P-Square
Nigerian twin sensation P-Square are set to come to Kenya in February. Known by their fans for hit songs like “E No Easy” and “No Time,” P-Square are going to be in Nairobi for the AMAA (African Movie Academy Awards) nominations on 25th February. The AMAA nominations are to be held at the Inter Continental Hotel in Nairobi, after which P-Square will perform.
The P-Square concert has been slated for the following day at the Carnivore Grounds.
Mr. Thrill
Long-time Kenyan DJ Mr. Thrill (Gerald Sabai) died today morning from kidney failure. He was an integral part of Code Red alongside Mista Prime, Dj Stylez, Mista French and Dj Zoom. He worked at The Pavement (now closed) and at Capital FM before he moved to Tanzania. He was one of the trendsetters in Kenya when in came to dance, house and techno music. He had been fighting the disease for a while and his fans and peers flooded his Facebook wall and their respective Facebook and Twitter pages to pay their respects.
His twin brother, DJ Nicky, had this to say
He was everything a brother should be. I wanted him to stay, but the Lord needed him more. I lost my Brother & closest friend. RIP Gerry
DJ Adrian wrote
One of the most humble people I’ve ever known. Gone too soon
while CodeRed’s Porgie took to Twitter:
DJ Crème de la Crème has a page on his website dedicated to paying tribute to Thrill.
Leading Kenyan record label Calif Records has recently launched a studio in Greenfields Estate in Nairobi. Representatives of Calif records say that the expansion is meant to bring Calif Records closer to the talent available around that area.
Calif Records
Meanwhile, Calif have also been working hard to get their online presence going. They have simultaneously launched a desktop site (califentertainmentafrica.com) and a mobile site (califmobile.com). Both sites contain rich content related to Calif Records, including news, artist profiles, music videos, and a Kanye-West inspired ‘Good Fridays’ section, where exclusive content will be released to the public every Friday.
Following the example of Kanye West, Kenyan rappers Nonini and Jua Cali have decided to take some time out of the studio and onto the silver screen. The two artists have short films in store that will serve to hype their musical content for 2011.
While details about what Jua Cali has in mind are not forthcoming, we can tell you that Nonini’s short film will be based on a theme titled ‘Killer Mmoja.’ The hype for this short can be seen on Nonini’s latest pictures, where he shows him and his ‘Pro Habo’ stablemates covered in blood
Nonini Killer Mmoja
Hope the two short films can take creativity to the next level for 2011!
In an interview with Ghetto Radio 89.5, Bamzigi sought to clear the air about the ‘beef’ that was had between him and his former producer Madtraxx.
African Superman
– He said he has now signed up with Flame Entertainment after the fall out with Madtraxx and Red Republik
– Despite the beef, he still has mad love for Madtraxx, who has released 5 songs in a row which became hit singles. This proved critics wrong after they thought ‘Boda Boda‘ was going to be a one-hit wonder.
– The reason Bamzi joined Red Republik was that he heard and liked the beats to‘Unataka Nini’ by Madtraxx and Prezzo. He appreciates that he was allowed to join the label, since he did not have any money for studio time after he came out of rehab.
– He told his fans to look out for his next single which will be released next week called “I’m Addicted.”
Radio presenter Papa Shaq (Bernard Oduor) found himself a guest of the state for 24 hours after he was arraigned in court for allegedly beating up a business competitor to near pulp.
As if being locked up at the dreaded facility were not bad enough, the dreadlocked reggae presenter at Hot 96 – where he hosts a weekly evening show, was also been suspended from work after he failed to turn up for work.
The presenter is alleged to have physically assaulted someone in Tassia Estate on December 27 and was remanded at the Industrial Area Remand Prison but was released on bail.
Kubamba DJ Moses Mathenge is mourning the death of his father who passed away last Friday after enduring a long period of sickness. He finally succumbed to Alzheimer’s disease at home.
The funeral will be held on Friday at his home in Nyeri. We offer our deepest condolences to DJ Moz, his family and friends.
Admittedly, we here at KenyanLyrics were left lagging behind when it came to wrap-ups of the year that was. Truth be told, we already had a list of major events that we wanted to cover, but unfortunately, in December of 2010 we had one of our worst security breaches yet, hence most of our tech resources were diverted towards site security for most of Dec 2010.
Nevertheless, this delay has turned out to be quite a blessing in disguise. As we pondered whether or not to release our intended year-end article, an upcoming Kenyan artist known as “Balozi wa Mtaa” forwarded us a link to his song “2010 Rap Up.”
