Tanzania’s legendary musician Judith Wambura popularly known as lady Jaydee is in mourning folliwing the death of her mother.

The singer’s mother, Martha Mbibo, died at 7 am Thursday, April 26 at her home in Dar es Salaam.

Jaydee’s brother, Dabo Mbibo, broke the news saying his mother succumbed after a long battle with bladder cancer.

Lady Jaydee’s rep, Lucy Mosha, said Ms Mbibo’s condition had improved significantly in the recent past.

“She was, previously, admitted to Muhimbili National Hospital and when her condition improved, she was discharged. Until her death, she was being attended to at home. We’d take her to hospital occasionally for check-up,” said Ms Mosha.

She died aged 72.

Lady Jaydee is yet to issue a statement as condolence messages pour in from her social media followers. Family and friends are meeting at Ms Mbibo’s home in Kiwalani, Dar es Salaam to plan her funeral.

In a past Instagram post, Jaydee revealed that her mother was battling cancer and requested her fans to pray for her.

“I have faith that God will heal my mum and raise her from the bed, which she has been confined to for the past two months. It is only God who has the powers to do that,” said Jaydee.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Because he has already made it, Kasabun hitmaker Timmy Tdat has taken the next step of nurturing the next generation of hitmakers.

The hitmaker, one of Kenya’s most consistent, has delivered his latest project featuring various new artistes. Dubbed “Ingoje”, the banger features Achicho Dimples, ArrowsnSpears, Lox De Chiz, and Rowen Nino.

Of the four, two have been singled out for their impressive efforts. They are Achicho Dimples and Lox De Chiz

The audio track is produced by Magix Enga.

Watch below.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Round 2 of King Kaka’s series of hard-hitting rap tracks has been released.

After a largely disappointing Round 1, the Kaka Empire rapper has upped his game. He is assisted by up and coming rapper Mbithi who has left fans wanting more of his music.

“Round 2” is produced by The Other Guys and directed by Johnson Kyalo.

Check it out below.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

After weeks of hype and anticipation, Kenya’s newest R&B sensation Sagini has delivered his first solo single.

The up and coming singer is signed under Khaligraph Jones’ Record Label – BluInk Corp, and has since made his impressionable mark as a feature and background vocalist on a number of hits including Khaligraph Jones “The Khali Cartel.”

He has stepped out of the shadows and is ready to take the industry by storm, presenting his first release under BluInk  – Ki2 Ingine.

In “Ki2 Ingine”, Sagini stays true to his prowess as a vocalist and delivers a pleasantly smooth love jam.

The reception for the track has been fantastic and fans are loving the video produced by Khali.

Check it out below.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

The year was 2013 and the Kenyan gospel industry had been blessed by the amazing songs of Esther Ndung’u. However, she inexplicably went missing leaving her newfound fans out to dry.

Esther, who is famed for the song “Kuoshwa Kwa Damu”, has finally made her highly anticipated comeback after five years.

She opened up to Buzz about her hiatus and what we can expect from her comeback.

You gave the world amazing songs in 2013, then went under…

Uh, I was naive then. I went into the industry blindly and I didn’t have a mentor to guide me; you know, someone to encourage and show me how to navigate it.

When I started out, I faced very many challenges; like I’d be invited to an event and not be allowed to perform. Besides getting scared, that really dampened my spirits.

But while my music career remained dormant for a while, other aspects of my life were flourishing. I became a mother and went back to school and studied for a course in Psychology.

During the break, I was able to reflect more on my career in music and my long-term goals. Now I am back — rejuvenated and wiser.

Tell us about your comeback song

The song is called “RIA” and it was released just a few days ago. RIA means joy and it is about giving praise to God for all the amazing things that He has done, not just for me but also for someone else out there.

Additionally, it’s a song that celebrates diversity. For instance, the chorus is in Arabic and I can bet that dancing enthusiasts will enjoy the song.

Are you back to stay?

Yes, for good.

Convince us…

Maybe I should start by apologising to my fans. Can you imagine that five years down the line, I still get messages from some of my fans questioning me about my silence?

I intend to get back to the studio next week and record more songs. This time, I won’t let them down. Like I said, I am here to stay.

I understand that the gospel sphere has different genres. What’s your kind of music?

I would say that I am an all-around artiste. My previous album has some reggae, kapuka and blues song. However, I am not sure that I can hack hip-hop.

When you took a hiatus, you had time to observe the industry from a distance. What did you learn?

That it is an industry of uncertainty, of chance. It is hard to tell what will work and what will not work.

In my comeback, I have resolved to focus on my dreams and do the best that I can. I have so much to share with the world and I will be back to the studio next week to record more songs.

While away, I found myself a mentor, Pitson, popular for “Lingala Ya Yesu”. He has taught me so much about the industry and now, as I make my way, I know I have someone to hold my hand.

Are you limited to gospel music?

As at now, I am inspired by the word of God but I don’t want to put myself in a cage. In the near future, I intend to do other genres provided that it is inspiring and socially acceptable.

I am certain that before you got into the industry, you must have had some expectations of what it would be like… did your expectations match the reality?

