Pop musician Avril is getting the hang of being a new mother to her first child.

The songbird, who delivered her son last year, has shared how motherhood has changed her life. In a recent interview with Kiss 100, Avril admitted to facing challenges, especially during the first couple of months.

“Motherhood has it’s trials, especially for a new mum right at the beginning when it hasn’t quite hit you that this is your life now; but it’s the most rewarding chapter of my life that I have ever found myself in,” said Avril.

Adding: “It’s teaching me a  love that I never knew existed, patience that has brought me so much peace.”

On balancing work and raising her child, Avril noted that she’s lucky because she is self-employed.

“The fatigue at the beginning weighed me and I’ll admit got me a bit loopy, but once I got a hang of things I started being a very happy tired person.

“Later I think the greatest challenge started being striking that balance as a working mother. I am fortunate to be self-employed so I spend a lot of time with my son, but there comes a time when I need to travel for a couple of days; that’s usually pretty hard for me especially emotionally. The first time was the worst.” 

In a past interview, Avril said she was not a single mother as had been alluded by some people.

While she declined to reveal the man’s identity, Avril spoke fondly about him saying he is her best friend and is supportive.

“I am not a single mom. The father of the child supports me and supports the child.”

She added: “Our friendship is very close, we had to make sure that we have a very strong friendship and a very strong relationship so that we can be able to raise our child, so that’s exactly where we are. He’s amazing, he is my best friend.”

On if the man if J Blessing, Avril responded: “If at any one point in time I’ll feel like talking about the father of my child I will but at this particular time I don’t think it’s necessary. But if J Blessing comes for an interview ask him that question.”

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Seasoned radio personality Nick Odhiambo is in mourning following the loss of his unborn child.

The Radio Maisha presenter was this year expecting a bouncing baby boy, supposedly with his girlfriend, Lydia. Unfortunately, life threw Nick and his partner a curveball, and they lost their child, whom they named J’lani.

Nick Odhiambo announced the sad news on social media, revealing how he had been looking forward to J’lani’s birthday.

“The countdown to your birthday cut short…. Sometimes life just throws you a curve ball !!!..but it is what it is..lil’ J’lani R.I.P.. My son didn’t make it to see this beautiful world,” wrote Nick Odhiambo.

The celebrated radio presenter is the latest Kenyan celeb to lose his unborn child. At least three public figures have lost their babies in the last six months.

Last December, Size 8 and her husband DJ Mo lost their child after the gospel singer suffered a miscarriage. They were expecting their second born.

About three months before, DJ Creme also lost his unborn baby after his wife Denise suffered a miscarriage. She was about six months pregnant.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Gospel star Bahati has finally released his highly anticipated first project of 2019.

Dubbed ‘Nyota’, Swahili for star, the track has left Bahati’s fans confused as he sings about being indebted to Jesus who died on the cross for him.

At the same time, Bahati sings that he has been looking for his star while featuring a video vixen in the music video released on Wednesday afternoon.

This has made fans of the singer question why he needed a video vixen to feature in visuals of a song supposedly sung to praise God. Some wondered if the star he is singing about is the girl or God while others claimed the song is more secular than gospel.

One YouTube user, Kanini Martin, commented: “You are now 2nd trending Secular artist Right now, willy Paul makes the 1st… Gospel aachia wenyewe, Hakuna vile unaeza sema Mungu ni Nyota na umeshoot Video na Dame, ain’t a hater but hii nayo sio Gospel….. Mapenzi imewaeza kweli vijana.”

“A good song but you don’t need to have that lady she’s bringing confusion to the theme of that good song,” said kobejeyro.

A concerned Samson Murimi advised: “Baha lakini young gospel artists acheni kwenda mkitoka kwa maandiko sana,mnajaribu kubadilisha gospel inakaa secular like.stick to one side,review songs za hapo mwanzo na saa hii.”

Watch ‘Nyota’ below. We are rating this 4/10.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

East African Powerhouse group Elani has released the visuals for the second single ‘Jinsi’ off their sophomore album, ‘Colours of Love’.

The love song album is an unfolding love story which journeys through all the five phases of a relationship, representing each with a colour.

The colours include Yellow representing puppy love, Red for a couple falling in love, Grey is for when doubts come into the relationship and someone starts picking calls in another room, Black is for the break-up, and then the White phase is for when they find hope again.