This is the most artistic Kenyan 2010 conclusion that we have come across, and to reward Balozi’s ingenuity, we decided to make “2010 Rap-Up” our official end of year statement! Listen to it by pressing play below:
In yesterday’s Pulse Magazine, it was reported that DJ Kaytrixx had quit the Code Red DJs company, and gone solo. He is quoted as saying,
Imagine I’m paid peanuts for my work – Sh. 17, 000 – from the amount he (DJ Stylez) gets from Str8Up monthly and it comes late. I also get Sh. 2, 000 – 3, 000 for playing in other gigs from Code Red.
At first, we at KenyanLyrics were incredibly alarmed that DJ Kaytrixx, who can honestly be called a top DJ in Kenya right now, can be paid only Sh. 17, 000 for a daily, 1-2 hour, nationwide show, in which there are less than 10 cast members who appear on air. On top of that, being paid 2, 000 – 3, 000 per show just seems like pure slavery!
However, hawk-eyed analysts from our news team were quick to notice some discrepancies in that story. First came the claim from Kaytrixx that he was not involved in the Madtraxx vs. Bamzigi Twitter beef. He claimed,
Someone in the (Code Red) stable was using my account to hit at Bamzi who quit Red Republik.
It sounded a bit fishy that Kaytrixx had left his Twitter profile to someone else at a time like that, when Code Red members were coming to the defence of their friend Madtraxx, but many people are guilty of forgetting to log out of their social profiles.
Also, today a picture containing a copy of Kaytrixx’s paycheck was leaked. The cheque shows Kaytrixx earning a monthly salary of 64, 000. Way more than the figures which were quoted in the Pulse:
Kaytrixx’s Payslip
However, it looks to us like this is a digital snaphsot of a live spreadsheet, which could have been manipulated in any way before being released.
The most damning piece of evidence that leaves a big stench around this whole story, is the fact that Kaytrixx today used his twitter profile to rubbish the Pulse story, and put to shame whoever released the salary figures!
With all these accusations and claims being passed around back and forth, the question that remains is… who’s fooling who?
Afro fusion songstress Nina Ogot has launched her new website: ninaogot.com. This adds her to the ever-growing list of Kenyan musicians who are embracing online marketing. Hers is a brochure website which showcases her latest news, performances, music and photo galleries.
The website is still in it’s initial stages, hence Nina is welcoming suggestions from her fans as to how to expand it. Report to her via her various social profiles(found on the website) how she can improve her product. We at KenyanLyrics can only say congrats to Nina, and make sure the site is updated!
Dancehall superstars Cecile and Chris Martin will be coming to Kenya on March 5th at the Carnivore Grounds, brought to you by the same people who produced the highly succesful Alaine concert at Sepetuka 3. The concert was confirmed yesterday by the two artists, who phoned in personally to the “G-Money in the Morning” show onHomeboyz Radio to tell their fans about it.
Chris Martin confirmed the performance will be on 5th March at Carni. He said that this would be a milestone in his career, performing for his Kenyan fans who have shown him mad love on his Facebook fan page, and that he wanted them to come out in numbers to watch him perform.
Cecile also said that she is definitely “super-excited to come to Kenya.” She said that she has never been here before, so her fans should come out in great numbers to watch her perform and show her love.
The show has been the subject of much speculation, with reports on this site that Cecile had declared she is NOT coming to Kenya anytime soon. Cecile had actually announced a statement that squashed any rumours of a Kenyan concert:
I am aware that there are promoters that are advertising that I will be performing in Nairobi, Kenya during December. To protect my fans from these unscrupulous people I am issuing this statement. I have not been booked for any shows in December so anyone saying otherwise is seeking to defraud my fans. I am conscious of the fact that Kenya is now Africa’s dancehall capital, so at the right time, with the right promoters, I am looking forward to touring there. I appreciate all the love I receive through the various social networks from my fans in Kenya and because of this, I had to clear the air. Any confirmed dates will be posted on my official Facebook and Twitter pages
However, in a complete turnaround of events, Cecile now came out to confirm that she is indeed coming to Kenya, and even announced it on her official Twitter page:
Chris Martin was equally as excited about the trip, even going as far as to announce it in Swahili on Twitter!
Last night on DNG’s 8 to 10 on KISS 100, an unidentified female caller phoned in to the studio to report on the evils that gospel singers get up to behind the scenes. Top on the agenda was how 2 months ago, Tony, a member of the famous Kenyan gospel group M.O.G, raped her.
M.O.G’s TonyM.O.G are no strangers to controversy. Last year a prominent entertainment magazine alleged that they were frequent patrons of Club Bettyz, a claim that was refuted by the boy band, and has not been followed up.
It’s beef season again! This time it’s Madtraxx and Bamzigi, formerly stablemates from the RedRoom/ RedRepublik Record Label, are now at each other’s throats. And this time around, the beef has gone hi-tech, with the two artists taking swipes at each other via social media phenomenon Twitter. KenyanLyrics.com has the full story below, backed up by photographic evidence!