Oh, no. Remember that I said, how naive I was? I thought that all it took was one to be a good singer.

That deejays will be making incessant calls requesting for my CDs and I would have to deal with numerous invitations to perform.

My family and friends spoke highly of my music and I used to think that it was the case everywhere… that I was a star.

Lo and behold!! The industry is like a marketplace. You have to work hard, you have to persist and, importantly, you have to make peace with rejections.

I now know better and I am determined to prosper. Not for my glory but His.

What else are you involved in that contributes to your music?

I work with Immanuel Afrika, a rehabilitation centre my husband and I started for street children at Lusigeti in Kikuyu.

I spend time engaging them either in talks or counselling sessions. When these children change, they are amazing.

Which song do you listen to and wish you owned the lyrics?

That has to be “Mwema” by Mercy Masika. When I hear it, I can’t help but sing along. Also, “Kilele” by Pitson is a song I would have loved to have on my album.

An artiste you’d love to collabo with?

Kaem Kim. He’s an up-and-coming artiste with amazing vocals. Sometimes, I envision myself singing beside Mercy Masika and Pitson. So, yeah, I would want a collabo with them as well.

If we lived in the Biblical time, which character would you love to role play?

Esther. I promise that it has nothing to do with my name but because she is one woman who received unmerited favour from God.

Do you have a nickname that you’ve always wanted to use but for some reason you didn’t?

Several! When I started out, I wanted to use names like “Essie” and “Kelly Kelly”, hahaha.

My dad has a unique name — Muraba — and at some point I considered using it.

However, for some reason, people still continued to refer to me as Esther.

What is your greatest wish?

That my songs would be played and listened to beyond the Kenyan borders. I want to be out there.

I want people to be inspired by my music and I wish that people miles away relate to my songs.

More importantly, I want to win souls to Christ.

Who is your greatest fan?

Mmm…. This question is really putting me in a bad spot because I can’t afford to make anybody feel left out. So let’s say, my family and friends, with my hubby taking the top tier.

In the next few seconds, teach us something that you think we don’t know…

Love is friendship on fire.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Agnes Nonsizi is best known for her work as a television host on Kameme TV. What most people don’t know is that she is an also an artist manager; currently managing Kenya’s all-girl pop group The Band BeCa.

Agnes is also the co-founder of the Terazo New Media Company where she is head of Public Relations.

When she is not working, she is a wife and a mother. She shared her exciting and challenging journey with EveWoman:

How did you start out?

Getting here has been a journey of patience and resilience. I started by working for several PR firms, learning the ropes, making contacts and growing myself. By 2016, I had had enough and quit working for my last employer. Which is when Terazo was born. Terazo was my husband’s idea for a while. Being a former artist, he knew the issues that ailed the industry and why artistes were not able to make money. So creating this company was meant to offer solutions to artists in the industry.

What is a typical day for you in the workplace?

I usually don’t have a typical work day since I work on a project to project basis. But I always plan my day on the night before. I write down everything that needs to be done the very next day so I am able to internalize and hit the ground running. My day involves a lot of calling and nagging different contacts in order to get my client publicity and awareness. I also have to accompany my client throughout the media tour to guide them on how to handle themselves while on air. Advise on their image both physical and on their social media accounts. Meanwhile I am also actively scouting for new talent.

What are the issues that give you sleepless nights? 

I do not want to die poor. I do not want my kids to suffer. So I stay awake trying to figure out how I can create and maintain wealth. I stay awake trying to figure out how I can grow the business.

How do you manage people and their different personalities?

Patience! Dealing with celebrities is a task. I have to deal with media personalities and music celebrities on a daily basis. It helps that I don’t take things to heart. I let most of the stuff slide and move on quickly. This has saved me a lot of heart ache and allowed me to work well with them. But patience remains the most important element.

How do you juggle a demanding business and motherhood?

I have a great support system. My husband has been my greatest support system. He takes care of our baby when I have to be away for early mornings or late nights or even when I have to travel. I also have a wonderful nanny who is great with baby and managing the house. This leaves me time to focus on work and business.

How is it working with your husband? Does work roll over to the home?

We both have our strengths and tend to concentrate on them. My husband is very good at administrative work while I, being very extroverted, focus on client business and the PR aspect. Both the business and our marriage are young so it takes a conscious effort to work on maintaining a balance between the two.

We have had to come up with structures that handle aspects such as how do we pay ourselves, who does what etc. It is a learning process.

How do you motivate yourself and stay motivated?

Money keeps me motivated. Money makes me leave the warmth of my bed even when I don’t want to. I want to leave a legacy for my children. I want to be able to afford the things I want in life. I also have a passion for PR so it is easy for me to go over and above my call of duty.

 If you had to start from scratch, what would you do differently?

I wouldn’t change much since all I went through prepared me for who I am now. I am wiser and more capable due to my past experiences I would however drop the negative people in my life a lot faster. I think I let them hang on for too long when I should have let them go.

Describe one of your biggest accomplishment. What lesson did you learn, and how did it contribute to a greater success?