The vastly talented trio of Maureen Kunga, Brian Chweya and Wambui Ngugi describes ‘Jinsi’ as follows:  “We are still in the yellow phase of love, falling deeper and deeper into our feelings with this feel-good, wedding vibe song.”

‘Jinsi’ is also the band’s final song from the yellow phase of love. It is produced by Paul Kyende and Saint P and mixed and mastered by Musyoka.

Watch the lyric video for ‘Jinsi’ below. Our rating 8.5/10.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Bahati’s EMB Records has lost another signee in gospel singer Mr Seed who has ditched the stable after two years.

The unexpected move comes two years after the record label’s first signee, Weezdom, quit for greener pastures after just one year under Bahati’s management.

Mr Seed took to social media on Tuesday to announce the end of his short stint at EMB Records. He said he has decided to go independent.

“After 2 SUCCESSFUL YEARS being signed under EMB records I have FINALLY DECIDED to go INDEPENDENT and be MY OWN ARTIST for the sole purpose of paving way for other YOUNG AND COMING ARTISTS that BAHATI has been taking in that needs more the platform and support that EMB have offered to me and can offer, I also in return would like to NURTURE OTHER UPCOMING ARTISTS for it has been a DREAM FOR TOO LONG NOW to do something about the TALENTED YOUNG ARTISTS that need that just one push to realize their dream,” said Mr Seed.

The expectant dad was also keen to avoid speculation as he asserted that he will remain “brothers” with Bahati.

“ME and BAHATI still remain BROTHERS and ill always wish him the VERY BEST IN EVERYTHING HE DOES. if there will be other STORIES that will RISE UP I will address them to everyone coz am already getting words on the streets that are not pleasing to my ears…anyways WE START YEAR 2019 ON A HIGH NOTE, this year we make more MOVES and WIN MORE SOULS…continue watching the space and continue supporting me as I push this GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST .. 2019 IS MY TIME!! #STARBORNEMPIRE.”

Bahati responded in the comments section wishing Mr Seed all the best.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Tributes continue to pour in for Grammy-winning R&B legend James Ingram who died on Tuesday, January 29.

The singer/songwriter died aged 66 after battling brain cancer for an extended period.

Ingram, who moved many with his soulful voice during his decades-long career, has two Grammys to his name and 14 nominations.

Celebrities such as Quincy Jones, Kenny Lattimore, Maxwell are among those who have paid tribute to the soul legend.

Ingram’s passing has also been felt closer home, with a host of musicians and fans of the R&B legend taking to social media to pay tribute to the “I Don’t Have the Heart” singer.

Kenyan radio King, Maina Kageni, who is arguably one of the biggest fans of James Ingram, was among those who mourned the singer with a heartfelt post on social media.

In his tribute, the Classic 105 FM presenter recalled hosting James Ingram and his wife, Debra, on his radio show.

“James Edward Ingram….. what a VOICE!!! What a songwriter!! You told me that a songwriter with an ear for a killer melody was a songwriter after your own heart…. aaahhh…. you’re gone…. couples met through your music as “Party Animals”, broke up when you told them that “There’s No Easy Way (To Break Somebody’s Heart)”, got back together when you and Linda Ronstadt were looking for somebody “Somewhere Out There”… they fell in love again when you promised them that they’d be together “Forever More”…. they got married to your music… they promised ” One Hundred Ways” to love each other… You said to me that your biggest regret was never working with Babyface…. Only God knows why…. that would have been too much to take!!!!!!! But you worked with the best (Michael Jackson, Quincy Jones, Linda Ronstadt, Michael McDonald)…. You had a voice that resonated through generations because forget Reggae for now, but because NOBODY CAN STOP A GREAT SONGWRITER!!! You came to Kenya, came onto my show with your beautiful wife Debra, who told me that she couldn’t stand your singing all over the house!!! Can’t win ’em all, can you? I’m sad that you’re gone, mostly because YOU WERE THE SOUNDTRACK TO MY LIFE!!! But you made my little world a lot better… and a whole lot bigger… Thank you, Mr Ingram… “I Don’t Have The Heart” to say goodbye…… but I pray that you get the just reward your gift gave us….. you trusted your art, your voice and YOURSELF!!! I trust that you’ll be good… after all, like you sang, “Yah Mo Be There”!!!!!! Rest well, JAMES INGRAM…. rest well…. and THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC!!!!!!!!! #RIPJamesIngram#ThankYouForTheMusic #RIP.”