So at first, Bamzigi appeared to give a backhanded compliment to Madtraxx, saying that Madtraxx is ‘one of’ the best producers around, but he needs to polish his rap skills
Then, apparently some text messages were exchanged between the two, probably due to the fact that Bamzigi called out Madtraxx on his rap skills. Anyway, in a swift turn of events, Bamzigi came back to Twitter with a complete change of heart, now saying that “Madtraxx was a genius… till he stole my ideas”
DJ Stylez then came to the defence of his brother Madtraxx, claiming that Bamzigiwas trying to start beef just to ‘sell records’
Bamzi then egged Stylez and co. to ‘start something’
Now DJ Stylez came out and dared Bamzigi to release a diss track!
Bamzi retaliated by congratulating RedRepublik for coming out and fighting, daringDJ Stylez to put his money where his mouth is and rap
Bamzigi then claimed that Maddy is just a DJ who thinks he can rap
Madtraxx finally responded, calling Bamzi a washed up rapper, akin to Ndarlin P
Madtraxx added insult to injury by calling Bamzigi a ‘one hit wonder who needs to “Bounce”‘
This was an insult Bamzi had to respond to. He called the comparisons betweenMadtraxx and Jay Z “funny” and again dared Madtraxx to “start something”
Apparently, in this next tweet, there appears to be an idea for ‘Summer Hare’ which Madtraxx stole from Bamzigi
DJ Stylez found it best to pull out of the whole story till some diss tracks are released
Of course he couldn’t pull out without him and DJ Kaytrixx having a final word on this. He listed the hits between Madtraxx and Bamzigi during the lifespan of both their careers
Bamzigi also decided to call it a night, and threw his own last punch before he went
Nyota Ndogo
Nyota Ndogo’s baby girl
Holy DaveGospel artist Holy Dave (David Muthengi) has partnered with Eden Ville International to launch The David Muthengi Foundation. This was held today (23rd December), through a charity visit to SOS Children’s Village in Buru Buru Phase 1 (Oleleshwa Rd, Off Mumias Road). Holy Dave said in a statement, “This is the first of the many humanitarian projects that the foundation intends to initiate in future, not only in Nairobi, but in all of Kenya and its environs.”
International Hip-Hop recording artist Bamboo and U.S.-based Brand Management firm CM Cap have reached agreement on a strategic marketing partnership guiding the career of the Kenyan superstar.
The creative and business relationship will focus on expanding Bamboo’s music career in the United States and supporting his emerging leadership profile in Africa. The two are working together under the Diaspora Music umbrella.
“Artists that come in 3-D – talent, charisma, and story – are rare. Not only does Bamboo have what it takes to be a once-in-a-generation artist, I also see leadership potential in him necessary to represent Causes, Communities and Companies. Lyrically, when you take into account all of his dimensions, I don’t think anyone can touch him. In 2010, Hip-Hop is an international phenomenon but the culture and industry – especially in the States –have yet to see a phenom with the ‘international flow.’ We don’t have to wait any longer. Bamboo is here. I’m honored to work with him in expanding his current base of support and in pursuing new creative directions and business opportunities. And I’m excited about advising him as he and I develop the Pan-African Street Movement dedicated to working with the poor, the youth and the entrepreneurs of the world. Bamboo is already a legend in Kenya and East Africa for good reason and in 2011 we’re looking to take over the world,” Cedric Muhammad said.
Simon Kimani aka Bamboo grew up in Inglewood California. In his teenage years he moved to Nairobi, Kenya where he developed his unusual multi-lingual lyrical skills and emerged as an artist on the local scene. Before long he obtained superstar status with Kenya Breweries, Coca-Cola Africa and Juicy Fruit Chewing Gum all calling upon Bamboo to promote their products, through use of his music and performance. Bamboo is a 2006 CHAT Award Winner for both Hip-Hop Song of the year and Best Video of the year. He is also the 2006 Kisima Award Winner for Best Hip-Hop artist. In 2008 Bamboo made tidal waves for his starring role (and legendary freestyle) in the award-winning film Documentary ‘Hiphopcolony’ (www.Hiphopcolony.com) produced by critically acclaimed filmmaker Michael Wanguhu.
“Cedric has his fingers on the pulse of the music industry and the world. He impressed me with his vision for Hip-Hop artists and by what he sees in me not only as a talent but also as a man. We’ve been creating a formula for success for months and I’ve asked him with his years of experience with Wu-Tang Clan; as an economist working with the African Union as a political strategist to Members of the U.S. Congress to execute it with me. I cannot wait to put out a hot new album in 2011 and be the change that everyone says the game needs. It’s Time so Let’s Get It!” Bamboo stated upon announcement.
Bamboo is currently working on his new album to be released in early 2011; the re-launch of his website home; and building the Pan-African Street Movement.