The Band Beca has so far been my biggest accomplishment. Seeing them on Coke Studio in 2017 after all the work we had done from scratch gave me so much joy.

Describe one of your biggest failures. What lesson did you learn, and how did it contribute to a greater success?

We once took on a project thinking it would become a big brand but it failed terribly. It was quite the disappointment at the time. But we learnt to carefully choose who we work with and what pit holes to avoid.

Do you have a mentor to guide you through this journey? Would you recommend that women get mentors?

I don’t have a mentor. I guess I wouldn’t even know where to begin in asking someone to mentor me. I am however realizing the value of a mentor and will start looking to get one.

In summary what are the five tips you would give women who have just started their entrepreneurship journey?

This is your dream, not other people’s dream. So ignore the naysayers and follow your dream.

Stay focused on your dream.

Do what you love

Respect the process. Success takes time, it is not an overnight process.

Know your worth

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Pinky Ghelani is one of the most bankable media personalities in the region. At age 42, the model says she is not yet done because there is more to life than what we see.

She spoke to Buzz about her recent TEDx Talk, modelling, and life.

You say that life is about being in the moment, what does it mean and why?

There have been times that I have been forced to be present and in the moment. Some have been great and fantastic experiences and others not so great.

My life lesson is that at every given chance you need to be present. Sometimes we forget what is happening; right here, right now, is where you and I are meant to be, to be able to appreciate it.

Tell us about your TEDx talk.

It was my first and I was very privileged to be called upon. I talked about being in the moment, teaching and showing the participants how you can and why it is important.

It was a great platform for me to share the experiences about my journey.

Why vlogging and what do you normally vlog about?

I think it’s because of my background in media: television, radio and print. Once the media bug bites you can’t let it go.

It is a great opportunity to have my own voice via vlogging on YouTube. I’m still trying to find my own flow, but I’m thoroughly enjoying it.

I try to be aspirational and inspirational; to give you something instead of just looking in to my life, but how you can take nuggets of advice and better your own life.

Do you think at your age it is time to let younger generation take over the catwalk and mentor them?

I don’t mind. I have no competition with younger models.

When I’m asked to model I will model because it is a great privilege for people to still think of me that way.

I love it, being on the catwalk, because I just come alive when I’m on it. I gladly mentor younger models.

Just the other day I was speaking to some about the ‘pay models’ hashtag that went viral and just telling them how to build your momentum and build a career out of it. I love to speak to models and show them the way.

As a mother and someone who uses social media all the time, how difficult is it to raise children in this era?

We are wading through uncharted waters when it comes to parents my age who have kids now turning and getting in to teenage life.

They will look for validation online as people do. For me, I am trying to build strong characters and show them that it doesn’t matter out here how many likes you get.

It is tricky for a parent today because, how much can you control your children and how much can you keep up with them as well?

My advice to the children who are exposing themselves in order to get more likes: you guys are young so really, really protect yourselves.

It is also on parents to consistently talk to their children. Once it’s out there, it’s out there.

You have been in the media industry for almost two decades, do you think current media personalities uphold ethics?

A lot has changed since I was last in the media. I think I might be growing older because there are things I see and say to myself “that’s a bit much”.

But again it comes down to opening ourselves to social media where you are your own editor. You can post whatever you want. My thing is that you need to place your head on the pillow at night and say “whatever I did today was integrity and with dignity”. It’s a personal thing.

Would you ever go back to TV or radio?

Yes, if I find something that fits, for sure, because that is what made me who I am. It has to make sense to the person who is listening or watching.

You have a lot going on how do you unwind?

I take a nice hot bath, play relaxing music, meditate and take a good glass of wine.

Can you say you have lived your life to the fullest?

No, I think a lot of the time I’m cautious. I have enjoyed what I have done.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Viewers of popular Ebru TV’s talk show “Let’s Talk” were left stunned a little over two weeks ago when hosts Brenda Wairimu and Pierra Makena called it a day.

The two actresses formed part of an all-girl quartet alongside Elle Ciiru, and Monique Angelyn Bett.

Pierra, who turned 37 last month, cited prioritizing her happiness as the reason for parting ways with the station.

What of Brenda Wairimu? Well, the actress has finally spoken up saying that she found it hard to balance between acting and television hosting.

‘’It was overwhelming for me because of just trying to find that balance. Niko acting set and I’m getting late for work, it’s eating into my character and I end up doing a terrible job there. I end up getting there (work), being flushed and not ready. I have always wanted to be an actor so hosting kind of comes after,”  she said during an interview with Kalekye Mumo.

Brenda and Pierra have since been replaced by former ‘Nairobi Diaries’ actress Dana De Grazia Katherine and vlogger Lydia K.M.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Eric Omondi Ongao, who is believed to be one of the wealthiest comedians in Kenya, did not always have it easy when he started his trade.

The former Churchill Show comedian has in the past revealed how he was paid with food when he started his career.

“The comedy industry is going good places. When I started doing comedy, we were being paid with food. Now, it’s paying. Parents need to encourage their kids. Comedy is paying and the future is very bright,” said Eric in a past interview.