Check out some more tributes below:

I have lost my dearest friend and creative partner James Ingram to the Celestial Choir. He will always be cherished, loved and remembered for his genius, his love of family and his humanity. I am blessed to have been so close. We will forever speak his name. pic.twitter.com/TDJfpbbJWa

— Debbie Allen (@msdebbieallen) January 29, 2019

2019 needs to chill. Rest easy James Ingram pic.twitter.com/h1UxapbOhy

— SAUTI SOL (@sautisol) January 30, 2019

Today I celebrate the life of James Ingram. His unmistakable voice and songwriting genius set a standard of excellence for me… James Ingram paved the way for me to sing love songs with intent and authenticity. pic.twitter.com/L0cMK2s1UV

— Kenny Lattimore (@kennylattimore) January 29, 2019

I mourn James Ingram. May his soul Rest In Peace. A legend he will always be. pic.twitter.com/IUeEtdkrGM

— Hon. William Kabogo (@honkabogo) January 30, 2019

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Oh I loved James Ingram. Grew up listening to his music! RIP “It’s your night.” “No easy way.” “Ya Mo Be There.” pic.twitter.com/EV2gIdcVKK

— Carol Radull (@CarolRadull) January 30, 2019

RIP the great James Ingram, a vocalist all vocalists looked up to

— josh groban (@joshgroban) January 29, 2019

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

The future of the Kenyan music industry is in safe hands if new cool kids on the block, such as Charisma and rapper Mbithi, are anything to go by.

The two vastly talented new age music acts have teamed up to great effect in a fresh collaborative project that, in my own opinion, is the best the 254 has seen and heard so far this year.

Dubbed ‘Unavyonipenda’, this beautiful romantic piece could not have come at a better time with Valentine’s Day just around the corner.

‘Unavyonipenda’ is a Swahili word that means ‘the way you love me’. The track sees Charisma and the Kamba boy Mbithi affirming their love to their lovers and assuring them that they are there for them to the end inspite of what life throws their way. The lyrics emphasize the same in a beautifully well-written way.

‘Unanivyonipenda’ is also special in that it is Charisma’s first solo project without Le Band.

The song was written by Charisma and Mbithi, produced by Jopee, mixed and mastered by Jaaz Odongo, and recorded at Box House Media. The video concept by Charisma and Mbithi was implemented by renowned director Johnson Kyalo R.

‘Unavyonipenda’ is the stuff we talk about when we say we want quality Kenyan content.

It’s hard to fault anything in the song and, therefore, we are rating it 10/10.

Watch below.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Controversial gospel singer Ringtone Apoko has made some sensational claims about why Mr Seed has fallen out with Bahati.

In a video shared on his Instagram, Ringtone says that he talked to Mr Seed who revealed to him that Bahati called the police on his pregnant girlfriend Nimo Gachuiri on New Year’s Eve.

According to Ringtone, Nimo Gachuiri wanted to conduct some business during the NYE EMB Jesus Party at Thika Stadium but Bahati’s wife, Diana Marua, felt some typa way.

Apparently, Bahati and a jealous Diana Marua called the cops on Nimo. Ringtone, however, noted that Mr Seed and Bahati are not disclosing the full story and they should speak up and tell the truth.

“Hey guys leo nataka kuongelea hii beef ya Bahati na Mr. Seed. Kusema ukweli nilikuwa na Mr. Seed na aliniambia ati Bahati aliitia bibi yake askari kwa sababu ya show ya 31st yenye ilikuwa Thika Stadium. Na bibi ya Mr. Seed kuna biz alikuwa achape hapo alafu bibi ya Bahati akasikia wivu ndio wakamuitia maasakari. Kama ni hivyo by the way si poa. Mimi nataka tu kusema kuna kitu hamtuambii, Lakini mkituambia itakuwa poa, nimepiga number ya Bahati haingii nikipiga number ya Seed haingii,” says Ringtone in the short clip.

Mr Seed also appeared to confirm Ringtone’s story as he took to his Instagram to share a cryptic post about Nimo being disrespected.

He wrote: “I respect her so much and if av never DISRESPECTED her no one can do that .. Advice: NEVER ALLOW ANYONE FRIENDS OR WHOEVER DISRESPECT YOUR WOMAN KWANZA WHEN SHES CARRYING YOUR BABY SO WRONG!!”

In his Instastories, Mr Seed also shared a screenshot of his mother’s comment encouraging him to take heart.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Gidi Gidi, real name Joseph Oyoo, is considered one of the pioneers of Kenyan urban music. As part of the Gidi Gidi Maji Maji duo, the Luo rappers dominated the airwaves with hits such as ‘Unbowgable’ and ‘Ting Badi Malo’.

However, life happened, and in 2005, Gidi Gidi Maji Maji was no more.

Gidi Gidi is now a radio presenter hosting one of the most popular radio shows in the country.

He spoke to Buzz about his 20-year journey in showbiz and even spared some advice on how the local music industry can improve.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

CDM Kiratu is a veteran Kikuyu singer/songwriter who rose to fame after writing a song about then-President Jomo Kenyatta.

Kiratu was only 19 and in college when he received an invite from the late Kenyatta. From then on, his life changed for the better as he became rich and famous.

But Kiratu spent his earnings on extravagance, mostly cars, something he acknowledges is a mistake most musicians make.

He spoke to the Nairobian:

You ruled the airwaves ages ago. Who really is CDM Kiratu?

My full name is Christopher David Mwaura (CDM) Kiratu. I am a staunch Catholic and was born in 1952. I’m an alumnus of Nyandarua High School and Kenyatta College, currently Kenyatta University.

You were supposed to read a tribute on behalf of musicians during the burial of Joseph Kamaru in October 2018.What happened?

It is true I was supposed to read the tribute, but I would rather forget about it. What most musicians feel concerned about is the fact that we were not given a chance to thank the president for his historic support during the burial. We didn’t get an opportunity to thank Kamaru’s fans who made his music career a success.

What was your relationship with Kamaru?

Kamaru was a mentor and a close friend. We became friends in 1972 when I released my first hit song. He was also the best man in my wedding. That is the only time he wore a tie. He liked my music and I liked his as well. He used to advise me on many things, including family matters.

There was a special kind of bond between us because when I was starting out in music as a young man, he made sure I accompanied him whenever he was meeting influential people, including former presidents at State House. We had several collaborations, like Chumbucha Ndari and JM Kariuki. Because of him, I became a household name in Kiambu and the entire country.

How come you no longer compose songs?

I have not stopped composing songs. It’s just that I have not recorded the songs because of lack of resources and family commitments. I plan to start recording next month.

Do you compose music from real life experience or is it from imagination?

I get inspired by both. A song like Kaba Kuinuka (I better go home) is based on a true story. I was working in Nairobi and was not making enough money, so I used the song to advise young men who were suffering in the city to go home and try their luck in the village. That was in the early 70s when I was working for an insurance company as a claims officer, earning Sh700 per month.

I used to compose songs even then and on leaving the insurance company, I decided to record Mugathe Kenyatta (Honourable Kenyatta). This is the hit that thrust me into the limelight. On the other hand, Therera Ngoro (open your heart) is a song that I composed out of pure imagination. Actually, I took the role of a woman and it became a darling for women to date.

Did the Kenyatta song shape your career?

I was 19 years old at the time, studying at the Kenyatta College. I remember very well the day Jomo Kenyatta invited me to Gatundu. He wanted to see the young man who had sung for him and he sent PC John Mburu to come and look for me in school. I was so worried because I thought maybe Mzee was angry. I was surprised and pleasantly relieved when he patted me on the back and told me it was a great song. I was in Form Five at the time.

Of all your songs, which is your favourite?

I released Ngoro Yakwa I Limuru (my heart is in Limuru) because I was inspired to sing about my hood. A strong force inspired me to sing this particular song and it topped the charts and opened many doors for me. I’m the only person who has managed to sing songs in Kikuyu, Kiswahili and English.

Do you still make a living from your music?

No. Music can’t sustain me now. The culture of buying CDs and the kind of shows I get are not well paying. But then again, the marketing strategies have changed drastically and collective management organisations (CMO) have let us down.

You cannot live on music alone. It’s good to save when you can and are making good money. I made a mistake because I never invested in assets like land. I only bought cars. Money was not a problem back then, but I ended up selling the cars when I got broke. The problem that we have as musicians is that we live for today and fail to invest. Musicians should invest if they don’t want to die poor.

You can become a one-man guitarist…

I cannot sing other people’s songs. Other artistes sing my songs and that is how they survive. For the last 40 years, I have only sung my own songs. I’m a brand. Perhaps when performing, I can honour a special request to sing other people’s songs.

What happened to Benga music?

Benga will remain Kenya’s best and most famous music genre, spanning over 60 years. Remember music defines generations and therefore it’s dynamic. It has to change. Benga music has not been replaced sufficiently by any other beat. It’s still important, though it is going through changes.

You are the most famous musician from Limuru. Why hasn’t the area produced other artistes?

I’m not the only known musician in Limuru. There are others, though their music has not spread that far. I have mentored the likes of James Waweru Maingi, Peter Kigia, Kimani Thomas, Kajohnny Kariuki, Mwalimu Muna, Jose Gatutura and Jimmy wa Euny. This shows diversity because the musicians I have just mentioned are from Limuru and other areas across the country.

What ails Kenyan music and how can we develop it?

Poor government policies emanating from lack of political goodwill in failing to register new laws to safeguard the interest of the musicians are a major setback. Young musicians lack direction and finances. But lack of political goodwill is a big problem today. Kamaru’s rise to stardom for instance was made possible due to the fact that he was close to Jomo Kenyatta, Kamotho and Njonjo.

Other factors that affecting our music include piracy and poor royalty collection. We can develop local music by protecting it against piracy. Music should also be taught in schools and each county should establish talent centres and music studios.

You were once the chair of the Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK)…

I was a director at MCSK and also a member of the Kenya Music Festival executive committee. Kenya is a haven of talent in terms of music, but the CMO has let us down.

If the CMO doesn’t collect money for like three years, then the artiste suffers. I believe that a good regulation framework will benefit artistes and enable them to prosper.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Pop singer Kendi was at one time tipped to be a force to be reckoned with in the Kenya music industry. However, due to misunderstandings with her former record label – Mainswitch Records – her music career never really took off.

Kendi is now making what she refers to as her final comeback; if it doesn’t work out this time, she says she is done with singing.

Her comeback single is dubbed ‘Love Me’, just in time for the upcoming Valentine’s Day.

Kendi spoke to Pulse about her comeback, why she doesn’t need a man, and more:

Word on the street is that you are dating another white man. Are you settling down?

That sounds really crazy. I have also heard that white man story.

So are you, like, married to one or should we expect a Valentine’s shocker of this big wedding this month since you have also released a song called ‘Love Me’?

The white man I could have been spotted with must be Robert Palazzo from Europe who happens to be my manager. He is more than a dad to me and I can confirm that he has never hit on me.

Does he have anything to do with Manikos Restaurant, the Swiss restaurant where you were appointed entertainment manager and marketer?

You are probably the first ones to hear this, but the fact is that the guys who run the place are also funding my music right now.

Together, we are running Belazzo Entertainment Company where I also have shares. I have been working with them since I got disappointed at Mainswitch Entertainment.

I also have my own producer, Scott Figures, who used to work with Madugu Digital. Many things have changed.

Are you dating?

I am off men for now. Every time I start dating, men take me back like six months so why do I need one? The next time I date one, it will be somebody I can do without. Period.

Before we move back to your producer issues, what is this story of you g0ing broke and selling your car and house?

I didn’t sell but moved house. But it is true I sold my car. I did both as I wanted to scale down and raise enough money to record an album but that turned out so badly after Mainswitch failed me.

I am still bitter with what Philo of Mainswitch told me on the last day we met over the deal. I invested my time in studio recording songs that were never released.

To record a song, one has to part with like Sh20, 000 for audio recording and Sh250,000 for a serious video, so you can understand why artistes are giving up especially when one cannot raise such money.

Mainswitch only managed to release one of my songs and when I made a follow-up, Philo was rude to me as he told me off, saying he would rather work with more promising artistes.

From 2016 to 2018, I have nothing much to show in my music career because of all this even after I moved to a single room to cut living costs and make music.

This must be painful

This is what many Kenyan artistes go through. I have had many coming to ask for food and also ask for money as they can hardly afford to take care of basic needs.

The problem is that local recording stables sign-up artistes yet they cannot afford to produce them. I even asked my new partners to try work from Mainswitch studios but Philo was unwelcoming.

That is why I have hired my own producer who is on a retainer all year. We plan to do about eight songs per year. Thing is, if this comeback does not work, then I am done with singing. I have been in this industry for 15 years now.

But it is not as if you have been all idle…

Not really. As the entertainment manager and marketer at Manikos Restaurant, so much as been going on with me and my band.

I have hosted the likes of Avril, Atemi, Sanaipei Tande, Jua Cali, Jaguar and Bahati among others who have been supporting my art.

At the point I wanted to give up, it was Jaguar who came looking for me and asked me to hold on. He has been such a motivation.

What is this new sound you are working on?

I am working on a distinct sound that gives my music an edge beyond the local setting and fans. My focus has shifted from just looking at the local market to international. In the next few months, expect a lot of the new Kendi touring Africa and the world.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Abel Mutua, one of the first cast members of high school comedy-drama ‘Tahidi High’, has disclosed that his biological father abandoned them after his mother gave birth to the actor’s younger brother.

Speaking with Radio Jambo’s Massawe Japanni recently, Abel Mutua said that he was only five years old at the time.

“He left us when I was only five years old. He went and married another woman, who had one kid, and did not sire any other kid with her,” said the scriptwriter.

Abel further revealed that since then, he has met his father only once in his lifetime.

“I met him in 2013, and I am the one who told him our mum died. I felt for sure he was never in my life,” he said.

The ‘Hapa Kule’ actor said when his dad abandoned them, his mother remarried again when he was 14.

“I was raised by a step-father who came in with his five children and my mother had two, and later my mother gave birth to one child. He was and is still a great person in our lives,” said Mutua.

The ‘Sue na Jonnie’ writer also opened up about the birth of his daughter saying it was traumatising.

“The birth of our daughter traumatised us so much because we were not doing well then, and that is why we have not had a second child yet,” he said.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Kelvin Mwangi is without a doubt one of the biggest breakout stars in the Kenyan comedy scene. The usually soft-spoken actor found his niche by playing a socialite’s character, Shaniqwa, something that his director advised him to try.

Shaniqwa is now one of the most popular characters in the industry, all thanks to Kelvin Mwangi’s bravery to take on such a controversial character.

Over the years, Shaniqwa has become a popular social media figure whose personal life is now of interest to hundreds of thousands of people.

Kevin has been dating one Naomi Jemutai who has just delivered the couple’s firstborn child, named Khangi.

On his Instagram page on Monday, Kelvin broke the news to his over 370,000 followers, writing: “Newest DAD in town!!!! #thankyouLord #BABAKHANGI.”

Shaniqwa and Jemutai join a host of Kenyan celebrities who have given birth in the last 6 months, including Janet Mbugua, Lillian Muli, Faith Muturi, Lulu Hassan, and Ripser Faith.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Further proof that things are not rosy between former best friends and gospel artists Bahati and Mr Seed has emerged.

This after Bahati and his wife Diana Marua conspicuously missed a baby shower to celebrate the expected birth of Mr Seed and his wife Nimo Gachuiri’s first born child.

Nimo Gachuiri was over the weekend treated to a lavish black and yellow themed baby shower at Ridgeviews Inn along Kiambu Road.

Family and close friends of the couple graced the fun-filled gift-giving party as seen in pictures shared on social media.

However, it is the absence of Bahati and Diana Marua in the event that has raised questions. Last year, the two couples were quite tight and even went on holiday together.

Bahati and Diana Marua have also not taken to social media to celebrate their friends as has always been the case.

This comes after Mr Seed unceremoniously left Bahati’s record label, EMB Records after just two years.

It later emerged that Diana Marua might have caused the rift between Mr Seed and Bahati leading to the fallout.

According to Ringtone, a heated argument on New Years Eve saw Marua call the cops on Nimo for allegedly putting up a tea stand at Thika Stadium where Bahati was performing.

Diana Marua has since come under sharp criticism from fans on social media who claim that she is jealous of Nimo.

The same fans also noticed and celebrated the absence of Diana Marua and Bahati at Nimo’s baby shower.

The photos;

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Otile Brown is on a roll!

Just two weeks after releasing ‘Kenyan Girl’, which has since garnered close to 1 million views on YouTube, Otile Brown is back with yet another smash hit.

Dubbed ‘Crush’, the love song comes just in time for the Valentine’s Day celebration. According to Otile Brown, ‘Crush’ is his Valentine’s gift to his fans.

“Hii ni Zawadi yenu ya Valentines ..#Crush ni ya wapenzi wenye wamekua kwenye uhusiano kwa mda mrefu ila bado mapenzi hayajapungua .. Hii ni ya wazazi wetu , shangazi na wajomba zetu, ndugu na dada zetu wakubwa …we look up to you,” says Otile.

Crush audio was produced by Teddy B while the video has been directed by highly acclaimed Tanzanian director Hanscana, the brains behind Diamond Platnumz’ music videos.

In the video, Otile Brown has a Crush on Tanzanian model and beauty queen Nelly Alexandra Kamwelu, who won the Miss Universe Tanzania and Miss Southern Africa International titles in 2011.

Otile Brown has once again won over the ladies with this effort and, therefore, we’re giving it a solid 7/10.

Watch below.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Gospel music crooner Rufftone is still soldiering on following the death of his father Josephat Mwatia in October 2017.

The patriarch of the Mwatia family that includes Rufftone’s younger brother Daddy Owen succumbed to a sudden cardiac arrest.

Rufftone says his family knew they were going to lose their father. “We pleaded for his life like twice or so,” Rufftone told Word Is.

“There were instances he was taken ill and the situations looked out of control, but we kept on praying God to give us more time with him.”

The veteran musician said losing his father was one of the lowest moments of his life.

“I had nothing but to tell God thank you for lending us a father for all that time because to be honest, we knew he was given like 10 more years on ‘loan’. The only debt I had with God when dad died was to thank Him for his life,” Rufftone said.

According to the singer, his father was a strong pillar in his life and taught him valuable lessons about marriage.

“When I argue with my wife, I always remember that my dad told me that is part of the marriage package. He was so loving, protective, adviser, and he meant everything in our lives,” he said.

On his music career, Rufftone, who has been in the industry for more than 20 years, said nobody believed in him when he was starting out.

“I know it is God that has kept me relevant in the industry. Resources were not readily available. When I said I was going to venture into music, most people told me Kenyan music doesn’t pay,” he said.

“It even sounded weird that I would do music as a career because most people wanted me to look for a white-collar job.”

The lesson he has learnt in life is: “Better take care of what you have before you lose it. I learnt that with my dad because you never know when you will lose him,” he said.

The hitmaker is working on releasing four songs this year.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

When it rains, it pours! This seems to be the case for Kenya’s embattled gospel star Bahati who has another scandal on his plate.

This is after a Sweden-based promoter came out accusing the musician of defrauding him money amounting to about half a million shillings.

The complainant, Clay Onyango, claims he entered a partnership with the singer and agreed to put up a studio, now EMB Records. He says he pumped money into the business venture until the studio was complete but a disagreement with Bahati soon followed.

This is his story:

“Hi guys, my name is Clay Onyango a Music promoter in Sweden. I also have a story about Bahati that l want to share. Some 2 years ago we agreed in going into partnership between my label World Music Promoters and EMB, so we agreed to build a Studio in Membley in a mansion he got. I paid the deposit and l started investing money in building the studio. When the studio was complete Bahati moved in and started Working while also recording some artists. So one day he calls Me and he is like, l understand u Are going around telling people that This studio is yours, l Don’t think l wonna Work With you. Calculate how much money u have invested and send Me your account Nbr. I did that and it has been one year now. The amount is almost 500 K and Bahati does not respond to my calls. Am sending u some photos of the studio and some photos of Me packing some of my stuff from the studio.”

The allegations come in the wake of a bitter fall out between Bahati and Mr Seed, who quit the former’s EMB records in unclear circumstances. It is alleged that Bahati owes Mr Seed money.

Here are the photos Onyango sent:

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Kenyan musicians have really woken up this year if a music comeback by former Tatuu member Angie Mwandanda ‘Shinde’ is anything to go by.

If you’re from a certain generation, you most certainly remember Tatuu; the all-girl music trio that served us hits such as “Haiya”, “Songea”, “Napepea”, “Solophobia”, and “Parapanda”.

Dubbed the Ogopalets after their producer Ogopa Deejays, the trio comprised of Angie ‘Rabbo’ Ndambuki, Debbie Asila and Angela ‘Shinde’ Mwandanda.

They were the hottest girls in the early 2000s and even danced for Nameless in his music videos for “Mannerless”, “Megarider” and “Majitu”.

Of the three, only Angie Ndambuki has been making headlines following her stints as CEO of Performers Rights Society of Kenya(PRISK) and later as CEO of Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI). She also worked at the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KHRC).

Debbie Asila(Shaffie Weru’s baby mama) has been in the TV scene while Shinde pursued a career in PR and kept promising a comeback.

Well, Shinde has finally kept her promise following the release of her comeback project, ‘Presha’.

To make ‘Presha’ nothing but the big comeback we have all been anticipating, Shinde has tapped a host of Kenyan creatives for this project. It features other Kenyan urban music veterans, Nameless and Big Pin, while also making room for new age artist Pascal Tokodi.

In ‘Presha’, Shinde and Co. are basically addressing the pressure to get married, asking to be given a break.

Main Song was written by Sauti Sol’s Bien-Aime Baraza. It was Co-Written by Shinde, Chris Adwar, Nyashinski, Mwalimu Rachel, Big Pin, Nameless, and Pascal.

Audio is produced by Ogopa DJs while the music video was filmed & directed by VJ One.

‘Presha’ is a certified hit. We’re totally loving the music that’s coming out of the 254 at the moment.

Watch below. Our rating 9/10.

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

Kenya’s top female rap star Stella Mwangi has been winning, that much we know.

Based all the way in Norway, STL has been repping the 254 to the fullest with her undeniable rap talent, and she has done it again.

Just months after she left an impression on American actor Dwayne The Rock Johnson, Stella Mwangi has now impressed US rapper Jay Rock.

Also Read: Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson Shout Outs Stella Mwangi for “Dope Lyrics” on ‘Ballers’ TV Show

Jay Rock is a California based rapper signed under independent record label Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE). He is also a member of the hip hop collective Black Hippy alongside fellow West Coast rappers and TDE label-mates Kendrick Lamar, Schoolboy Q and Ab-Soul.

The ‘WIN‘ rapper and Kenya’s very own Stella Mwangi met on Monday night in Norway where Jay Rock was performing for his Big Redemption Europen Tour.

Stella Mwangi, being a fan of Jay Rock, was at the concert, and as resourceful as we have always known her to be, she was able to get a one on one moment with the rapper and show him what a girl from Maragua, Murang’a County can do.

In a post on her Instagram Tuesday, Stella Mwangi shared a clip showing the moment she dropped some freestyle bars with Jay Rock keenly listening.

Stella tagged Jay Rock in the post and wrote: “Thanks for inspiring me last night #AfricaStandUP we bout to hit em with the drums.”

Jay Rock has since started following STL on Instagram, and we can only hope it is the beginning of a possible collaboration between the two. Perhaps even a collabo with Kendrick Lamar, who knows?

Watch Stella Mwangi freestyle for Jay Rock below. Scroll through for the full footage.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

@jayrock thanks for inspiring me last night #AfricaStandUP we bout to hit em with the drums cc @bigbtde @topdawgent @badiliakili

A post shared by STELLA MWANGI (@stellamwangi) on Feb 5, 2019 at 6:12am PST

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire

YouTube star Elodie Zone has confirmed her departure from NRG Radio.

Elodie has been serving at the radio station as a presenter and digital content manager for about eight months. She takes pride in having hosted the first show on radio, NRGStars, that speaks directly to the content creating community.

The vlogger has been hosting NRGStars with fellow vlogger Charlie Karumi since July last year before she decided to step down at the beginning of this year.

After much speculation about her conspicuous absence on the airwaves, Elodie Zone finally released a statement yesterday to clear the air.

“Though it’s been an awesome and unforgettable experience, I’m sad to let you guys know that I am no longer working at NRG Radio. I chose to step down from the role of a Presenter and Digital Content Manager at the beginning of the year because I decided to pursue other endeavors on this crazy rollercoaster called ‘life” she wrote in part.

Elodie explained that she could not discuss her situation at NRG earlier due to some formalities.

“I will never forget the team I worked with, my insanely talented cohost, and the lessons the NRG fam taught me. I’m very proud to say that I hosted the first show on radio that speaks directly to the Content Creating community. What a year 2018 was!”

The influencer, however, did not reveal her next venture, only promising to spring some surprises.

View this post on Instagram

Though it’s been an awesome and unforgettable experience, I’m sad to let you guys know that I am no longer working at NRG Radio. I chose to step down from the role of a Presenter and Digital Content Manager at the beginning of the year because I decided to pursue other endeavors on this crazy rollercoaster called ‘life’ I will never forget the team I worked with, my insanely talented cohost, and the lessons the NRG fam taught me. A lot of you guys have been sending DM’s regarding the situation, however I couldn’t discuss it earlier due to some formalities. I’m very proud to say that I hosted the first show on radio that speaks directly to the Content Creating community. What a year 2018 was! NRG Radio is a station filled with the coolest kids in Africa. Their attention to detail and speed make them a force to be reckoned with! They truly are reinventing radio. As for me, the madness continues Stay tuned for a few surprises

A post shared by Élodie Zone (@elodiezone) on Feb 6, 2019 at 7:40am PST

Ⓒ 2014 Nairobi Wire