Media-related inquiries, artists, and organizations interested in working with Bamboo are encouraged to contact Cedric Muhammad at cedric(at)cmcap.com
For more updates-
– Follow Bamboo on Twitter at: http://www.twitter.com/therealbamboo
– Join Bamboo’s Facebook Page at:http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Bamboo/236269744559
*****
Enjoy these brand new tracks from Bamboo:
– ‘Heya!’
http://soundcloud.com/bambooshakazulu/heya
– ‘Forever’
http://soundcloud.com/bambooshakazulu/forever
– ‘Diamonds In The Club’ –
http://soundcloud.com/bambooshakazulu/gc-bamboo-diamonds-in-the-club
To learn more information on CM Cap’s Hip-Hoppreneur ™ service visit:
Here is the list of MAMA Awards Nominees, with winners highlighted in bold:
Fally Ipupa
2Face
Liquideep“Tonight’s MTV Africa Music Awards with Airtel was a joyful and uplifting celebration of African youth culture and music. It brought together the best talent from across Africa to showcase the incredible music that Africa has to offer to the world. It is amazing to see the collaborations between the artists as it fosters a spirit of camaraderie and creative exchange that takes their music to a new level.”
daddy owenDaddy Owen has won the MAMA Award for Best Anglophone Artist. This was a day of firsts, not only for Daddy Owen himself, but for the African music industry as a whole. No one could put it better than Daddy Owen himself, who had this to say after winning the prestigious prize:
Glory be to Jesus! The first gospel artist to present an award.. to perform… to be nominated… and to win the MTV MAMA AWARDS 2010! Thank you so much guys for voting and I love you all! I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!
Seems like his gamble to sacrifice the Kenya Live tour for the sake of the MAMAshas paid off. All the best to him, as an international award like this could serve as a platform to bigger things in the future. Just ask KORA award-winner DNG.
My “ANGLOHILI2K11” commercial video premieres tonight on anglohili.com. Mark this name: Mohamed Al Barkani, Dreamolution Films!!
Anglohili 2k11
*Anglohili is a movement started by Germany-based Kenyan rapper K-Nel.
Rumours that Cecile will be coming to Kenya this December have been rejected by the said artiste. Here is her official statement:
“To protect my fans from these unscrupulous people I am issuing this statement. I have not been booked for any shows in December so anyone saying otherwise is seeking to defraud my fans. I am conscious of the fact that Kenya is now Africa’s Dancehall capital, so at the right time, with the right promoters I am looking forward to touring there. I appreciate all the love I receive through the various social networks from my fans in Kenya and because of this, I had to clear the air.”
Cecile
Freshly GroundSouth African group Freshly Ground were scheduled for three shows in Kenya Tanzania and Uganda this weekend but they cancelled citing, that the organisers had not met minimum contractual agreements as agreed upon with the band’s management.
The group was booked to perform on December 8 at the Movenpick Palm Hotel in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, December 10 at the Barn, Ngong Racecourse, Nairobi, Kenya and on December 11 at La Bonnita Theatre, Kampala, Uganda.
Zolani Mahola, the lead vocalist for the Afro-pop band stated:
“I am sad and deeply disappointed that the tour has been cancelled. We have been working hard for the performances and all of us in the band were very excited….I hope we get to perform there in the near future”
Linda Muthama
…to encourage HIV testing and counselling among Prison staff. Walter Mong’are andLinda Muthama joined the Aids Control Unit (ACU) of Kenya Prison Services on a mission to visit all prisons Staff quarters countrywide and promote awareness of HIV status. The goal is to bring testing and counseling closer to the staff in the comfort of their homes as it gives families an opportunity to get to know their HIV status together. This also eliminates anxiety when it comes to disclosure. Testing and counseling is being done by The International Medical Corps.
Nyambane and Linda have been undertaking HIV activations across the country and especially in Institutions of Higher Learning, highly populated areas and the most recent and successful campaign was together with USAID and the Ministry of Health and Sanitation during world cup where the campaign managed to get 1.2 million men tested with 4 weeks of the campaign.
Kanjii vs. Eric
Kanjii Vs Eric – Round 1 was held in 2008. After a gruelling battle between the two Afro Fusion giants for the audience’s approval, the match was called at an undecided draw.
2 years later, the two have decided to settle this score once and for all in an event dubbed “Kanjii Vs Eric – The Rematch.”
The anticipation has reached boiling point, with the traditional trading of jibes before a fight:
“I’ll make him say “sawa sawa”… TWICE!! Knock out in the first round…” – Kanjii
“Last year whopping inspired him to write the song ‘I’m Just A Man’!!” Eric Wainaina
Ladies and Gentlemen! It’s the epic battle of the decade!! Kijiji Records and Rainmaker presents Kanjii vs. Eric- The Rematch!! Featuring East Africa’s top male vocalists: Kanjii Mbugua and Eric Wainaina!!