Apparently, that was not the only struggle Eric Omondi had to endure as he sought a better life for himself. When he was in high school, Eric, who was a pastor then, reportedly walked over 40 kilometres from Kisumu to Kakamega to preach the gospel.

The funnyman says he had tried to raise the fare for the journey but it proved futile. He soldiered on and walked the distance, and it has all paid off years later.

According to Eric, when he completed the journey, his only prayer was to drive the finest cars in the land.

Many years later, the prayer has been answered for the second time after Eric became the new owner of a Range Rover. The swanky ride is an upgrade to his Mercedes Benz that he has owned for a few years now.

Eric took to social media to inspire his followers, saying his cars are a sign of God’s blessings and the fulfillment of His word.

“To most of us a vehicle is just another material privilege, but to me these two are a sign of God’s blessings and the fulfilment of HIS WORD! I remember once while in form 3 in Kisumu Boys and a member of the Christian Union. I wanted to go preach in western Kenya but all I had was the WORD of God. After I tried to raise my fare to Kakamega for two weeks and failed. I decided to walk to Kakamega from Kisumu. YES! I walked from Kisumu through Mamboleo, Riat, Nyangori, Givole, Gambogi, Tigoi, Majengo, Vihiga, Mbale, Kilingili, Chavakali, Mukumu and finally got to Kakamega (I preached in atleast one school in these places). I remember asking God for one thing when I got to Kakamega “May I one day drive the finest cars in the land”

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

This must surely be the year of settling differences. President Uhuru Kenyatta and Opposition Chief Raila Odinga set the precedent and now everyone, including North Koren Leader Kim Jong-un, is looking to bury the hatchet.

Not to be left out of the bandwagon are two of Kenya’s biggest rivals in musician-turned politician Charles ‘Jaguar’ Njagua and nemesis Prezzo.

Over the weekend, the two brought to an end Kenya’s longest showbiz beef and agreed to chat the way forward for Kenya’s entertainment industry.

Announcing the kiss and makeup on social media, Jaguar said; “Met up with my colleague and brother CMB @prezzo254
For long, we chose to walk on different paths despite chasing the same dream.  A lot was said over the years, but we have come to the conclusion it is time to rise above our differences and focus on the betterment of our entertainment industry as we prepare ground for those that come after us.”

Prezzo was equally humble and referred to the man he once described as a “Mshamba” as a brother.

“Kama wengi mnavojua mimi na ndugu yangu @jaguarkenya tulkuwa na friction miaka nenda, miaka rudi ila Mungu alitupatanisha tukaamua kusahau yalio pita na focus kwa ya lio mbele. Iam glad we burried the hatchet now lets put in work my brother.”

To drive the point home, the two artistes have released a collabo – Timika.

Timika is a Swahili word meaning “fulfilled”. The song is an inspiring story that talks about the struggles one endures in order to accomplish success in life.

Timika was written and performed by Hon. Jaguar and CMB Prezzo after they decided to resolve their long-standing dispute.

Fortunately, both artists were recording their music at Main Switch studios but working with different producers.

Main Switch Studios Executive Producer – Philip Makanda and Dr Sappy (Prezzo’s Producer) reached out to both Hon. Jaguar and Prezzo to discuss the possibility of a musical collaboration. After extensive discussions, a handshake signified their truce and now we have Timika Video Directed by Enos Olik.

Check it out below.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Bongo Flava star Ali Saleh Kiba is still enjoying his wedding bliss to his long-term sweetheart Amina Khalef.

The lovebirds last Sunday held another wedding, days after their first one that was held in Mombasa on April 19th. The second wedding in Dar es Salaam proved more special as the singer teamed up with his brother, Abdu Kiba.

Abdu Kiba married his sweetheart Wahida.

The joint white wedding came after their separate Muslim weddings known as Nikkah, where a man goes to the mosque to say I do.

The white wedding in Dar es Salaam was attended by Mombasa Governor Ali Hassan Joho, former Tanzania first lady Mrs Salma Kikwete, top Tanzanian celebrities among them singer Ommy Dimpoz, stand-up comedian Idris Sultan, Vanessa Mdee and family members.

Tanzanian tourism Minister Dr Hamis Kigwangalla has offered to pay for Alikiba’s honeymoon.

“Congratulation Ali Kiba and your wife for your marriage… I will give you guys an offer, find any tourism attraction site that pleases you both for your honeymoon and I will foot all the expenses for the trip,”  Dr Hamis said.

Ali Kiba and his bride are scheduled to travel to Venice, Italy, for a two-week honeymoon.

Here are the photos from the joint wedding:

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Wanuri Kahiu has termed ‘unfortunate’ the ban on her lesbian love story Rafiki by the Kenya Film Classification Board.

Through CEO Ezekiel Mutua, KFCB said the homosexual scenes in the film were illegal in Kenya.

Mutua said the script previously approved by the board had been altered, and that he will pursue legal action against the producers.

The morality policeman also said his objections were around romantic scenes in the film, and that he had asked the Kahiu to edit these scenes.

