet space. In hindsight, I remember helping my mum pick her clothes out, but my dad for some reason never let me go through his closet. For me, it’s all about challenging toxic masculinity and I love it.

Sauti Sol’s Chimano serving looks with his fur!

Today, he works on giving out the same energy he receives, preserving the most for his loved ones and those who play a major role in his growth. The Sauti Sol band member believes in ‘being yourself’ as the truest form of expression.

I’m proud of the man that I’m becoming and I have no regrets whatsoever.

Have a listen, courtesy of Engage Talk forum;

Revealed! How Sauti Sol’s Polycarp and his wife met in a case of mistaken identity (Video)

Posted on by Gloria Katunge

A lot has been said around Sauti Sol’s three gentlemen but very little background has been given on how Polycarp Otieno and Lady Mandy crossed paths. A couple who tied the knot in an elegant private white wedding at Nanyuki’s luxury Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club in November 2018.

Also read: Watch: Sauti Sol Polycarp’s wife’s cute baby bump video cracking ribs online

That was 3 months after their traditional wedding that was held in Bujumbura, Burundi, Lady Mandy’s motherland. 2 years down the line and the pair is expectant with their first child, baby’s identity yet to be disclosed but from the photos doing the rounds, a dear Mandy is not so far from gracing the delivery room.

Polycarp Otieno and Lady Mandy at their maternity photoshoot

Also read: Wedding bells? Sauti Sol’s Chimano finally introduces his mzungu bae! (Photo)

The meet

The tales of meeting at an event and exchanging numbers, had a little twist for Polycarp and his Burundi babe. These two met in an interesting way. It was at work, back in 2011 during an event in which Camp Mulla were part of and Lady Mandy at the time, was managing the hip hop group while Fancy Fingers handled the finances.

“So I was the one receiving the cheques,” Polycarp Otieno shared.

Lovebirds, Polycarp Otieno and Lady Mandy killing the looks at an event

So what happened, after the event, there were 2 different cheques, one for Lady Mandy and the other for Polycarp but they swooped mistakenly. Polycarp ended up picking the one meant for Lady Mandy and vice versa, and then called it a night. Remember, these two weren’t as close at the time of the exchange.

“So our cheques were exchanged, he ended up DMing me on Twitter,” Lady Mandy added.

Also read: Sauti Sol’s Savara shows off the palatial mansion where he lives with his sexy girlfriend (Video)

Power couple, Polycarp Otieno and Lady Mandy taking the looks to another level

The meet turned love affair

After getting home and realizing this was a case of mistaken identity, the artist DMed Lady Mandy on Twitter regards the slight confusion so that they can re-swoop. After a chat, these two had to meet up and do the necessary, but there was a hiccup;

“I remember us meeting and we didn’t really talk much coz she was kinda shy, I was also shy,” Polycarp revealed.

Polycarp and wife Lady Mandy keeping it casual

Meanwhile, Lady Mandy who had been eyeing Polycarp for a while now, had to keep a bold face and pretend she wasn’t even bothered.

“I was a huge fan, but who is me? Girl you gotta keep it together!”

At the end, as they exchanged cheques, so did they exchange numbers. The rest, they say is history but that was a good one! Have a listen;

https://www.instagram.com/p/CD9aSO1Jitp/

There you have it! Now let’s wait for the little baby…

“You gave me alot of sh!t,” Muthoni Drummer Queen blasts Sauti Sol for being rude and immature (Video)

Posted on by Gloria Katunge

Muthoni Drummer Queen is a force to reckon with in the Kenyan music scene, the giant behind Africa Nouveau and Blankets & Wine in East Africa.

Also read: Wedding bells? Sauti Sol’s Chimano finally introduces his mzungu bae! (Photo)

It started like a joke for her, until it struck her one morning that ‘Blankets & Wine’ could actually be more than just her small circle of friends. Just like that Blankets & Wine was born in 2008.

Kenyan rapper, percussionist producer and entrepreneur, Muthoni Drummer Queen

Also read: Chimano responds to online criticism shortly after introducing mzungu boyfriend

Her aim being one; to give local talent a platform to showcase what they’ve got. “Kenya first!” was her driving motto.

One of Blankets and Wine events in Kenya

6 years later, her vision had blown up to receive massive recognition outside Kenya – something that wasn’t her intended goal.

Also read: Sauti Sol’s Savara shows off the palatial mansion where he lives with his sexy girlfriend (Video)

She decided it was time to re-evaluate.

The collision

Blankets & Wine faced massive backlash after the turn over and that is how Muthoni and Sauti Sol clashed. Turns out Sauti Sol had been invited for a night gig in early 2014, where they would perform with South Africa-based trio, Mi Casa.

“We felt like Sauti Sol had come to a point in their career where they were bonafide headliners. So Saturday night would be Mi Casa and Sauti Sol who would close the night, ” Muthoni Drummer Queen said.

Johannesburg, South Africa-based house trio, Mi Casa

Intentions Sauti Sol misinterpreted instead, getting the impression they were being undermined.

“What Sauti Sol understood is that we’ve put them sort of like the DJ who plays after the main act. What we meant with a lot of love and admiration, they took it like we were trying to sabotage them. They came through on Saturday and they gave us a lot of sh!t,” the Blankets&Wine CEO continued.

Kenyan virtuoso band, Sauti Sol

This hurt her badly;

That night was a very hurtful experience, you guys [Sauti Sol] actually genuinely owe me an apology even as we’re friends.

https://youtu.be/YrhH4ToY8Z8?list=PLY82RVylbju3bkK_ya_PD0w0690w9Loi2&t=397

The apology

The news got to Sauti Sol soon enough, responding;

Sauti Sol’s Bien apologizes to Muthoni the Drummer Queen

A dear Muthoni acknowledged the apology affirming that the Blankets&Wine team had duly received it as well.

Muthoni Drummer Queen responds to Bien Aime’s apology

Well, that is now as good as settled!

Sauti Sol’s Savara shows off the palatial mansion where he lives with his sexy girlfriend (Video)

Posted on by Brian Onyango

Savara Mudigi, who is one of the four members of award-winning Kenyan boy band Sauti Sol, recently gave his fans a deeper peek into his private life as he gave them a virtual tour of the house that he shares with his girlfriend.

Also read: Sauti Sol’s Savara scolds Khaligraph for always ‘begging’ for money (Video)

The singer and his beau, Yvonne Anyango Endo, were featured on the 3rd episode of Sauti Sol’s reality show dubbed Sol Family where they revealed how they met, what they love about each other and whatnot.

Savara Mudigi with his girlfriend Yvonne Endo

Apparently, they bumped into each other at Africa Noveau Festival where Savara lied to her that he’s a stripper. They later exchanged numbers and as as they say, the rest is history.

“I was just making rounds at the event when I saw her and her sister. I was a little bit tipsy and emotions kicked in so I approached her and asked her what her name is,” Savara explained.

Reports indicate that the two have been dating for about two years but it was not until recently when the musician let the cat out of the bag.

While Savara and Yvonne’s love life is adorable, what caught people’s attention is the own compound house that they live in. However, we don’t know the location as of yet. Sol Family airs on Maisha Magic Plus on Sundays at 7pm.

Watch the video below and be the judge.

Watch: Sauti Sol Polycarp’s wife’s cute baby bump video cracking ribs online

Posted on by Gloria Katunge

The Sauti Sol boy band is about to welcome their first baby in a few weeks and the team just can’t keep calm.

The band’s guitarist, Polycarp Otieno was the first to make a step towards starting a family with his wife Lady Mandy whom she wedded in November 2018.

Also read: The iconic Sauti Sol’s story is set to premier on Maisha Magic Plus, on the Sol Family Show!

Mr and Mrs Polycarp Otieno

This is going to be the couple’s first child as well as the music group’s first.

Also read: Malindi staycation: 10 videos from Betty Kyallo and sisters’ vacay that prove they can be wild away from home

Mandy has been holding on to her baby bump that keeps growing bigger and heavier by the day and it seems she is not far from gracing the delivery room.

Polycarp Otieno and wife Lady Mandy expectant

The team recently had a moment to come together and have some feel of the protruding belly and the session was crazy.

Also read: Kenyan artists have so much to learn from Sauti Sol’s forthcoming reality show

Polycarp who had probably touched the baby bump numerous times, just to feel the unborn baby kick, kept his distance, capturing the adorable moment as Savara and Chimano kept Lady Mandy’s baby bump company.

Willis Chimano with Polycarp’s expectant wife

From a distance, we can see the two artists shy away from holding and feeling the baby bump, seeming like a mystery to them and something out of this world.

Mouths agape, sitted by the edge of the seat and just trying to imagine what it is like in there. Meanwhile, Lady Mandy had slouched back on the couch to allow the two have their moment.

They take turns in feeling the baby bump before it’s Savara’s turn and the baby kicks and the artist quickly jerks back because it’s just unbelievable.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CDiejuLpK-E/

Mixed reactions

This left fans cracking their ribs expressing:

humphrey_drummer_junior

Hizo reactions ni priceless yani ????????

sowairina It really is miraculous isn’t it????♥️and also I’m seeing two????????????????is there something you’re not telling us????
elsierella

Their reactions are so adorable! True brothers! Congratulations ❤️

ebony_africa

I swear it’s the best feeling ever! A miracle

njeri9595

Aki mko na wanna????????????awa wasee wanaeza lala wakiskiza mtoi aki bt i can feel the kafeeling furaha tele❤️????

Kenyan artists have so much to learn from Sauti Sol’s forthcoming reality show

Posted on by Ozymandias

Award-winning Kenyan band Sauti Sol, who are currently topping charts with their fifth studio album Midnight Train, will launch their reality show Sol Family on Maisha Magic Plus on Sunday, August 2.

Also read: Believe it or not, Sauti Sol is saving the Kenyan music industry

According to sources, 13-part series will showcase the band’s musical journey while taking a glimpse into the personal lives of band members i.e Bien, Chimano, Polycarp and Savara.

Sauti Sol

Although the show is meant to entertain, I think there is a lot that Kenyans, especially artists can learn from it.

The band has been together for more than 15 years, they have stood the test of time unlike most Kenyan groups that break up after a few years. One would be curious to know what holds them together.

The other thing that Kenyan musicians can learn from Sauti Sol is how to package themselves and what elements they want the public to see and what they don’t i.e branding.

Sauti Sol has mastered the art of making good music
Sauti Sol

If I was a local artist I would also be curious to know how to plan releases. Even when Gengetone was so big, Sauti Sol would release a song and trend at number 1. How does that happen?

Their fifth album Midnight Train has been so successful and this can also be a learning point because a number of Kenyan artists are afraid of releasing albums because they fear that they will flop.

Lastly, another thing artists can learn from Sauti Sol, which is one of the most successful bands in Africa, is how to monetize their craft. What are some of the revenue streams and how do they tap them?

Sol Family will air on Sunday, August 2 on Maisha Magic Plus. Mark your calendars ladies and gentlemen and be prepared to learn as you’re entertained.

Willy Paul’s collabo with Sauti Sol’s Bien is timely

Posted on by Ozymandias

Willy Paul has been making major moves as he moves to solidify himself as a secular artist and the latest one, a collabo with Sauti Sol’s Bien Aime Baraza, caught many people off guard.

Also read: Kenyans should take time and understand Willy Paul musical journey

The controversial artist has worked with Sauti Sol before, back when he was a gospel artist they released a jam dubbed Take It Slow.

Bien Aime Baraza

But the fact that he decided to single out Bien Aime for his latest joint titled Kamati Ya Roho Chafu just shows how much he’s determined to make it big as a secular artist.

If you ask me, I’ll tell you that this collabo would not have come at a better  time and they both delivered on this track.

Bien Aime has an amazing voice and the best part is that it blends really well with that of Willy Paul. You will just find yourself hitting the replay button because it sounds pleasant to the ears.

Kamati Ya Roho Chafu is also well-packaged. The video is crisp, the styling is on point and the locations are really dope.

Willy Paul is controlling the game with 'Controller'
Willy Paul

Interestingly, many people had thought that Willy Paul would flop as a secular artist but the opposite is turning out to be true.

Pozze’s moves are well-calculated and although I do not know what informs his decision to work with an artist, it’s working in his favor.

His bad boy image also helps him a lot because let’s be honest, ladies really love that. They love bad boys for some reason I just can’t explain.

Only time will tell if Willy Paul can surmount the pressure that he is getting from his peers in the secular industry.

Watch Kamati Ya Roho Chafu below and tell us what you think.

The iconic Sauti Sol’s story is set to premier on Maisha Magic Plus, on the Sol Family Show!

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

From the band that brought us the biggest hits of our time, comes a brand-new show about the work that goes behind the making of the music.

Sol Family, a new reality show set to premiere on Maisha Magic Plus on Sunday 2 August 2020 will take viewers on a behind the scenes journey of the Sol Generation hit-making machine.

The 13-part series will give viewers a front row seat to the lives of the band and work that goes behind the production of the music that fans have enjoyed over the years.

“We are excited to be launching Sol Family on the channel this August” said Margaret Mathore, Channel Head of Maisha Magic Plus. Sauti Sol is a household Kenyan name and as Kenya’s most loved story-teller we strongly believe that this addition to the content mix will offer our viewers greater local entertainment and broaden the genres that are currently available on offer on the channel” said Mathore

Sauti Sol -has worked with some of Africa’s music legends including Burna Boy, Sho Madjozi – Patoranking, Tiwa Savage, -, Vanessa Mdee, Yemi Alade, Khaligraph Jones, Nyashinski, Bebe Cool, Mi Casa, Toofan including the legendary American Singer and Songwriter- India Arie.

The band has also embarked on several successful tours in Africa and Europe, topped Kenyan charts and gained international attention with shows in Europe and the US.

Mathore added, “The Kenyan entertainment industry continues to change rapidly and has become extremely relevant throughout the years. We are proud of our heritage and excited to highlight the growth within the entertainment sector and contribute in accelerating it in any way possible.”

Mathore also stated that Maisha Magic Plus remains committed to find and develop the right mix of content and deliver shows that people love into their hands and straight into their living rooms.

“We look forward to the launch of Sol Family and trust that it will resonate well with our audiences just as much as all the other shows on our channel,” concluded Mathore.

Sol Family will explore the lives of Savara, Chimano, Bien and Polycarp as well as the stars of Sol Generation; Nviiri and Bensoul and the team behind their management that make the magic happen.

The show will also delve deep into the music-making process and uncover never been seen before aspects of their personal lives that make them tick.

Sol Family will premiere on Sunday 2 August 2020 and will air every Sunday exclusively on Maisha Magic Plus available exclusively on DStv Premium, Compact Plus and Compact on DStv channel 163.

Been a long time coming! Sauti Sol’s new reality show set to rock the airwaves

Posted on by Gloria Katunge

Kenyan afro-pop band, Sauti Sol are set to officially launch their new docu-reality show dubbed Sol Family to premiere on our screens come August 2, 2020.

A documentary to be aired on Maisha Magic Plus from 7:30 pm as Kenyans prep for a glimpse into the personal lives of each of these 4 artistes.

Right from their music productions, to international awards and performances, to their tours around the globe, their get-togethers, their individual love lives…the list is endless.

Kenyan boy band, Sauti Sol

Having spent a solid 15 years together as a team and still pushing, sharing their joys and sorrows, falling and getting back on their feet, working tirelessly day and night to leave a legacy…every step of the journey has been but a lesson.

Also read: Relief as Ruth Matete finally buries late husband

The group’s lead vocalist, Bien Aime Baraza lightly expressed:

Mi ndio msee wa Ronga. Mi ndio barbie kwa group. But I’m happy to be in a winning team.

Bien Aime
Vocalist, Bien Aime Baraza

For Willis Chimano, this is going to be a blend of; fun, excitement but also a wild adventure, one he can’t wait to watch unfold.

I’m very eager to share it with the world and see how they’ll perceive it.

Also read: Tanzania’s extra curvy socialite Poshy Queen engaged to longtime lover! (Photos)

Sauti Sol’s band member, Willis Chimano

Well, well, well…the juicy part is sure their personal love lives especially for those you rarely get wind of, as Savara Mudigi finally introduces his foreign damsel to the world, gushing:

Yvonne is my girl, Yvonne is my rock mahn! Madem uko nje mmejam, msijali. Maybe tutaachana tu! Wapi?

Lovebirds, Savara Mudigi and Yvonne Endo

And for Polycarp, pregnancy struggles have never been better told.

Polycarp Otieno with wife, Lady Mandy

It’s as if we’ll start from scratch watching and listening to a beautiful narrative ever since Sauti Sol’s star shone. I almost can’t wait.

Remember, the story will be told as it is on the ground!

It’s about time Le Band reunited!

Posted on by Branny

If there’s a Kenyan band that has really been missed on the local entertainment scene, it’s Le Band – the group that was made up of Fidel Shammah, Ken Mwendwa, Joel Maina and Abe Kiptanui.

Also read: Why Kenyan music groups don’t last

Most people first came to know Le Band when they released a song titled Number One with Suzziah. Actually they were even touted as the next Sauti Sol.

Le Band

They went on to release other jams such as For You, Nakupenda, Leo, Move, Sweet Lady and before we knew it, the group members parted ways.

Many people who were huge fans of Le Band, like myself, were really taken aback with the news of their separation because their music careers had not even taken off.

These guys made good music. The kind that you can listen to even when an older person is around. Some people call it clean music.

Le Band

One of the things that I loved about Le Band is that it had a good mix of talents. Fidel was a good vocalist. His voice drove many ladies wild.

Ken had a deep bass that many of us loved listening to, Joel also had a good voice and a wide vocal range. Abe was so good with the guitar. This nice blend is what made them to stand out.

While the former members of the the group have tried to pursue careers as solo artists, it is not the same. Many of us really miss the group and feel it’s about time they re-united.

Understandably, being in a group is difficult because you have to factor in the different personalities and people may be engaged in different activities when it’s time to rehearse but if Sauti Sol has done it, why can’t they also do it?

Sauti Sol fires yet another artist from Sol Generation

Posted on by Pauline Syombua

Sauti Sol’s lead singer Bien Aime Baraza has come out to announce yet another exit of a member from their Sol Generation music label!

Speaking about Sol Generation, Bien has once again revealed the exit of yet another member; just a few months after Crystal was kicked out of the group for unknown reasons.

According to Bien, the latest member to exit the group is Kaskazini. A few fans had already noticed the changes as the young man did not feature in Midnight Train album dropped which dropped on June 5th.

Bien who always seems to have an explanation for everything went on to say;

It’s been so difficult. We started with four, and now there are two,” he said, referring to the exit of Crystal Asige and Kaskazini. “Right now we have Nviiri and Bensoul. They are the future of Kenyan music. It’s just business, and also about meeting our needs and their needs

Crystal opens up about exiting Sol Generation

Speaking about her exit from Sol Generation; Ms Crystal told K24’s Chit Chat hosts that she had no idea why the management kicked her out! She said;

Back in November they told me that they wanted me to leave, they don’t want me to be in the group anymore and so I left. That’s literally the beginning and the end of the story.

Bien on the other hand revealed that they had a few issues here and there; making it hard to work with the female singer.

We are not working with crystal anymore and this came with a lot of complications. It was an amicable break and we are glad we gave her a platform.

Well it could be that both Crystal and Kaskazini couldn’t deliver the type of vibe Sauti Sol delivers in their songs; therefore making it hard to continue investing in the two.

However Nviiri and Bensoul continue to make headlines thanks to their addictive vocal cords and catchy lyrics!

Sauti Sol´s Bien reveals plans to be a father soon (Details)

Posted on by Gloria Katunge

In as much as we call this era the contemporary African age, the common belief that once a couple ties the knot, we need to hear a baby´s cry has never died.

Many celebrities have had a hard time trying to keep off trolls persistently asking for a baby soon after walking the isle.

Some have succumbed to the pressure. Others decide to keep mum and ignore these idle minds while others have faced-off with their critics in a bid to silence them.

Whichever works for you!

Chiki Kuruka and Sauti Sol´s vocalist, Bien Aime Baraza had their nuptials go down in a private affair barely in March but Kenyans are already asking to be uncles and aunties to a baby girl or a baby boy.

Lovebirds, Bien Aime and Chiki Kuruka

Also read: Sauti Sol’s Bien reveals why fans will never get to see his wedding photos

Questions the young couple have been forced to come out public and address after the heat became too much to survive.

Fatherhood

Bien responded that he has never had any baby mamas´ scandal and he is here to bid his time because parenthood does not have a time frame.

Hata kabla ya Chiki, sijawahi ekelewa mimba.

Sauti Sol vocalist, Bien Aime Baraza

According to him, fans should express patience because the time will come for the world to welcome a mini Chiki and Bien.

Also read: ¨I get insecure in my marriage,¨ Sauti Sol´s Bien confesses 2 months after private wedding

He however revealed that he keeps his eyes raised to the heavens because he just cannot wait to be called ´daddy´.

Tunaomba Mungu atu-bless. I´m looking forward to fatherhood.

Married couple, Bien Aime and Chiki Kuruka

Speaking of becoming a father, the tall, dark and handsome artist said two kids was his maximum, but failed to explain why.

Ikienda sana wawili.

His revelation comes barely 5 weeks after fellow band member and guitarist, Polycarp Otieno announced that his wife, Lady Mandy was expectant with their first child.

Polycarp Otieno and wife, Lady Mandy

It seems the Sauti Sol family is looking forward to a set of children in the prospective future.

Well, we wish them all God´s blessings!

Sauti Sol has mastered the art of making good music

Posted on by David Kingsley

I don’t know about you but I knew that Sauti Sol’s latest song dubbed Insecure was going to be a hit even before they released it. No kidding.

Also read: Sauti Sol’s musical journey is proof that patience pays

This is simply because they have gotten to a point in their music careers where everything they touch instantly turns into gold. Their songs get instant love from their fans and I don’t even think they struggle to market/push them

Sauti Sol

The group which comprises of; Bien Aime Barasa, Willis Chimano, Savara Mudigi and Polycarp Otieno has mastered the art of making good music.

Having been in the industry for 15 years or so, the have learnt the dos and don’t, studied market trends so they know when to release new music and improved the qualities of their videos and audios.

Sauti Sol

In addition to that, they also don’t make random songs. The Kenyan boy-band make songs that create conversations and are enjoyable at the same time.

I’m sure you have noticed that Sauti Sol is never in a hurry to release new music. This is because they know that they have a ready market and the demand for their music is high. So they take their time the end product is dope.

Also read: Sauti Sol has to put up a strong fight to save Kenyan music

They have a different approach to music and I hope that other artists can borrow a leaf from them if they also want to make music that will be played for many years to come. Timeless music.

One thing that makes me really happy is that Sauti Sol has taken talented artists likes; Nviiri, Bensoul and Kaskazini under their wings which means that we will still be treated to good music even after they hang up their boots.

Watch their latest track titled Insecure below.

Sauti Sol respond to claims they never give back to society

Posted on by Gloria Katunge

In as much as Kenyan celebrities say they publicly display their works of charity, to thank all partners involved, Sauti Sol are yet to buy into the idea.

The Kenyan afro-pop band are notably among the few Kenyan celebrities who are yet to come forward with their donations or participation in acts of charity especially to the most vulnerable during such times.

Lead singer, Bien-Aime Baraza has now clarified that they do what they need to do and support those in need, but away from the lens.

Kenyan afro-pop band, Sauti Sol

Response

The artist told Mpasho their vibe doesn´t go well with showing it off and for most of their projects, it is always lowkey.

If I give you money and you post on social media, it becomes more about me than the person who is given. Which I don´t think is cool. I would do a charity and keep it to myself. We do a lot of projects, including opening libraries and visiting children, but we do not post since we do them from our hearts. We don´t do to show people.

Also read: Revealed! Why celebrities photograph their acts of charity

Bien added that that was their style of doing things and should therefore not compel anyone to subscribe to their approach.

We are doing stuff but if that is your style in giving, then they should be allowed to do them. Let us not crucify those who give and show, as everyone has their style of giving.

Celebrated musician Bien Aime Barasa of Sauti Sol

Further speaking of the common belief that celebrities ´are monied´ and that when they don´t give, they are being´mean´, the popular artist stated that public figures have their battles as well and should not be judged.

People have problems so let us not assume some things, as some of us are fighting huge battles.

Also read: Sauti Sol savagely clap back at fan who claimed ´Insecure´ was pathetic

It turns out the boy band is planning a charity event with a fraction of the money accumulated set to go to their charity work.

Kenyan boy band, Sauti Sol

No lie! This must be some handsome money, judging from the hits off their album, Midnight Train set for release on Friday, May 5th.

Well…that should be an answer already.

Eric Musyoka, the iconic producer who took Kenyan music to greater heights

Posted on by David Kingsley

It’s hard to talk about Kenyan music without mentioning the name of Decimal Records CEO Eric Musyoka, popularly known as Musyox. He has been very instrumental in shaping the Kenyan sound.

Also read: Stop looking for content from new-age musicians!

In the early to mid 2000s when Calif Records and Ogopa Deejays were beefing, the award-winning producer, who is now 38, was working at Homeboyz Entertianment.

Musyoka

While at the stable which is owned by the Rabar family, Musyoka produced songs for the musicians like; Prezzo, TID, Mr Lenny, Nameless, AY, Wyre, Peter Miles, Nikki, Nonini, just to name a few.

He then took a break and went for further studies at the SAE Institute in the US in 2006. Upon his return, he formed Decimal Records and signed P-Unit.

If you ask me, I will tell you that the group that was made up Frasha, Bon Eye and Gabu is one of Musyoka’s greatest achievements to this day. He literally propelled them to greater heights.

Musyoka and Bon Eye

What most people do not know is that the three started off as Nonini’s dancers and back-up singers and by 2010 they had won several awards including a MTV Africa Music Award (MAMA). Take a moment and let that sink in.

At Decimal, Musyoka has also worked with Just A Band, Juliani, Daddy Owen, Sauti Sol, Elani, Octopizzo and many more. Put simply, there is a high chance that he has produced a jam for your favourite Kenyan artist.

When all is said and done, he will be remembered for nurturing talents and taking Kenyan music to the continental stage because he started  producing music at a time when most artists were just focusing on their local audiences.

Musyoka is one of the producers who changed the game by ensuring our music could transcend our borders and this led to artists getting so many shows outside the country.

He’s a legend in his own right and it saddens me that most people will realize this after he hangs up his boots because as they say, you never miss something until it’s gone.

Watch one of his most popular jams dubbed Furahi Day by Nonini and Nameless below.

 

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

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

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.

“I will be a dad, meen!” Bien excited about fatherhood as Sauti sol expects their first child!

Posted on by Pauline Syombua

Sauti Sol is about to receive their first tinny human thanks to polycarp and his wife Amanda. The couple announced about their pregnancy a few weeks ago leaving fans excited.

However I can assure you that no one is more excited than Bien who can’t wait to meet this tiny human. Speaking during a recent interview with Word Is, Bien for the first time opened up during details about their unborn child.

He went on to reveal that they are not aware of the gender; but despite that all they want is to meet the tiny human who will be arriving very soon. Bien went on to open up saying;

Although we all do not know the gender yet, we are so happy and we can’t wait to see Sauti Sol’s first child. I will be a dad, meen.

According to Bien, Polycarp’s baby will automatically make him a father; and as expected he is ready to step in and help out where he can. The out spoken singer said;

I am so proud of Polycarp and his wife and we are going to support him 100 per cent and even the kid. That is like my own child.

He went on to add;

Polycarp is like my own blood brother because we have gone through so much together to be where we are today. He has led us in the right way. I do not know what gift to gift them.

Polycarp weds Amanda

Polycarp’s wife, Lady Mandy expectant

Polycarp and his lovely bride held a private wedding back in August 2018; where he took Lady Mandy as the love of his life. The wedding however took place in Burundi where Amanda comes from.

However they both relocated to Nairobi, Kenya where they will be raising their family. Mandy on the other hand prefers to keep her pregnancy private however fans hope that they will not keep their baby private too!

Artist Spotlight: Yviona Reign, fast-rising songstress who’s destined for greatness

Posted on by David Kingsley

If there’s an upcoming female singer that I really admire then it’s one Yviona Musa, popularly known as Yviona Reign.

When she was still new in the local industry, she would hawk her album in the Central Business District  (CBD), especially around Nation Centre.

This way, more people got to know about her and her beautiful music. Before Yviona knew it, her songs were being played on TV and local radio stations.

Yviona Reign
Yviona Reign

Interestingly, she didn’t really intend to become a musician. In a past interview, the beautiful lass stated that her cousin sent her a beat and asked her to record herself singing to it.

From that day, the 23-year-old lass knew that she wanted to do music. Although she faced challenges as she wrote her first song, she mastered the art within a short time.

Yviona burst into the limelight when she recorded a hair raising rendition of Sauti Sol’s popular hit titled Melanin. She became the talk of the town weeks after releasing it thanks to her beautiful voice.

Since then, she has released several songs of her own. They include; Yea Girl, Sick, Fanta, Baddest Bitch in Africa, Secret, Thug Love with King Kaka and Coco – which happens to be my favourite.

Listen to Coco below and tell us what you think.

Nviiri The Storyteller is destined for greatness

Posted on by David Kingsley

Not many people know this but Nviiri Sande, better known as Nviiri The Storyteller, was making music long before Kenyan boy band Sauti Sol took him under their wings.

Also read: Believe it or not, Sauti Sol is saving the Kenyan music industry

To be fair, he was still struggling, just like many upcoming artists, despite the fact that he was very talented and that explains why he took the opportunity that the Sura Yako hitmakers gave him and ran with it.

Nviiri The Storyteller
Nviiri The Storyteller

If you ask me, Nviiri The Storyteller, who is credited for co-writing Sauti Sol’s 2018 mega hit dubbed Melanin, is one of the most successful solo artists in Kenya at the moment.

Also read: Stop asking musicians what else they do!

In the last few months, the Eastlands bred singer has released three songs which have all done well. They are; Pombe Sigara, Overdose and Kesi Baadae.

Nviiri The Storyteller has an amazing voice and he taught himself to play instruments such as the guitar. Maybe he’d not be where he is today were it not for his sheer determination.

Nviiri The Storyteller

He’s an all round creative and that is why everything he touches turns into gold instantly. If you look at his songs you will realize that so much work went into them and that he is really talented.

I believe that with the guidance of Sauti Sol, Nviiri The Storyteller is going to scale great heights and who knows, this chap might even become the first Kenyan to bag a BET award or even a Grammy.

Watch his latest release dubbed Kesi Baadae below. Enjoy!

Kenyans don’t give their musicians enough support

Posted on by David Kingsley

Local music rarely transcends borders and to be honest, it’s partly our fault as Kenyans. We don’t appreciate our artists enough. Maybe things would be different if we did, who knows?

Stella Mwangi

Artists from Tanzania, Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa and other African countries have been making headways in the international music scene because of the support that they enjoy from their country mates.

This support motivates them to set bigger goals and pursue them. Perhaps this explains why their music industries are way ahead of Kenya and from the look of things it will take us time to catch up.

You could argue that local musicians are not doing enough and that they are not making music which can be played outside Kenya. That notion is wrong and the complete opposite of what is really happening.

If you are keen enough, you’ll notice that the likes of Sauti Sol, Khaligraph, King Kaka, MDQ, Victoria Kimani, Octopizzo, Stella Mwangi, Blinky Bill, have been working hard to show the world that Kenya has so much to offer.

Billy Bill

However, their efforts neither here nor there because we don’t support or encourage them. It’s almost as if they are making music for the sake of it. This should not be the case.

At any given point in time, the biggest song in Kenya is always from Tanzania, Nigeria or some other African country. It’s rarely our own music. We are consuming foreign music at the expense of local music and this is wrong.

If you look at the biggest Kenyan concerts the last few years, you’ll realize that the main performer was either an international act or from Nigeria, Tanzania and the likes. Why is this so?

By giving local artists a chance to be the headline acts of such big concerts, we’ll show them that we have a lot of faith in them. This way, they will be have the confidence to chase even bigger goals.

Another way we could support them is by buying their music and merchandise, showing up for their concerts, sharing their new music releases and encouraging them every chance we get. What would it cost you to send a tweet to your favourite artist telling them to keep pushing? Absolutely nothing!

Watch Khaligraph’s latest single Superman below.

Sauti Sol’s musical journey is proof that patience pays

Posted on by David Kingsley

I’m so happy for Sauti Sol. If you are keen, I am sure you’ve noticed that many good things are have been happening to them in the past few months and if you ask me, they deserve all of it and perhaps even more.

Also read: Believe it or not, Sauti Sol is saving the Kenyan music industry

From bagging two awards at the 6th edition of the Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) to signing an exclusive recording deal with Universal Music Africa (UMA) which is a division of Universal Music Group.

Sauti Sol

Earlier this week, the boy band made history yet again after they were featured in the official soundtrack of the first Netflix Original African series Queen Sono alongside South African singer Sho Madjozi.

As much as they are making great strides and all, the truth is that it wasn’t easy for them to be where they are today and that explains my elation since I am a huge fan of the group.

You see, Sauti Sol was formed in 2005 and they released their debut studio album dubbed Mwanzo in 2008 and that means that they have been in the game for more than 15 years!

Whichever way you look at it, 15 years is a damn long time and the fact that they are just starting to reap the fruits of their hard work is enough that patience pays.

Sauti Sol

The Kenyan music industry is a mess and I’m sure there are many instances when they felt like throwing in the towel but they didn’t. Instead, they kept pushing while assuring themselves that their efforts will pay off one day.

After what seemed like an endless wait for their big break, it’s finally happening. The way I see it, it’s only a matter of time before they bag a BET or a Grammy.

If there’s one lesson that musicians, especially the upcoming ones, can learn from Sauti Sol’s journey it’s that nothing is as important as passion.

Watch Sauti Sol’s latest single titled Suzanna below.

Should secular artists continue releasing gospel music?

Posted on by David Kingsley

The local music industry is very interesting. The reason I’m saying this is because what happens is the exact opposite of what is expected under normal circumstances.

Also read: Kenyan gospel artists must wake up

For instance, you expect that secular artists, who often viewed as wayward, will release songs that mock God and tell us to disregard his teachings since they don’t really believe in Him themselves.

On the other hand, gospel artists, who are perceived as upright by members of the society, are expected to spread the word of God, win more souls to Christ and live according to his teachings.

Sauti Sol

However, what happens on the ground is different. More often than not, gospel artists do very little in spreading the word of God and the truth is secular artists have won more souls to Christ.

If you look at the songs which have been released by both sides over the last few years, I’m pretty you will agree with me gospel artists have abdicated their role.

If you are in doubt, perhaps you should ask yourself when was the last time that you listened to a gospel song and felt like it touched your life.

Nyashinski

On the other hand, there are countless songs by secular artists that you listen to and you feel like God will never leave you in your time of need. They are Nadia Mukami’s Maombi, Sauti Sol’s Kuliko Jana, Nyashinski’s Mungu Pekee etc.

This really got me thinking because I can tell you for free that this trend is not about to go away. I often wonder if the so called secular artists should continue releasing gospel songs.

And the answer is yes because at the end of the day, the main goal is still achieved. The truth is that gospel artists are no longer serious about God’s work and we must give it to their secular counterparts for stepping up.

Listen to Maombi by Nadia Mukami below.