We’re talking 2 performers, 2 bands, 1 stage… all at the same time!
Get your front row tickets now!!
The event will be held on 11th of December (Sat) 2010 at 7.30pm Kick-Off time at the Simba Saloon (Carnivore). Entry fee is Ksh700 whether advance or at the door.
Don’t Miss out on this sensational battle!!
AvrilIn another shocking turn of events, Avril has now recorded a lingala song together with Ogopa stable-mate Trapee. Avril herself has gone as far as to call the song a “radical experiment.” The song is called ‘Najivunia’ and is all about Kenyan patriotism. It has the trademark lingala guitar used to sign off on many a Congolese song. The words are very easy to grasp and it looks like Trapee, Avril and Ogopa may have another hit! You can sample the song on Avril’s Reverb and tell us what you think!
Several major Kenyan musicians under the ‘Kenya Live‘ group released new songs today at the end of the first day of the Kenya Music Week.
Allan Aaron released his new song “Gothaitha” to an enthusiastic and packed crowd.
Men of God(M.O.G) have a new hit single called “Doctor.”
M.O.G performing “Doctor”
Eko Dydda also sampled his new hit “Focus on Jesus”
Eko Dy…DDA
and Redsan showed us his brand new single “Enemies” which is about his ‘darker side.’
Redsan Rocks the Stage
The songs were performed while backed up by a full live band and zero playbacks, which is the Kenya Live group’s specialty. The songs can be downloaded on the Kenya Live website, and the lyrics will be posted on this website as soon as possible.
Lampstand FamilyOn December 19th, at the KICC, Lampstand Records and Flame Entertainment present to you the “The Lampstand Family Album Launch.”
The album launches of 4 artists fromLampstand Records will be held on the same day, on the same stage! Gospel musiciansRufftone, Krystal, Lonesome and Tapagal have been long working on their albums, with the usual hiccups causing various delays, but they have prevailed and will bring to you some of the hottest performances of the year!
Guest artists who will attend in support of Lampstand are: Daddy Owen, Dunco, Kasangas, Eunice Njeri and Emmy Kosgei.
The concert begins at 12 noon and ends at 6pm.
Charges are Ksh300 for adults and Ksh100 for children
Sponsored by: Flame Entertainment, KISS TV, Spinrej DJs, Systems Unit. Kkrew, 98.4 Capital FM, 93.3 Hope FM, Mash Auto, Standard Group and Taidys.
bobby mapesaBobby Mapesa is scheduled to make his debut in Europe.He will be performing in several German cities, starting with Frankfurt, where he will grace the Jamhuri Day celebrations. The concert will serve as a curtain-raiser for Miss Jamhuri.
H.E. Ken Osinde, an international envoy for Kenya, will be making his first visit the city. He is expected to preside over the event to meet other Kenyans in Frankfurt.
Miss Jamhuri will be chosen by popular vote. The beauty contest has caused sensation in the media circles in Frankfurt. Miss Jamhuri intends to be pageant a demonstration of African beauty devoid of Western standards.
Mapesa will perform alongside Carmolina from USA, an musician with soul, RnB, Latino and reggae titles on her resume.
The main event sponsors are Kenya Development Associates. They have expressed optimism that the beauty contest will bring textile stores and fashion marketing outfits closer to Kenyan ladies eager to join modelling market. Among the ladies who have enrolled for the contest is Kenyatta University graduate, Carolyne Katumbu who is no stranger to the Kenyan modelling scene.
“If sourced diligently, there so many beautiful Kenyan ladies around fit for modelling,”
said Ms Nancy Moraya, an AfroShop owner and promoter from Stuttgart.
Mapesa who will wrap up his tour with a concert in Munich organised renowned promoters known simply as The Homeboyz, followed by a performance in Berlin where he is scheduled to usher in the New Year.
After 3 years in the industry Rabbit releases a collage of his trail in the scene ‘KAKA SUNGURA RETURNS: THE DVD’. With fused videos and interviews , Rabbit dares and proclaims the controversial title of KING OF RAP. The 50 minute DVD shows Rabbit’s lyrical prowess and strong storytelling ability. The DVD officially jets into stores in Jan but due to public demand copies are already circulating to die-hard fans.
Rabbit
Pacho CEO Rapdamu has announced a statement that on Thursday last week, the fast-rising Pacho Entertainment (who have artists like Sanaipei and Kenrazy on their books) was broken into by thugs unknown to date. Equipment worth 0.5 million was stolen, including the recording backups of Kenrazy’s long anticipated GI-RF KENRAZY album. Artists signed to Pacho Ent. are working together with Rapdamu to get the record label back on track.Rapdamu said,
“We believe God has a purpose and will see us through. Thanks for the support, tuko Pacho Pacho!”