KFCB further alleges that foreign sponsors are trying to introduce and normalise homosexuality in Kenya through movies and they should desist from such acts.

But Wanuri counters that the board did not ask for changes to romantic scenes, and instead asked the director to change the ending of the film.

“They asked me to change the ending of the film because they didn’t feel the ending was ‘remorseful’ enough,” Kahiu told The Hollywood Reporter of the meeting, which took place April 16.

Kahiu said she originally told the board she would consider their suggestion but returned April 25 and declined to make the change.

“They did not ask me to change any scenes of intimacy,” she said.

The film is based on Monica Arac de Nyeko’s short story Jambula Tree, which won the Caine Prize in 2007. The story sees the two lovers beaten as their community turns against them.

“It was a good thing to have this film because it recognises the long-time handiwork of us Kenyans, but it is unfortunate that it was banned. It is basically from a short story book called Jambula Tree, which in 2007 became a prize winner and it was not banned,” Wanuri said.

“What the ban means is that there is no single adult in Kenya who will be able to watch it. What we intended to communicate about is a reflection of society, some of whose lifestyles you may not agree with, some of whose beliefs you may not agree with. However, we have the right of constitution to redefine ourselves we also have the right of constitution to express the freedom of speech.

“We feel that the Kenya Film Classification Board violates our right of expression and this means that they will intimidate other filmmakers who might want to talk about different issues from coming up. We submitted our work earlier to them and there was no point where we broke the law. We feel disappointed because by doing this, they are denying the adults the opportunity to decide whether they will or they will not watch it,” she said, adding that the film will be shown around the world but not in Kenya.

Rafiki is the first ever Kenyan film to premiere at the prestigious Cannes International Film Festival. It has gained a lot of international support, with Grammy winner Janelle Monae throwing her full support behind the movie, saying, “Let’s celebrate this film, y’all. Let,s do screenings all over the world #Rafiki.”

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Everyone’s favorite comedian Timothy Kimani alias Njugush and his wife, Celestine Ndinda, are once again the most adorable couple on the internet.

This after they each took to their Instagram pages to introduce their son to the world.

Njugush and Celestine welcomed the baby boy a little over a month ago but have been keeping his identity away from the limelight.

They finally decided to unveil the handsome tot Wednesday evening, leaving their followers, both male and female, with the baby fever phenomenon.

In addition to the aww-inducing pictures, the first-time parents also penned humorous and adorable messages to their youngin.

Njugush went first, writing: “Hi boy boy….. I hope im not too late, kwanza wacha nikupe mushene….there is this lady, I hear they call her mama wa kavitz….I promise you are the 1st born..can cheat can lie, vitz sio mtoto wake…now sina time kabla you decide to KO (by the way hapa itabidi tuskizane, sitakua nikiwacha mwanaume kwa kitanda,tutoke tupigwe na baridi sote nkt) now now i see you already talked with your mother about who you gonna take after okay ata siskii vibaya ati youve taken after her good looks..(tears) yaani huwezi pata mahali unifix ata kama ni hii mapua yangu……i know its not late.”

He added: “I’ve realised you smile alot….that means your laughter nikama ya mama kavitz (mschwees)
Your heart seems as clean n kind as your mother’s…please i beg ongeeni mnifix mahali ata kama ni hii kiherehere yangu utachukua priiiis…. Hi wewe!! Weweeee (slaps knees) yani ulishalala nkt….haya basi ukiamka il tell you how your mum is my number one Cheerleader…il also squeez in about how genuine and deliberate she is….also well have bilateral talks of how true she has been over the years……and please usome so that you go to a good Uni where they not only give the best education but have wholesomely sexxy women like your mum, ill take you through a course i call ponyoka na first year……….haya basi fix me somewhere!!!!!!!! #ifikiemamayake Alafu hii picha ni ya deni utalipa ukianza mjengo next year.”

Minutes later, Celestine alias Mama wa Kavitz penned: “Hi baby… I know you are confused who njugush is..he used to be called Timo then akawa na madeni tukaonelea abadilishe jina to njugush……Anyway naona huto tumacho, please don’t be as cheeky as Hi kimtu kyangu (yes your dad)

“He is so damn hardworking, i see you have that in you..vile unajaza hizo diapers aki….it takes hard work.
He also has a heart of people ebu pia hio chukua…..kitu tu usiguze ni his appetite for food….anacheza na chakula….kindly sit him down and show him your ways………… One last thing, hapa utacheka uvunje mbavu .. yours truly mom.”

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

American rap mogul and entrepreneur Rick Ross came, rocked his show, and left his Kenyan fanbase wanting more. However, word on the street has it that not everyone was as pleased.

According to reports, some members of the first family did not get to hang out with Rick Ross, even after buying out the VVIP tent at the Carnivore.

They included President Uhuru Kenyatta’s daughter, Ngina Kenyatta, niece Nana Gecaga and PA Jomo.

HotSecretz reports that the First family members were set for a photo opportunity with Rick Ross before he walked on stage for his performance at 1 am.

But the plan never materialized because Rick Ross’ security whisked him straight to stage the minute he walked out of his limo.

It is said that the First family then sent word via their security detail to the stage manager during Rick Ross’ performance, asking him to “make it happen”.

That didn’t work either and after the show was over, the “Hustling” hitmaker was once again whisked away to his hotel room.

According to an unnamed source, Rick Ross had earlier that night suffered “seizures” and had “breathing problems”.

“His team had to get a masseuse to massage him for an hour before he went on stage. During his whole visit to Kenya, the star did not touch any alcohol.”

“That is why when he got on stage he took the seat and was on it for a while.”

It is believed Ross’ health scare explains why he was whisked in and out of the concert venue with little ceremony.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Gospel musician Rose Muhando has come out to address pictures of herself that sent shockwaves across social media.

In one of the undated photos, Muhando was photographed standing in a church pulpit with a bandaged hand. Her legs were also dotted with big black spots as her fans expressed concern over her wellbeing.

A section of social media even speculated that the Tanzanian singer was on hard drugs.

The singer has spoken for herself, saying she has been recovering from a road accident. Rose added that the pictures were taken a fortnight ago in Kenya.

“That image was taken two weeks ago when I was in Kenya. The cuts in my legs, which I sustained in a road accident three months ago, are healing. The process has left me with dark spots on the affected parts of the body, including my back. I am currently doing fine, even as I continue with treatment,” said Muhando.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

It’s official. Kenya’s power rap couple Khaligraph Jones and Cashy are no longer an item.

The ‘Mazishi’ rapper has confirmed the break up himself, bringing to an end months of speculation. It is also emerging that Cashy might be pregnant.

According to Khali, their relationship has been over for months now. On rumors of being Cashy’s baby daddy, Khaligraph was coy with the details.

“If you are asking me if I’m still with Cashy, we are not together. As far as the baby goes, that one I’m not going to talk about, sitaongelea,” said Khaligraph.

He added: “Me and Cashy are separated…we are not together. We haven’t been together for the past couple of months. We are not together right now and hivyo ndivyo vitu ziko. I need to move on with my life watu waache kuniuliza ako wapi.”

Khaligraph further noted that: “Biggest mistake one can ever do is bringing your girl into the limelight.”

On if he has since moved on, Khaligraph said: “Not just now, I don’t want to involve myself with women. Whether am single or not should not worry you, I just want to lay on the low key.”

The “Yego” also addressed his reported beef with Octo after the Kibera rapper dropped a line addressed to Khaligraph in “Noma Ni.”

Also Read: “I Was Giving Back to the Community,” Octo on Why He Dissed Khaligraph Jones [VIDEO]

“I haven’t had a chance to listen to it(Noma Ni). If I get a chance I’ll listen to it. I’m always listening to people’s albums. Why would I respond to disses right now? People are trying to bring back the beef thing. They should realise that in the past two years, I’ve refrained from that. I was dissing with the guy like three years ago. It is 2018, I’m 28 years, I want to do collabos with the likes of Jay Z, Cassper, and AKA. So taking me back to Octo limits my progression.”

He added: “You know I’m the OG. If I was to diss a person, I’d have done that. Mimi siekangi mtu. Octo nimemueka on the side. I feel that story pulls me back. Octo is always dissing me in most of his songs but I never take it. If he feels like he needs to rap about me, it’s all good.”

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Award-winning musician Habida Maloney has noted with great concern that it is tough being a female musician in Kenya.

According to Habida, Kenyan artistes are the most hardworking people in the entertainment industry. She said most musicians have been consistent in releasing their music but noted that it is tough being in the industry, especially for female musicians in the secular industry.

“This is the reason why few women sing secular music. It is quite unfortunate that women in the music industry are still not yet taken seriously. Most of the time we end being paid less than what male singers earn,” she said.

She further noted that many corporates do not use female artistes regularly in their events.

“As musicians, we also struggle. Making a good track is expensive and people are not paying for shows. Our songs are not getting played over and over. There are many issues that need to be fixed,” she said.

Habida’s sentiments come as Kenyan female musicians switch from secular to gospel.

Habida, who started her music career more than five years ago, moved to South Africa and was signed by Gallo Records in 2016. But she returned home the following year.

Asked why, the ‘Sunshine’ hitmaker said; “I felt like God was calling me home. I had to promote my own country because our music doesn’t cross borders much.”

She said the music industry needs a lot of support to help aspiring artistes to thrive.

“I would advise upcoming artistes not to join music if their hearts are not in it. This is an industry where you should not care about making money until years later.”

The “My Reason” singer has released an extended playlist that is a short version of an album, that has three songs and a remix. She is also working on reality TV show.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Kenyan female disc jockey and media personality Pierra Makena has embarked on a mission to shed off some of her enviable curves.

The former Ebru TV presenter on Saturday started a 60-day strict diet and fitness program with a view to losing 18 kgs. Pierra, who now weighs 78 kgs, says she gained 35 kgs after giving birth to her daughter, Ricca Pokőt, who turns two in July.

Maintaining that she loves her curves as they are, the Disconnect’ actress said she is hitting the gym on doctor’s orders.

“Don’t get me wrong. I’m ok with the way I look but my doc says I have to drop some weight.