Rapdamu
The Safaricom Choir two days came out with the vocals to accompany one of the biggest brand campaigns in Kenyan history, “Niko na Safaricom.” The song was composed by Gabriel Omondi, and the video was shot by RSA Films.
The video contains epic scenery shot in some of the most beautiful locations in Kenya. From one of the snow-capped peaks of Mt. Kenya(yes the peak!) to the sandy dunes of the Chalbi Desert, capped off with the more familiar white beaches of the Kenyan Coast, the Safaricom Choir put together a piece that has to be seen to be believed.
The lyrics:
http://www.kenyanlyrics.com/s/safaricom-choir-lyrics/niko-na-safaricom-2010
The video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uIBHuqeis3U
The making of the video:
Legendary Kenyan DJ Peter Chuani is mourning the death of his mother who passed away this morning. The disc jockey says his mother, who has been sick for a long time, passed away today morning at nine though he wouldn’t reveal the cause of death.
He wrote on his Facebook page: “Rest In Peace… Mummy!!! :-((((((” and fans have been pouring out their heartfelt condolences to him and his family.
Da T.R.U.T.HThe multiple award-winning Emmanuel Lee Lambert – better known in rap circles as Da’ T.R.U.T.H. will be performing in KENYA next month. hosted by Twelve agency/madlove lounge and spinrej Djs (KENYA).
Da’ T.R.U.T.H. burst onto the music scene in the USA as a teen in the 80’s. A talented drummer, Lambert initially had no interest in rap. But, it wasn’t long before he discovered his unique free-styling abilities and formed a group NIV. At 19, he earned his nickname for bringing “da’ truth” to urban culture.
Amidst Grammy-nominations, Stellar Awards, film opportunities, sellout tours around the world and much success, Da’ T.R.U.T.H.’s private life came under scrutiny late last year when he was allegedly caught having an affair and later suspended from his record label, Cross Movement Records.
The rapper subsequently took a year-long “sabbatical” from his musical career.
In a note posted on his website (www.datruth.net), he apologized first to his wife Nicole, his daughters Carlise and Summer, and then to his fans. He called his behavior “inexcusable” and said he was working closely with his family and a restoration team.
Cedrick Todwell of Twelve agency says that Da’ T.R.U.T.H. has a lot of fans locally who are going to be thrilled to see him live. “He’s an incredible performer and a masterful lyricist. And the manner in which he’s dealt with his moral failure has been a great encouragement and example to many. We don’t’ hold anything against him as we all stumble in many ways daily. I encourage all KENYA’s to come out and experience first-hand what this humble, gifted man has to offer.
Since the release of his first recording, ‘Who is The Truth’ (in 2003), Da’ T.R.U.T.H. has dominated hip hop charts. His latest album ‘The Big Picture’ which features collaborations with big names like Kirk Franklin and Trip Lee, hit No.1 on an iTunes Chart the day it released.
CATCH DA’ T.R.U.T.H. LIVE IN KENYA AT NPC VALLEY ROAD AS FROM 7PM AND TICKETS ARE JUST 200 BOB.
Supporting him will be Kenyan gospel artistes Holy Dave,Eko dydda,Michelle,xpo,Mr.T,spnrej deejays,dj johni celeb,among others
The biggest radio show in Kenya, Classic 105’s Breakfast, has been given six months to review its content or face the wrath of the government. This was communicated to the duo when they were summoned by the Kenya Film and Censorship Board today.
Also under review was the station’s “Busted” segment, hosted by Ciku Muiruri, which KFCB suggested be scrapped in the same six-month period, citing violations of the broadcasting law.
Maina’s show, which banks on adult content in the morning for ratings will have to dig deeper to get new content.
He took to his facebook page and told his legion of fans about the new developments:
“OK….. I was summoned by CCK and told I’ve got 6 months to change my show format otherwise Classic 105 will be shut down…… So, exit Pale Pale and YES!!!!! and enter discussions around mmomonyoko wa udongo…….. tayarisha mawaidha….”
Let’s wait and see what happens next.
Eve D’Souza and Gaetano Kagwa have resigned from Capital FM. The two were brought in to help the station’s morning ratings in the breakfast show after the exit of Fareed Khimani and Seanice.
The two handed in their letters last week Friday but the notice took effect from yesterday. They should be off air before the end of the year unless Capital insists on them serving a mandatory three months notice.
Eric Latiff has taken over from the duo on the breakfast show.
Gaetano, a Ugandan citizen, had trouble connecting with the Kenyan audience and is said to be going back home. For Eve, there should only be words of appreciation for her after being with the station for 10 years.
Word has it several stations have already called her, with Classic 105 and One FM being at the top of the list.
It should be noted that Eve has also been quite active behind the scenes on television. Could a permanent move on-screen be in the cards?
UPDATE: Chris Foot and Etta Ligale have now been placed as the presenters of the breakfast show
bobby mapesaBobby Mapesa has accused P-Unit of stealing his style of rapping. He let his feelings be known on an interview with James Kiama earlier this week. He claimed thatFrasha had plaigiarised his way of rhyming, without caring to give credit to the originator of the style.
When approached for comment, Frasha denied any knowledge of Bobby Mapesa, and said that he was fully committed at the moment to P-Unit’s “Wagenge Hao” tour.
MTV Networks Africa and Zain announced Saturday the nominations for the 2010 MTV Africa Music Awards with Zain(MAMA) at a star-studded De Marquee, Lagos, Nigeria.
The nominations were revealed by Alex Okosi, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, MTV Networks Africa, Andre Beyers, Chief Marketing Officer, Airtel Group and Rajan Swaroop, CEO, Zain Nigeria. Kenyan artistes Daddy Owen, P Unit and Muthoni The Drummer Queen have received three nods.
Nigerians scored an impressive 13 nominations, South African artistes 6 and Fally Ipupa scoring the highest individual number of the nominations with four separate MAMA award nominations.
Daddy Owen is nominated for the first time in the Best Anglophone category while hip hop outfit P-Unit gets a mention for Best Group and Muthoni is recognised in the Brand: New category.
Commented Alex Okosi, “This year’s MAMA is even more representative of the growth of the pan-African music scene and the added emphasis on Lusophone and Francophone artists makes this the most exciting MAMA nominations race that we have seen so far. We congratulate all the artists on their nominations and wish them success on December 11th in. Lagos.” Commented Andre Beyers, Chief Marketing Officer, Airtel Africa, “The nominations today have shown the universality of music and the fact all genres strike a chord and a cross-over appeal with Africa’s youth regardless of their nationality. We are happy to be associated with a platform that recognises and celebrates the rich musical heritage that positively depicts culture from across Africa.”
The nominees for the 2010 MTV Africa Music Awards with Zain were shortlisted by the MAMA Academy – a handpicked group of music industry experts and taste makers from across the African continent.
The winners for the 2010 MTV Africa Music Awards with Zain will be revealed on Saturday 11 December 2010 at the Eko Expo Centre, Lagos, Nigeria.
The nominees for the 2010 MTV Africa Music Awards with Zain are:
Best Video
Fally Ipupa – Sexy dance (DRC)
P-Square f/t J. Martins- E No Easy (Nigeria)
The Parlotones – Life Design (South Africa)
Banky W – Strong Ting (Nigeria)
Brand New
Mo Cheddah (Nigeria)
Diamond (Tanzania)
Muthoni (Kenya)
Muthoni the Drummer Queen
JoJo (Gabon)
Artist of The Year
2 Face (Nigeria)
P-Square (Nigeria)
Jozi (South Africa)
Fally Ipupa (DRC)
Song Of The Year
D’Banj – Fall In Love (Nigeria)
Liquideep – Fairytale (South Africa)
JR – Show Dem (South Africa)
Banky W – Lagos Party (Nigeria)
Best Anglophone
Sarkodie (Ghana)
Wande Coal (Nigeria)
Daddy Owen (Kenya)
Daddy Owen
Big Nuz (South Africa)
Best Francophone
Fally Ipupa (DRC)
Awadi (Senegal)
DJ Arafat (Ivory Coast)
Ba Ponga (Gabon)
Best Lusophone
Lizha James (Mozambique)
Paul G (Angola)
Cabo Snoop (Angola)
Dama Do Bling (Mozambique)
Best Group
P-Square (Nigeria)
Radio & Weasle (Uganda)
Teargas (South Africa)
P-Unit (Kenya)
P-Unit
Best Female
Sasha (Nigeria)
Lizha James (Mozambique)
Nneka (Nigeria)
Barbara Kanam (DRC)
Best Male
2 Face (Nigeria)
Fally Ipupa (DRC)
Black Coffee (South Africa)
Wande Coal (Nigeria)
Best International
Rihanna (USA)
Drake (USA)
Eminem (USA)
Rick Ross (USA)
The MTV Africa Music Awards 2010 is sponsored by Zain in association with MasterCard.
Grammy Award winning Gospel artist CeCe Winans has been booked for a Kenyan concert set for the 19th of November at the Bomas of Kenya. The show dubbed CeCe Winans Live is organised by Flame Entertainment International in conjunction with Telkom Orange and the Standard Group. Just to give you a glimpse of her illusterous career, CeCe has received 11 Grammy Awards, 21 Grammy Award nominations, 20 Dove Awards and numerous Stellar awards.
CeCe Winans
Since 1995, she has released 8 Albums including Alone In His Presence – October 10, 1995, Everlasting Love – March 17, 1998, His Gift – September 15, 1998, Alabaster Box – October 19, 1999, CeCe Winans – June 19, 2001, Throne Room – September 9, 2003, Purified – September 13, 2005 and Thy Kingdom Come – April 1, 2008. In October last year, she reunited with her brother BeBe Winans and released the album ‘Still’.
Her most famous song, Count on Me, a duet with Whitney Houston, from the Waiting to Exhale soundtrack was certified Gold in the U.S. and reached #8 on the Billboard Hot 100, #4 on the Adult Contemporary chart and #8 on the Billboard R&B Singles charts. This will be her second time in East Africa. In the last quarter of 2006, she held a show in Uganda. Keep checking back as we keep you updated on more concert details.
Alaine LaughtonDancehall superstar Alaine Laughton will be headlining ‘Sepetuka: The Trilogy’ in Kenya.
The dancehall hitmaker is famed for hits such as Rise in Love and Without You. She was born in New Jersey, but moved to Jamaica at the age of three.
Arif ‘SupaCoop’ Cooper is also said to be joining the Jamaican singer for the event.
Norway based Kenyan hit maker Stella Mwangi a.k.a STL will be traveling back to Kenya to perform alongside Alaine.
The November 6 show will be at the Carnivore and is organized
S.T.L Stella Mwangi byHomeboyz Entertainment.
STL said, “Well, this will actually be my first big show in Nairobi. So I will perform songs from my debut album Living For Music and new unreleased songs! And yeah, of course my new singles Favourite and Smile,” adding, “I’m locked up in the studio right now, so I can’t wait to take it back home.”
Others who will be firing up the stage will include UK Silverstar Deejays duo ofRandy and Gassy. From Nairobi, DJ Burn, DJ Nelly, DJ Hassan, DJ Vinand G Money are set to entertain all night.
Calif RecordsAfter weeks of speculations and anticipations, the buzzing new African music supergroup, ONE8 is complete with the addition of Kenya’s very own talented singer, Amani. Amani becomes the only lady in the group comprising eight of Africa’s top music solo and group acts.
One8The group is a venture for Sony Music’s African division: Rockstar 4000. Amani, together with Ugandan hip-hop artist Navio, Zambia’s JK, Tanzanian heart throb Ali Kiba, Ghanaian trio 4×4, Gabonese duo Movaizhaleine and DRC’s hot sensation, Fally Ipupa, will produce a massive hit song with a top US artist, yet to be named. The hit track is being produced by an undisclosed international producer and will drop in November with a top-class video, also by an international music video director. There is certainly a lot to look out for from the ONE8 group in days to come.
On Tuesday, Safaricom launched a Kenyan music initiative dubbed “Kenya Live.” The purpose of this initiative is to support the music industry, and help aspiring artists to realise their artistic dreams by showing them that you can earn a good living out of making music.
The deal involved a diverse group of top Kenyan musicians, who will all be managed by the Homeboyz. The musicians involved are:
1. Redsan
2. Nameless
3. Wahu
4. Jua Cali
5. Ally B
6. Osogo Winyo
7. Ken wa Maria
8. Wyre
9. Eko Dydda
10. Allan Aaron
11. M.O.G
12. Mike Rua
13. Phonotex Success Band
14. S.T.L
15. DJ John
They will go around the country doing massive concerts and educational meetings with aspiring artistes. Safaricom will also provide for the artists to produce new songs and take studio pictures. The media generated will then be promoted via “Kenya Live,” a new section in the Safaricom Live portal. The performance agreement lasts for one year, while the media promotion agreement lasts for three years.
It should be noted that this is NOT an endorsement deal, meaning that the content produced need not promote Safaricom. It should also be noted that several other top artists who were approached turned down the deal.
anthonybDancehall superstar Keith Blair, also known as Anthony B is coming to Kenya on Monday and will be around for a week after that. He is booked for three shows between September 10 and 11 in Nairobi and Mombasa.
His schedule during his time in Nairobi is yet to be released. However, the basic itinerary for Anthony B’s Kenya Tour starts on FridaySeptember 10th at the Impala Club for a VIP night show.
On Saturday afternoon, he will again perform at the same venue for those who missed the VIP show. A beach party in Mombasa’s New Big Tree will be held afterwards.
Anthony B is famous for hit songs like Real Warrior, Someone Loves You and Raid the Barn.
Yes, you heard us right, R&B’s latest sensation Keri Hilson will be coming to Kenya in October. The sultry songstress will be performing alongside leading ragga artist Redsan to relaunch his Versatility album. The last launch of the album was curtain-raised by Jamaican sisters Brick and Lace.
Redsan claims that massive delays with the management and distributors that were handling the album put the project on hold. There was also a legal complaint lodged by Blackstar Entertainment over unpaid dues from the lastVersatility launch, which they handled. With no recent singles currently on the airwaves, it remains to be seen whether Redsan can pull it off the second time around.