“After my baby, I gained 35kg… I was 85kgs… I decided not to pressure myself since I was trying to figure out how to be a great mom to my LO. I believe I’m ready now to drop the kgs and I’m doing 60 days first to kick start me. So far without working out and all I have dropped 7 kgs. I’m now at 78kgs. My target is 60kgs. So I have 18kgs to drop,” wrote Pierra on Instagram on Day 1 at the Ultra Fitness Gym.

Pierra’s fitness journey comes months after she was the victim of fat-shaming when Pulse, a pull-out from Standard newspaper, took shots at her post-pregnancy body in its fashion segment dubbed ‘Fashion Police.’

The article was titled ‘Pierra showcases her baby fat.’

VIDEO: Watch Pierra Makena Strut her Curves on Live TV to Slam Fat-Shaming Magazine

Pierra last month quit Ebru TV where she was one of the hosts of the “Let’s Talk Show’ saying she was prioritising her happiness.

“Sometimes in life you feel that your happiness needs to be a priority and you take necessary steps to achieve that,” said Pierra in her statement.

Well, one of those steps seems to be hitting the gym.

The photos

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Gospel musician Kevin Bahati recently unveiled his record label’s(EMB) newest addition, Rebecca Soki Kalwenze.

The Kenyan based Congolese musician opened up to Buzz about her struggle to burst into the local gospel music scene and what she intends to bring to the EMB stable.

Many people have only learnt about you after your unveiling, has your musical journey just began?

Not really. I started doing music as a little girl back home in Congo. My dad is a pastor and he got me enrolled in the church choir. That’s how I started singing. Basically, I would say I have been singing all my life, regardless of the places I have been to.

So how did you end up in Kenya?

I came here in 2006, being a part of a missionary team from Congo that came to start a church in Nairobi. I was the head of the choir team.

However, I was only here for a year and a half, then went back to Congo to finish my studies, before returning to Kenya in 2011 with the full intention of focusing my energies in starting my career as a gospel artiste. Too bad, it didn’t turn out so well as I had expected.

2011 to date isn’t such a long time to get people to finally notice your work?

It has been a hustle my brother, a seven-year struggle, to break into the gospel industry. But I am grateful that at last I get to see some light at the end of the tunnel.

I can attest to that, if the response I have received for my first single under EMB “Baraka Zangu” is anything to go by. God’s timing is surely the best.

What was the seven years’ struggle like, being a foreigner trying to break into the Kenyan market?

Doing music is not a walk in the park, any artiste will tell you that. Whereas I was dedicated to the course, I lacked the finances and the correct people to push me through. I did a couple of collabos here that would have put me on the map, but, like I said, a lack of proper management team stalled my advancement. At some point I got signed to labels that only exploited me, they would distribute my music via different apps or sell it as ring back tones but I wouldn’t get a dime. They’d also organise shows that I ended up not getting paid for, as they took everything. But what made it even worse was when I was poisoned.

Did you say, poisoned? Why would someone do that to you?

Yes, you got me right, some people who pretended to be my friends spiked my milk and that’s how I ended up consuming the poison.  For a whole year I couldn’t speak, I lost the ability to talk and all I could do was to just whisper. This was the breaking point of my struggle in music. I decided to quit and go back home.

Wait a minute, why would your friends poison you?

I have never known why, but I think they felt I posed a threat and that  someday I would eventually burst into the limelight. Clearly, they weren’t happy about it. These ‘friends’ are my fellow musicians from Congo and together we had been struggling to make careers in Kenya.

During the period of our hustle, I travelled to Dubai for a mission that I had been invited to. I was going to spend some time there and so I left the key to my house in Nairobi with one of my trusted friends.

I had warned her about inviting these other fake friends to my residence, but for some reason they were able to convince her that they never meant any harm. So they kept visiting my place.

When they learnt of my intended return in September 2016, that’s when they paid a visit as usual and spiked my milk.

When I drunk it, I collapsed. Interestingly, they even visited me at home while I was in bad health, I guess they just came to check if I was actually dying.

So what followed?

I remained on treatment for the whole year without telling my parents because I did not want them panicking, bearing in mind I was kilometers away from home. But after exhausting my savings, that’s when I decided to return home in 2017, swearing to never come back to Kenya.

But that did not happen?

It didn’t. At home I kept praying to God to never make me return to Kenya. I said, if it’s serving Him, I can do that even in Congo. I wasn’t ready to spend a single cent from my hustle to come back.

But again I prayed hard that if I was to return to Kenya, then God should provide a stranger who would pay my air ticket back and offer support until I would find my footing again. And true to His word, that’s how Bahati came for me.

You mean BahatI travelled to Congo to fetch you?

No, he didn’t. But during that time, while back home, I fully recovered and started singing again in church. Throughout this time, Bahati had been looking for me in Kenya; he had just started the EMB Records.

We had met before in various gospel functions like Groove Awards and he had told me how he was a great fan of my works, despite me being not in the limelight.

So, when he couldn’t find me in Kenya he sent me a text on Whatsapp to make contact. He wanted me to come back but I remained reluctant, and he kept insisting. At the last point he offered to pay for my air ticket and and promised to look after me for a while. That’s how I made my return.

So what’s the pact between you and EMB?

Hehehe! I will not go into details, but I am grateful of the terms. I will get to record music under the label, they will do the pushing of the content, get gigs for me, among other things. Besides, currently EMB is taking care of my rent bills for a given time and once that time is up, I will soldier on, haha!

“Baraka Zangu” has been massive what next?

I am so grateful and I look forward to doing more. However, I can’t promise much for now because it’s like I am starting to build my foundation all over again, but time will tell.

Lastly, a few influencers in the gospel industry have compared you to the late Angelina Chibalonza. What do you make of this?

Since the time I arrived in Kenya, I have been told that very often. It’s a positive compliment for me and I have a feeling it could be God talking through people. I look forward to emulating her because she clearly blessed so many souls with her music.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Petra Bockle is a rising rap star and one of the most promising femcees out of Kenya. Her raw and hard-hitting rap style has seen her get likened to America’s Cardi B.

She is currently riding high on her most recent release – I Got That – featuring Victoria Kimani. Before “I Got That”, Petra killed it on the “Khali Cartel” alongside Khaligraph Jones.

What most people don’t know about Petra is her personal life. She talked to Pulse:

You’re quite different in person from your rap persona. How comes?

I get that a lot. I’m introverted. I do better by myself and get nervous around huge crowds. The rap persona just happens to come out whenever I’m in the studio. That’s the way I express myself. Otherwise, I’m a chilled out person.

How would you do describe yourself?

I am all about family. I love being a mom and wife. I’m God-fearing, above everything else. And as you might have guessed, music is my passion. I got the passion for music from my dad.

Before he passed on, he had all these vinyl records at his place and used to be a DJ from time to time. I get the strong will from my mom. I am the middle child of 2 siblings.

You grew up in Mombasa. How would you compare the coastal city to Nairobi where you now reside?

Nairobi is much faster. It definitely has more opportunities and people are generally more focused on their careers.

After Ligi Soo, it’s like you just fell of the wagon. What happened?

If you see my catalogue from last year, it’s consistent. That’s because everything was planned. When the remix (Ligi Soo) came out, I still had no inside knowledge of how the industry works. I took a break to strategise and learn. I did not want to come out with just another sub-standard product. It’s also around the same time I settled down to start a family.

It’s not every other day you hear of 19 year-old girls ready to settle down and start a family. What prompted that?

I’ve always lacked patience for flings and short-term relationships. I wanted to grow up and have a family like my mom. My husband was actually shocked when I first told him that I want to get married and start a family. I actually asked him if he was game.

How did you two meet?

I’ve known him actually since I was 15 years old. He was way older, there’s a 9-year gap in our age, which was a plus for him. He brushed me off during those early years.

He actually said I was too young. Fast forward year later, we have been together for 6 years and been married for 4 years. I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Was it like a church wedding or at the Attorney General’s? And why was it like a secret wedding? The public only got to know about it months later…

It was an AG office marriage. We decided to go for a small, intimate ceremony as both of our parents weren’t able to attend because of other commitments. My mom was out of the country on the set date. Actually, we just celebrated our fourth wedding anniversary this past Monday.

So we decided that perhaps we’ll do a bigger more public one in one of our future anniversaries.

Why him though, at 19, he met all your qualifications?

He’s mature. He has the utmost respect for women and respects God. That’s what attracted me to him. He was different from other guys, years later.

I’m sure a lot of artistes wanted to work with you after Ligi Soo remix. Is there a particular formula one needs to have to land a collabo with Petra?

I respect Tanzania’s Diamond a lot. Actually I look up to him. And I wouldn’t mind if he refused to do a collabo with me. I would fully understand. He has gone out of his way to grow his fan base and numbers.

If you have low numbers and I’m also here trying to push my digits up, I don’t see how we can help each other much. Push as I pull on the opposite side and perhaps one day we can do a project together when the timing is right. It has to be the right fit for us to work together.

Tell us about your daughter?

She’s like her mummy. Fast learner and determined to get her way in every way.

How is it balancing being a mom and a showbiz star?

It is tough. Like now, the nanny had to leave and I couldn’t get someone to look after the baby to make it to this press interview. But I’m learning a lot and the hubby is really supportive.

What about school? Where did you go to school?

I was in Aga Khan International School till Year 8 when I got suspended. Some fellow classmates, being teenagers, started teasing me when my dad did not show up for a parents meeting. I’ve always kept to myself and they didn’t know my dad had passed away.

Their insults kept coming and I honestly felt provoked. That’s when the rap persona that you see in my music came out. They were 3, I beat them up real good. They didn’t see it coming. I later got suspended. I refused to go back after the suspension and my mom later got me admitted to Coast Academy where I finished my senior school.

I did air ticketing at Aviation College but that was about it for me a far as college is concerned. I paused for a bit to allow my sister to proceed with her University education as our family had financial constraints that couldn’t allow us to both pay for our tuition fees.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire