Last week, I told you of the puzzle of Mirfat and Choices, did you figure it out? Very good music aficionados, the song was Kenchic by The villagers.
Well if you missed that article, read about it here. Meanwhile, the pictures below. They are courtesy of Eric Saganda’s Fotogeric.
And last but not least, Miss Cece Sagini was also in attendence, remember her? I wrote about here being the next big thing here.
The limelight is not for the faint-hearted; the abhorrence is real and not just a creation of the media. A week ago, the painstaking Kibali introduced you to the 22 year old writer of the acceptance speech delivered by President-elect Uhuru Kenyatta and later told you how she was featured on international media.
Julie Wang’ombe just burst into the limelight and already displeasure has started flying in. Moments ago, I stumbled upon a lengthy letter full of vitriol to Julie from a guy calling himself Dikembe Disembe. He seems to take issue with why she was given the task of writing the speech. Here’s his note;
First, I’m still at pains to understand all the fuss about this 22 year-old writing a ‘speech’ to Uhuru Kenyatta. Is it because she’s 22 year old or ‘coz’ she’s the daughter to the CEO of Nation Media Group? But I digress.
Examining that speech, a student of contemporary US politics will tell you it was a full blast copy-paste of quite a number of President Obama’s speeches! Well, this is not the first time Uhuru is accused of using other people’s ideas without proper acknowledgements. At the party launch of TNA, the whole speech was another copy-paste!
You see, celeriac kids like Wang’ombe owe their place in society not to any known struggle with knowledge. From Hillcrest to Duke University, she’s been surrounded with the kind of opulence which makes you quote Kim Kardashian more often than, say, Tom Mboya or Wangari Maathai. Originality in writing is not gained from watching plasma Tv with a zillion DSTV channels. You do not become a wrestler by just watching Undertaker!
You know your speech is below par when the media is forced to replay it wholesomely during prime time news bulletin because they could not pick any ‘soundbites’. You know your speech is hollow in content when even the most loyal jubilee sycophant cannot remember a line or phrase two days after presentation. You know your speech is empty when you spend a whole paragraph acknowledging police officers and another long paragraph paying homage to the the media for doing their job! OH MY! Where did the talent go?
I must admit I did not watch Uhuru deliver the speech. I first found it revolting that 90% of that audience was composed of two tribes! When the MC of the day begun reading names; the kamaus and njugunas and Mainas and Njoroges were more than the combined tally of pokots living in Nairobi! It was an audience of ‘strongholds’. After Ruto’s cunning laugh and that ‘FP’ sideshow, I waited briefly to see some kids being paraded for the world. . .Kids we do not yet know their names, their schools or their friends. At least I know Shasha and Malia and Chelsea Clinton!
In Julie’s speech (not Uhuru’s), there exists a zillion redundancies which my former Chief Editor, Nyamweya Bw’omari would have pushed to the dustbin icon on this desktop long before he begins to look at context, value, style, signification. diction, syntax and semantic rules. This speech is only excusable because it was written by a 22 year old!
By all fairness, I’m not a UK admirer. I belong in that group of Kenyans who naturally do not like the president-elect; and, Mzalendo Kibunjia can do NOTHING about it. That doesn’t mean I do not respect him or will never agree with him as our president. It is a civil duty to honour the presidency but an extremely personal affair to ‘like’ the president.
Speeches like this one only serve to fuel speculation in the foreign press that Africa is indeed a dark continent intellectually.
A web search of Uhuru Kenyatta’s victory speech does not exist! In its place is Julie Wang’ombe’s speech; breaking all the canons in the practice of communication. Because we have mediocre journalists and a runaway press, I want to offer this free advice to ‘team Uhuru’: Let the president-elect own his future speeches regardless of who writes them! As a practitioner, which Julie Wang’ombe is not; your work is to contribute ideas, not to own them.
All American presidents have had speech-writers; you do not see the media give them more credit than the president who finally reads the speech. Again, where did true journalists go?
As I conclude, I’d rather Uhuru hires Cabu Gah or Bogonko Bosire or Denis Itumbi to spin for Jubilee than pick a shallow 22 year old with no political knowledge of Kenya or the world beyond the newspaper cuttings and downloads of other people’s speeches!
Let’s face it; unless you were born in Nairobi, everyone has had their “fala mjini” moments/culture shock when you first came to the city. Already, we’ve seen how blogger/journalist Dennis Itumbi reacted to the “marvel” of the city.
Today, however, we tell you what stuff dumbfounded the number one Gospel deejay, DVJ Mo of the System Unit. Having been brought up by his grandmother, DJ Mo had never experienced the city life but his final break came when his parents informed him that he was going to study in the Nairobi.
So what are the things that fascinated or rather astonished this top deejay? Take a look;
#1 The hawkers, the many street kids, the conductors shouting their voices hoarse to attract passengers was outlandish to DJ Mo.
#2 Traffic lights: He says traffic lights shocked him most as he stared at them in awe as they changed revealing that the closest he had come to seeing this “magic” was with the Christmas Tree.
#3 The KICC building: He was so amazed at the structural design that his mother took him there following week.
#4 Women in miniskirts: Back in the village, women did not put on trousers leave alone miniskirts, so a sight of women in miniskirts was also a shocker to the deejay.
#5 Uhuru Park: He wondered how a “lake” could exist in the middle of the city. And just to add to the fun, he had to take a boat ride…and he seems he grew fond of it and maybe, just maybe that’s why he’s seen riding a similar boat alongside Jimmy Gait in the “Appointment” video.
There you have it! DVJ Mo uncovered…
[Nairobian]
Ladies and Gentlemen, I was at the Jameson Party. It was stellar. Then we decided to leave to head out to Brew Bistro. My pals and i wanted to end the night on a high note. Then drama unfolded.
Actually, it begun long before. While still in the venue, Shappaman got embroiled in a tiff. He was talking to Madtraxx and looked belligerent. When Kone Sekou who happens to be his childhood friend went to talk to him to calm him down, his response was ‘Kone, we’re boys from way back but f*ck you Ghafla b**ches. And if you post this I’ll slap you”. Or something close to that.
Kone was furious but he kept his cool and walked away. Mind you, Kone is somewhere around 6 feet tall, built like a tank and more than capable to defend himself especially against a lesser opponent. He was being a bigger man and all that.
Then drama unfolded in the parking lot. Eddie Tash who works for Capital FM’s marketing team was accused of stealing a phone. All hell broke loose. The other lot of yobs wanted to teach these celebs a “lesson”.
Ian Mugoya was trying to maintain the peace but things got thick fast. he ended up having to get physical. and boy did he. Shappaman was drunk as they all were but he was the most aggressive hurling insults to everyone. and most were baying for his blood. At some point his boys had to come get him. And he still nearly ended up fighting with his own boys. K’Cous was smart about how he handled himself. He kept well away from that mess.
Eddie Tash was clearly offended with the allegation that he’d stolen a phone. He ended up crying. Bawling like a baby but i can understand how someone’s honour would make them react like that. That is someone who can’t believe the allegations.
<Eddie Tash>
Then the most dramatic thing happened. While all this was going on, the road had been blocked and when punches started being thrown, some girls took fists to the face. I might have been too high to realize what was happening but I do believe Nick Mutuma’s girlfriend was one of those lasses. Nick flew into a rage. One of the people who took a punch to the face went back to his car and retrieved his or maybe his father’s gun. That chap came back and cocked it asking his girlfriend who was trying to restrain him to allow him to shoot. I’m too young to die. I resorted to “Miguu niponye”, I fled.
Everyone scattered actually. Eddie Tash, Nick Mutuma and Ian Mugoya were bundled into a car that then sped off. The Camp Mulla lot jumped into a car that only went 100m away and parked. The confusion led to an accident. Yet more drama.
This isn’t the 1st time Shappaman has been in a fight. Read about the other incident here.
Ladies and Gentlemen, I was at the Jameson Party. It was stellar. Then we decided to leave to head out to Brew Bistro. My pals and i wanted to end the night on a high note. Then drama unfolded.
Actually, it begun long before. While still in the venue, Shappaman got embroiled in a tiff. He was talking to Madtraxx and looked belligerent. When Kone Sekou who happens to be his childhood friend went to talk to him to calm him down, his response was ‘Kone, we’re boys from way back but f*ck you Ghafla b**ches. And if you post this I’ll slap you”. Or something close to that.
Kone was furious but he kept his cool and walked away. Mind you, Kone is somewhere around 6 feet tall, built like a tank and more than capable to defend himself especially against a lesser opponent. He was being a bigger man and all that.
Then drama unfolded in the parking lot. Eddie Tash who works for Capital FM’s marketing team was accused of stealing a phone. All hell broke loose. The other lot of yobs wanted to teach these celebs a “lesson”.
Ian Mugoya was trying to maintain the peace but things got thick fast. he ended up having to get physical. and boy did he. Shappaman was drunk as they all were but he was the most aggressive hurling insults to everyone. and most were baying for his blood. At some point his boys had to come get him. And he still nearly ended up fighting with his own boys. K’Cous was smart about how he handled himself. He kept well away from that mess.
Eddie Tash was clearly offended with the allegation that he’d stolen a phone. He ended up crying. Bawling like a baby but i can understand how someone’s honour would make them react like that. That is someone who can’t believe the allegations.
<Eddie Tash>
Then the most dramatic thing happened. While all this was going on, the road had been blocked and when punches started being thrown, some girls took fists to the face. I might have been too high to realize what was happening but I do believe Nick Mutuma’s girlfriend was one of those lasses. Nick flew into a rage. One of the people who took a punch to the face went back to his car and retrieved his or maybe his father’s gun. That chap came back and cocked it asking his girlfriend who was trying to restrain him to allow him to shoot. I’m too young to die. I resorted to “Miguu niponye”, I fled.
Everyone scattered actually. Eddie Tash, Nick Mutuma and Ian Mugoya were bundled into a car that then sped off. The Camp Mulla lot jumped into a car that only went 100m away and parked. The confusion led to an accident. Yet more drama.
This isn’t the 1st time Shappaman has been in a fight. Read about the other incident here.
Some of you may not know Dorothy Ghettuba but you probably know Spielworks Media. No? Lies that bind anyone?
Lies that bind recently produced Africa’s best supporting actress, Maureen Koech. Says alot about the person behind this huge production doesn’t it? Well Dorothy has a secret, a well guarded one. No she’s not a crossdresser, focus! I first met her at Zinduka interactive, a monthly initiative by Citizen’s Waihiga Mwaura aimed at media students. Then, all she did was touch on her journey. When I met her again, the genie was let out of the lamp, this gorgeous lady can sing like an angel! I kid you not! Why do I vouch for her? Last year, I happened to be part of a vocal team that backed her when she sang no woman no cry at Michael Joseph, Centre and trust me her hair raising voice left the audience mouths agape.
Well she’s back again, this time letting the world behold the marvel that is her dulcet tones! All this, for charity. Every single dime. Date, 28th March, time 7 pm, place, the newly refurbished Michael Joseph Centre. Charges are only a thousand bob, but I promise you, you shan’t be disapppointed. This gig shall feature a photography exhibition by children of Vision Africa called ‘Through my eyes.’ All proceeds go to Vision Africa
When I googled Miss Ghettuba, this is what I managed to find. ‘Dorothy is the Director of Development at Spielworks Media. She attended Andrews University in Michigan where she studied Communications and Political Science.
She is keen to foster collaborations/partnerships between the African and Canadian entertainment industries. That includes creating a platform for exchange of ideas and providing opportunities for performing artists, writers, editors, directors and creative artists to experience working in both Africa (especially Kenya) and Canada.
Dorothy was selected as one of the 2008 Canada’s Emerging 20 by Canada’s ReelWorld Film Festival.
With her international experience in film making, acting, writing and production, Dorothy has the necessary skills and exposure to make Spielworks mMedia a success story. She’s in charge of day-to-day management of the Company and directing productions.”
Read about another show she’s involved in with Angela Angwenyi.
Rabbit had promised his fans a treat. and he hasn’t failed. He’s just dropped the first of two videos which i can’t get enough of. The track is called “Ligi Soo” and i love how Rabbit is at his best experimenting with different instrumentals.
Don’t get it twisted, the track is straight hiphop but the instrumentals have a distinct Euro dance feel to them. The track could be mixxed with a Dance or electro track and still sound good. But that’s where it ends. Rabbit delivers like a monster with his lyrics… Wait, does that mean monsters deliver? I have no idea why i just said “…delivers like a monster…”
Whatever. The track is as sick as they come! About to get wheeled into I.C.U but no long thing! You have to give this track a listen. I however didn’t get why the video girls are cradling babies. But that leso vibe going on is just too sick. it reminds me of someone… Hmmmm…
Check out the video below:
{youtube}g4bsOtn0DJk{/youtube}
Last week I was proud, very proud to report that our very own Artistes were on that eagle soar, collaborating with amazing international musicians. The song I was ranting and raving about was Oh Africa.
Well today I’m proud to announce that the video to Oh Africa by Alisha Popat, Moipei Quartet, Tetu, Zolani Mahola and Peter Hollen drops today! This shall be an exclusive, invites only event, and I am priviledged to be attending , how stoked am I! I shall give you the low down tomorrow, and share the video with y’all as soon as I get my hands on it. Incase you missed the article with the link to the song, hear it here. Tonight, performances shall be by Alisha Popat and the Moipei Quartet. What an awesome day!
Jameson had a major party to celebrate st Patrick’s Day -an Irish Festival. I was all the rage about it and i wasn’t alone! Jameson had promised a sick party and they didn’t disappoint. The party was sick! So sick was this party that -i have no lame follow up but that doesn’t matter cos you get my point.
Check out some of the sites and sounds from the Jameson Party!
Just kidding. Here are the real photos:
<and below some of the beauties>
<the C.E.O of Plush Decor Irvin was in attendance>
Yet another question was raised over the way K24 are going about building their brand. Calling K24’s strategy aggressive is an understatement! To talk about hostile takeovers would be apt!
Think about it, K24 are raiding Citizen’s vaults for their highest rated employees but every other station has been spared! Well, except for Radio Africa but those reports i have received are as yet unconfirmed. Just what is K24’s top brass playing at?
These guerrilla tactics being implemented at K24 have a silver lining though… For the anchors who are lining their pockets! Think about it. I’m sure they didn’t switch simply because they were promised better working hours. If anything, to build up K24 they will have to put in grueling hours.
And the lot still left at Royal Media Services will also have to be given additional incentive not to jump ship. Whatever the case, this battle is simply beginning and one thing is sure, with CORD’s High Court electoral petition, things will only heat up. The battle is far from over given the political affiliations both stations openly declare!
read about the unveiling of the new anchors here.
Atemi needs no introduction, her name is mentioned in the same breath as music greats without hesitation.
My favorite sunday activity is listening to Capital Fm’s The Lounge, and yesterday Atemi’s Uwe wangu was pitted against Nanjira’s walking which was our biggest story last week. Check it out. It dawned on me that fans would be waiting for her sophomore album Manzili with bated breath! Uwe wangu is one of two duets that she has done with Chris Adwar after Someday, one of my all time favorite Kenyan ballads. The kind of musical magic these two create is of epic proportions. I caught up with her and we managed to talk about her first offering Usijali featuring Mudigi Savara of Sauti Sol and this is what she shared with me.
“Usijali was written by RKay and I, and is in the key of F major…” Yes, me being me, I just had to ask what key that was, makes you appreciate a singer’s vocal capability even more when you know these little details. After whetting my appetite, she gave it to me full dose no holds barred. “I am releasing my new album next week. It is called Manzili – State of Mind. It is different from Hatimaye in that it is a more evolved sound. I’m growing and learning more…my music is growing right along with me. The album features Chris Adwar and Chris Bittok alongside Delvin Mudigi in Usijali. There will be a launch concert but details about that will be available later.. “
There you have it, keep your eyes peeled for this album, I guarantee you, you shall not be disappointed. She recently signed with Taurus Musik who shall be distributing her music, as well as Gatwich Records founded by Immanuel Jal, which also signed Juliani. Listen to Usijali below and revel in the beauty of such awesomeness.
{youtube}G52UM3jBSYs{/youtube}
The Image below is what Taurus Musik tweeted a while back, I’m wondering if the new album’s cover will look anything like it. Really, I’m dying of curiosity and thus I’m off to plead and prod until more details emerge. To find out more about Taurus Musik and the other huge Kenyan artists they have signed, please read that here.
Last week we told you about how former Cabinet Minister and media guru Raphael Tuju had filed for a divorce at the High Court and even offered Ksh200,000 alimony. Well, the same week saw the GSU officer alleged to have a fling with Tuju’s wife charged in court.
The officer Sammy Oguda was charged with improper use of telecommunication equipment after the police claimed that he called Tuju on his cell and told him, “I am going to strike you”. Tuju had filed a complaint against his wife’s lover for the “annoying utterances”.
The telephone call was allegedly made on February 8 with intent to cause annoyance to Tuju. The prosecution also alleged that the words uttered by Ogunda were grossly offensive and annoying to Tuju.
However, Ogunda’s lawyer Cliff Ombeta protested the charges arguing that the police were under pressure from Tuju to ensure that Ogunda was denied bail. The police on their part applied to have Ogunda remanded in custody for three days to complete investigations but the magistrate rejected the application and released him on a cash bail of KSh100,000.
Death is cruel and habitually comes without an alert. Sadly, that’s what socialite Vera Sidika woke up to this morning. In a rather shocking and bizarre incident, Vera’s closest cousin passed away in his sleep last night.
Just known as Brian, he grew up with Vera and became so close that she always considered him a brother and not a cousin. In a short tribute to Brian, Vera revealed how she had great plan for him after graduating from campus this week, but unfortunately that was never to be.
Here’s Vera’s tribute;
So much unbearable pain.
Dear Brian,
Having lived and grown up together I have never looked at you as a cousin.You were my brother, and just last week we spoke & had a plan about what next after graduating from Uni. Being an only child, mum looked at you as her only hope.You were her soldier since dad left when still a small boy.How you slept and failed to wake up is the most painful way death came calling.
And today you will join your Dad.
May your soul Rest In Peace.
Ghafla! sends sincere condolences to Vera’s family on their loss and pray for Brian’s soul to rest in eternal peace.
You’ve read about how MediaMax’s K24 made a foray into Citizen TV and other media station for some of the top anchors and production crew and maybe been wondering why you haven’t been seeing them on your screens. Well, you are just about to see them.
The president-elect Uhuru Kenyatta-owned K24 has announced officially that they will be re-launching the station again after months of working on its branding. The anchors and technicians have undergone vigorous orientation and are ready to take over the station.
Just last week, K24 once again raided Citizen TV and CCTV Africa and made away with two top anchors ahead of its re-launch today. Well, the two will be unveiled today alongside other TV personalities poached from other stations (mostly Royal Media Services).
However, most of the existing anchors will be leaving the station to pave way for the new talents, according to sources. Be sure to tune in today to behold a totally fresh K24.
Last Thursday i stepped out. I went for my usual soiree at Changes and i made quite the blunder. I left the club at 4am. It’s no wonder then that i couldn’t make it to the office the following day. Truly sad. But with that said, i had a good one! Nothing to complain about, everything to write home about. Check out the Photos below:
<Me with Dean, the man responsible for making Platinum Thursday kick as hard as a retarded mule on steroids!>
< My brother. E be na obo le wu o! Guy no de take eye woman pant!>
Our television stations are awash with Mexican soaps and other annoying imports, so we exhale with relief when a new show is about to be launched.
According to Abu sense, an amazing actor and poet, Maisha is a riveting tale about vices galore juxtaposed with love and loyalty. Think greed, corruption, ambition, betrayal. Steamy! It carries you on a journey past the dark and light side of life, to the consequences that occur when the two sides collide. According to their Facebook page, they Echo the same sentiments, “it is about money, love, choices, jealousy, and betrayal.
An Arimus Media/Imagine Pictures Production, the premier happens to be tonight on K24 at 10.00 pm. The show is produced by Lynn Mungai who doubles up as an actress, and is written by Nick Ndeda, Andrew Odera and Lassie Atrash. Lassie who was in Tahidi High also doubles up as an actor, together with Cess Maingi among others.
I gleaned this from Facebook “Imagine Pictures is an Independent and commercial Production house, which is consistently combining new and existing technology to embrace changes in the industry and create an edge for our customers. Imagine Pictures has rapidly grown into a formidable force, both in creativity and effectiveness over the short period that we have been in the industry. Imagine Pictures is responsive, dynamic and innovative and is committed to remain the region’s leader in both Film and Television production.Imagine Pictures is managed and headed by both knowledgeable and experienced staff that is a major asset and the driving force.”
Nick Otieno also assumes the role of executive producer so this should be awesome. Check out the trailer below and give your views.
{youtube}ghswACPtk1M{/youtube}
Julie Gichuru recently got Size 8 to be wearing her designs, read about that here.
I came across a blog post by a disgruntled South African Multichoice client. He was protesting the increase in prices for the different DSTV packages. For those of you not in the know, i had written about Multichoice’s intention to increase the prices to their various bouquets. Read about that here.
And if this is the best picture of what to expect, then brave yourselves. Here are the increments that South Africans have been subjected to:
The source was a site called justcurious and the title of the article as it appears was DSTV: So Much More Money!
Today is the Monday after 2 sick parties: Platinum Thursday and Jameson Party. I am suffering the aftermath. If you missed either of these parties, die. Curl yourself up into a ball and just stop breathing. That’s how sad your life is without these two experiences! but before you export yourself to the world beyond, read the ten things you should know this morning so you and your ancestors will have something to discuss!
#1. Remember Huddah saying she wanted MPs to earn astronomical salaries cos she’d still get to eat? Here’s Why… Huddah Monroe Hangs Out With Kenya’s Most Powerful Politicians (PHOTOS)
#2. Jimmy Gathu & TerryAnne Chebet Move To K24. Read more about that here. And find out just who else K24 have poached.
#3. Photo of The Day: Jaguar Hangs Out With The President-Elect. Check out the Photos of the person i believe to be Kenya’s equivalent of Jay Z in terms of influence kicking it with Mr. President himself!
#4. Holy Dave And Joey Muthengi’s Dad Survives Death By A Whisker. Read about that here.
#5. Bootylicious Vera Reveals What You Need To Do To Get With Her. Read about what it takes.
#6. Kapella Calls Miss Karun “Average”. Read more about what the rapper had to say.
#7. Ian Mbugua & Lizz Njagah In Kenya’s 1st Sex Film. Read about that. Find out whether it’s soft p0rn or that hardcore stuff…
#8. Remembering E-Sir: The E-Sir – Notorious B.I.G Connection
#9. Singer Michelle Explains Why She Has Been MIA. Read more here.
#10. Vera And Her Ravishing ‘Roxie’ Finally Makes It To Radio. Read what that’s all about here.
I was born in March and I’m very proud of that fact because alot of musicians were born in this month. Sadly, this was also the month that we lost one of Kenya’s brightest stars.
Esir was a trailblazer, he brought lyrical potency to a genre laden with lacklustre talent and skill. His mastery of Swahili was evident in the many hits that were unleashed posthumously. Tomorrow happens to be the anniversary of his death, untimely death might I add. Thus I felt like I should write something small concerning that.
Everytime I remember South C’s finest, I feel like death robbed music of an artiste that would have captured the world’s attention had he been alive today. That should not be misconstrued to mean that there aren’t other talented people around, of-course there are. A dime a dozen. Esir however, I feel had drive, copious amounts of it. He had that river-like flow, that captivating imagery, and the vocal delivery needed to make hits even from songs that had a sombre mood like hamnitishi. Did he have a premonition about his death? Everytime I hear that song I wrestle with that thought. I know I’m not alone.
I only knew him through his music, but in my own way there was always a sense of familiarity. Vicariously maybe, because I also grew up in South C. And maybe because Brenda, who sang Mos mos lived in the next estate. I’ve never met either, knew her brother though…you get the whole six degrees of separation drift. I hope.
So today, the radio has been playing his music, which made me very melancholic. Invariably, I felt ‘led’ to pay homage to him in my own way. From Maisha and Bumba train featuring Nameless, to leo ni leo and Jo, it stilll feels like yesterday that those were chart topping hits. Time does fly, vanishes like morning dew in the kalahari sun. Again, this piece is really me externalizing, thus it’s a tribute at best, subjective at worst.
From Wikipedia, I got a complete list of songs from his debut album nimefika just to paint a backfdrop for this piece. I hope I did a stellar job.
Today Jeff wrote about the Esir Notorious Big Connection, read that here. RIP Issa Mmari, I honour your memory
Yes, when I saw the press release to this event I was intrigued. My mind began to wander, really wander. Stop, not that far, I actually remembered Halle Berry’s Cat Woman.
It begins by saying “A woman shares a thousand things with the cat. One of them is the ability to lie down stretched on the sofa, purring softly. But that is just about it – because you never know what is going on in the cat’s (woman’s) mind.
How can you know about the woman – her world, her wildest fantasies, her relationship with her handbag, her God, and her number one enemy (or is it friend?) the man? You can do two things; ask the cat or ask the woman.” Fascinating stuff.
AwakeningKenya (Awakening.or.ke) sponsored by Safaricom Kenya brings together six performers, who have been performing on poetry, tales and music. They are Sitawa Wafula, Wanjiku Mwaura, Carol Njenga, Emylee, Jannet Mumo, and Namatsi Lukoye.
Backed by Lele Ngoma and pitch 5, they will be at the refurbished Michael Joseph Centre, at Safaricom House talking to men while they compare notes with other tens of women set to attend the show. The event will be emceed by the Slam Champion Wanjiku Mwaurah.”
The brains behind the Awakening Concept, Oduor Jagero, says that the event is gonna be an avenue through which people shall explore various areas of life even as they impact others. Springing from a monthly event (Poetry Spot) that used to attract up to 800 peoole per month, Awakening Kenya is reinventing itself and giving a wider platform where everyone can speak on matters that will positively change citizens of the country.
The event goes down on the Saturday of the 23rd of March at Safaricom House, Michael Joseph Centre from 4PM. Tickets are 500 shs only.
It’s not everyday that you get nominated for an award show for a DJ’s award show that involves Dj Khaleed, David Guetta, Dj Deadmus or Tiesto. Yes, thats the calibre of event that our deejays have been nominated for.
We let you know in this past article that five of our deejays had been nominated for African Global Deejays Awards. This prestigious event will be hosted by Barbz of Big Brother Africa fame, Denrele of Channel O, Lerato, Ugandan rapper Navio, DJ Jam Jam from the United Kingdom and Adams Ibrahim of Nigeria’s Soundcity.
While the list is really long, I shared with you the categories that our awesome deejays are nominated for so you can login and cast your vote. See them below.
Best African DJ
– DJ Aly and Fila (Egypt)
– DJ Fresh (South Africa)
– DJ Xclusive (Nigeria)
– DJ Crème de la Crème (Kenya)
– DJ Black (Ghana)
– DJ Oskido (South Africa)
Best Radio DJ
DJ Joe Mfalme (Kenya)
DJ Gareth Cliff (South Africa)
– DJ Black (Ghana)
DJ Xclusive (Nigeria)
Best Eastern African DJ
– DJ CRÈME DE LA CRÈME (KY)
– DJ ALUDAH (UG)
– DJ JOE MFALME (KY)
– DJ KUMI (KY)
– DJ DONNACCIA (KY)
– DJ JAHAWI (KY)
For the tweeps, follow @agdaawards, and use of the hashtag #AgdaAwards; Instagram (agdaawards). Subscribing to their channel on youtube (agdaawards) and keek (agdaawards) will get lucky fans invite (all-expense paid) to the event.
Voting commences on the 15th of March, so make sure you vote for the DJ of your choice through these 3 easy steps:
Note: Only one vote is allowed per category
The Kenya Film industry is coming of age. After witnessing the success of Nairobi Half Life, the first sex film is set to hit the industry. Renowned thespian and Tusker Project Fame (TPF) judge Ian Mbugua alongside actress Lizz Njagah will feature in the film.
Speaking to Heads Up, the Tinsel actress was upbeat that this will be one of the most talked about film in Kenya. She was however quick to point out that the film will not be explicit. ““It is not explicit but rather an overview of Kenyan’s weird sex habits. It features the crème de la crème of actors in the Kenyan industry and it will be out in a month or so,” asserted Lizz.
This is not the first time that Lizz and Ian have featured in a controversial fi lm together. They also acted in Me, My wife and My Guru alongside Lizz’s husband, Alex Konstantaras only that this time, Konstantaras will direct the movie.
Earlier this week, I told you about an incident where Ogopa Deejays decried that two of its former illustrious producers were using the production house’s logo for their own benefit. However, one of the producers has refuted the claims.
Musician and former producer Philip Makanda AKA Philo has denied that he and the stable’s former manager, Banda are using Ogopa’s logo for business. “I don’t understand what this is all about because we are still in talking terms with Ogopa Deejays”, said Philo adding, “In fact, there is no conflict of interest between our company, The Main Switch and Ogopa.”
Philo also rebuffed allegations that his company was in no way trying to interfere with Ogopa’s business saying that there was no bad blood since his company is into events management while Ogopa deals with artistes.
Yesterday I wrote about Jalang’o’s advice to fame mongers and although the title was a bit much, it was intended to grab your attention because of the weight which his words carried. Read that here.
Well today Mugambi Nthiga shared his two cents on auditions. Mugambi Nthinga by the way, is the the guy that pulled off that very controversial gay scene in Nairobi Half Life. If you haven’t watched it until today, you need to get your head examined.
This is what he had to say. ” I just received a text. I got turned down after yet another audition. It happens to all of us all. In fact, we’ll experience significantly more rejections than bookings. It’s the way of the industry. It’s not a testament to your skill. So keep moving. You’re an actor (or singer or designer or writer or dreamer) regardless. My good friend Nick puts it better:
“Sometimes you feel like a character was written for you. You pick up the sides, a measly 2 pages of the script, and the first time you scan it over, you get chills. You work your *ss off, memorizing the sides, getting your wardrobe just right for the day, figuring out fun directions to take the character, and you go in to audition.
And you freaking rock. Your preparation & comfort with the character & script means you’re so at ease that you’re ready to shoot this thing while others are still trying to figure out who the hell talks like this. The energy in the room is positively glowing. You know you’re killing it. They know you’re killing it. They ask you to improvise a bit and it feels like the character they created has now come to life before their eyes, and they can do nothing but follow. They’ve been waiting for you all day, they just didn’t know it until you walked in…..” I hope you’re still following.
“And then, high as a kite, you leave the tiny little audition room. Back to the waiting room, full of darting eyes, whispered lines, and palpable insecurity. You wanna celebrate. Treat yourself. Reward all your hard work, and then you remind yourself, “I haven’t booked it yet…
Because yes, it goes both ways. You NEVER know in this business. So you allow an hour or so of blow-by-blow recounting of this epic audition and then gather up all that positive energy and harness it for the next project. Always moving forward, looking back only briefly, to learn, and then moving forward again. Will they call? Who knows. You never know in this business. But I know that I put everything I possibly could have into that audition and that is a job well done.”
Wise words right there.
For some time now singer Michelle The Brand (Michelle Kwambo) has been missing in action from the music scene. After redoing Jr Gong’s (Damian Marley) smash hit ‘Beautiful’ late last year, not much has been heard from her and now her fans have started getting concerned with her ‘silence’.
This afternoon Michelle sought to address all those who have been inquiring where she is. Here’s her message;
’You’ve been silent.’
‘When can we expect something from you?’
‘Its not good for you to be so quiet, you’ll be irrelevant in the industry’
These are questions I have heard for a while and lately they seem to be coming at me more and more.You might be trying to figure out why I’m not as active as you would like.Yes I have been silent. Yes I am remaining silent. Coz I’m at that place where I need to chill, sit at Jesus feet.
I could jump into studio next Monday and have an album on Friday, but that’s not what He wants of me. I’m not about to tell you what you want to hear. Still, I’m not wasting myself (note to self- die to self 🙂 ) Am I still a Kingdom rapper?…yes by all means. When can you expect something from me? I really and truly can’t tell right now. Am I afraid of being irrelevant coz of being too quiet? Yes and No. Yes coz who knows what my flow will be like…lol and No…because the God who called me will always be relevant. He’s got me covered.
He who began a good a good thing in me (you/us) is faithful to complete it. The journey isn’t over.
It’s only just began!!
Follow her on Twitter on her handle @michellemartins for more updates.
Earlier this week, I excitedly gushed over the fact that P-unit and Alicios had released a song. The details were sketchy then, so I simply wrote a piece that I’d flesh out later. Thank goodness for press releases.
Thus I get to give you the full low down on the song Mobimbo. Featuring Alicios the stunning singer from Congo, it’s the newest offering from this amazingly talented trio. This is the song I was alluding to in this earlier article showcasing the lads’ sense of style.
Genge is the staple but who said you can’t rev up your musical menu once in a while? That is what this trio did and Alicios was their chef of choice! Lingala is clearly still the lingua Franca as even Delvin uses it alot in songs including usijali with Atemi. Mobimbo I’m told means encompassing, everywhere, whole… someone teach me more words! The song is meant to capture the African spirit expressed vibrantly through song and dance.
P-UNIT who have been riding high lately with the song You guy, the song that ushered Vera Sidika into the public eye. Versatility is in, rigidity is out!!. That means that they shalll be toying with a myriad of genres, in a bid to permeate the global musical scene. Mobimbo is just the latest issue in a string of hits that may ‘confound’ at first, but will nonetheless reel you in. Other artists they have recently collaborated with include K’millian from Zambia and Klear Kut from Uganda. They are out to push the boundaries because only change is constant. Mobimbo thus honours that old adage, and anyone who accepts this truth is a sage.
Today Vera Sidika has been a busy woman.
First thing in the morning, she was with Caroline Mutoko in KISS 100’s Westlands studio, talking about her bottom, which she has aptly named Roxxie. Then, one hour later, she had made her way to Homeboyz Radio’s Mombasa road studio, where she talked with Amina about her newfound fame.
One of the pertinent questions Amina asked was, “so what are you looking for in a man? What does a guy have to do to get that booty?”(yes, Amina actually said that on air)
To which Vera responded:
“I’m looking for a guy who’s focused and has a vision. Someone with a 5 year plan because that’s what I’m all about as well. I want to get to where I want to be and the guy has to be determined so that we can grow up together in life.”
So there you have it guys. If you want to frolick with Vera and her booty on the beach, you have to pay the cost to be the boss.
To see what you have to do to get Vera’s services in a professional capacity, click here.
Hate him or love him, CoolaGang’s Kapella is one artist who does not mince his words about stuff; he tells it as it is. After dissing Bamzigi sometime last year, he went ahead to expose the illuminati then shortly afterwards.
Fast forward to 2013 and Kapella ni yule yule. It now emerges that the hiphop rapper has bad blood with Camp Mulla. This emerged recently during an interview with Kevin Oguoko of the Pulse magazine where Kapella openly disregarded Miss Karun.
Here’s an excerpt of the interview;
Pulse: Some people felt that your CoolaGang Miss Karun’s Room track was raunchy, especially keeping in mind that she was still a teenage girl…
Kapella: Everybody was on Miss Karun’s case at the time. Everybody in town wanted to get a piece of her. The song was meant to glorify her perceived beauty. It was just one verse by a featured guest rapper that was off. The rapper who did the lines was not even a member of the CoolaGang.
Pulse: Were you hitting on her or was it just a case of getting smitten to a level of singing about her?
Kapella: I wouldn’t say much about that, but looking back though, honestly, Miss Karun is not all that. I mean, take a look around town…
What do you think? Genuine beef or case of a jilted lover?
It’s no lie P-UNIT put the D in dapper. They are suave and they reek of success, if airplay is anything to by. Well before I speak about their new song, how about I let y’all see some of their pictures and judge for yourselves.
We recently told you that they have launched a Tee shirt line. From the stylish pics below, it is evident that these guys are guaranteed succcess in their latest fashion foray. And oh, for a behind the scenes look at how the ‘You Guy’ video was pieced together, check this link out.
Seems socialites and politicians roll in close circles.
First of all, this morning, we released photos that showed socialite Huddah Monroe hanging out with the most powerful politicians in Kenya. Then today we had Vera Sidika go on radio to answer to allegations that her flashy lifestyle was being funded by a politician, then now we have Pendo.
Pendo has recently got into a much publicised relationship with a mystery man. Their whirlwind relationship has seen the 20-year old Pendo get engaged to the man in a relatively short period of time. He then went ahead to buy her a Chrysler Crossfire as an engagement present.
Our pretentious print counterparts at Pulse then sought to find out who exactly Pendo is dating. Pendo told them,
“I am not a gold-digger. I am not dating any tycoon, neither have I run away with his money. The truth is that I am dating a son of a top politician and the two of us plan to get married.”
Case closed.
It seems K24 is not done raiding its competition for top anchors. After poaching Belinda Obura and Tom Mboya from Citizen TV, the station fell short of getting on board Lulu Hassan and I thought that was the end of the story but I was wrong because it emerged that the station was plotting another raid.
Ladies and gentlemen, it has not even taken long before K24 has pounced again this time leaving Citizen TV and 
CCTV wounded. Citizen TV’s Jimmy Gathu and CCTV’s TerryAnne Chebet are now moving to the President-elect Uhuru Kenyatta-owned media house. It’s now pretty much obvious that K24 is aiming to become one of the strongest TV stations as asserted by Uncle Chim Tuna in his article, Monday.
Until his exit Jimmy Gathu was one of the host on Citizen TV’s Power Breakfast Show alongside Mutegi Njau and occasionally Johnson Mwakazi. As for TerryAnne, she is a former Citizen TV Associate Editor & Business News Anchor at Citizen and immediate former Business News Anchor at CCTV News International. The two’s arrival at K24 will strengthen the team considering the station is planning another relaunch Monday.
Mombasa-based artist Lady Hekma found herself in a fix last week.
According to Pulse, she was arrested last weekend at Bamburi Police Station. The charge placed on her at the Shanzu Courts was assault.
Lucky for Lady Hekma, she was released come Monday morning, because her friends from her record label paid for her bail. As the week went on, she appealed the charges and they have now been dropped.
Coast artists are known for their behind the scenes drama. Remember how there was drama galore at the Coast Music Awards?
It is with a sad and heavy heart that we announce the sudden and untimely death of Calif Records’ artist Ala-C’s grandmother.
In a short and emotive message released just a while ago, Ala-C revealed that he has lost his grandmother. He was also grateful to God for the long period that he has known her and prayed that her soul rests in peace. “Just lost my grandma… God i thank you for all those years av known her.. R.I.P Cucu we love u…” tweeted the Walking Class singer.
The message prompted condolence messages which began pouring in shortly after from fans and friends. Here are some of the commiseration messages:
@MaaImaniMa deepest condolences dearie…
@Rafaelajollie: sorry ala-c tek hrt May God b wth u thrue dz hard tym..R.I.P grandma..
@omaden: My condolences bro,be strong in heart!!
@olivia_karim: its only God who gives and takes away life,take heart
On behalf of Ghafla! I wish send our condolences Ala-C and his family.
Elections are over and life is back to normal after a thrilling campaign season. However, the campaign period was a life changer to a section of artists who endorsed different presidential aspirants. For the artists it’s a case of laughter all the way to be bank with over KSh.15billion set aside for campaigns for both CORD and Jubilee teams. This is after TNA was repoerted to spend over KSh250 million for endorsements alone.
As already witnessed, a significant amount of the figure was spent on organizing events where artists took to stage to appeal to the young voters. According to the Nairobian, TNA splashed lots of cash during the Dunda Na Uhuru concerts where top artists in the industry performed. In fact a sources intimates that each of the top artiste was being paid about KSh300,000 for perfoming at TNA rallies. And the shows went on for six days every week which translates to KSh1.8 million per week!!! So, by the end of the campaign period each artiste on TNA payroll may have made a cool KSh7.2 million. And this partly explains why Jaguar emerged even wealthier (read it HERE).
It’s reported that Ringtone and Jaguar were earning up to KSh500,000 per show for the entire campaign period, which puts their earnings at an estimated KSh3 million per work. When contacted, Ringtone declined to confirm or deny the estimations only saying that he had been with TNA from day one and was nudged to drop his Dagoretti parliamentary seat (read the story HERE) to buttress the TNA campaigns.
The core artistes were also paid allowances running into a region of KSh60,000 daily to cater for small expenses like airtime and buying meals for them and their crews. In total, TNA had six artistes on a three-month contract: Ally B, DnG, Abbas, G-Kon, Jaguar and Ringtone alongside the likes of Madtraxx, Marya and Chiwawa. Contacted about the amount the amount of money they received, G-Kon said “I don’t know about others, but as for me, I was being paid KSh200,000 daily for the road shows. I am happy I supported the winning side.
[Nairobian]
Do you believe in angels? No this is not the atheists’ litmus test calm down.
This week we have been dishing out on the Muthengi Family. Earlier today I let you in on the open secret that Joey is no longer with Capital Fm. That was after we reported that his brother has a charity, has opened a new studio and is now creating job opportunities for talented producers out there. Well in the course of my communication with HD, he let me in on very astounding news.
During elections day, many people braved the sun and sweltering heat to vote. Many others took time out of their busy schedules to travel from whence they came to cast their ballot. Among them was Holy Dave and Joey Muthengi’s father. He had travelled the weekend prior to election day to exercise his democratic right.Sadly, he was involved in a grizly accident. His car was was hit head on by a truck and is a complete write off.
He however miraculously escaped, with no injuries save for a fractured arm. According to Holy Dave, his dad was enroute to their Machakos abode when his car was struck. It must have been angels watching over him like A-star and Kiki sang many years back. Good news is that he is in recovery, and I hope the two famous siblings have signed wellness messages on their dad’s cast.
It’s not every day, that media personality Caroline Mutoko announces that she’s looking for you either on air or on her Facebook page. I’m sure by now y’all know, that a page with that many followers is worth a huge chunk of money. Check out Maina Kageni’s story here
Well Vera, was the person she was looking for this week, and invariably Vera she found. Vera even confirmed that she would be on the show by saying “Hope y’all having a fab evening, Kiss 100 tomorrow at 8:30am and Homeboyz radio at 10-11am should be interesting..
Goodnight.”
True to form, she has graced both shows this morning. She was on air with Caroline Mutoko, before making her way to HomeBoyz Radio to chill with Amina Abdi. Vera has been on many people’s lips, or rather Roxie, her lady parts have been the subject of much attention much to the chagrin of ‘haters’. Well Vera came off as focused on positivity, and endearing almost to a fault. She talked about her charity endeavours which I was the first to report about here. Vera is a university student, an interior designer, a plus size and swimsuit model. She is also a business lady dabbling in executive formal wear for men and human hair for the queens. She had words of advice for fellow curvaceous ladies out there, Jeff Omondi wrote about that.
It is rumoured that she is set to auditon for Big Brother, should she win, we shall definitiely fill you in asap. Y’all know we waxed lyrical about this girl, and personally I thinks we we should appreciate rather than hate. Speaking of which, I am the only one who thinks Vera resembles Caroline Mutoko in the above picture? Make your comparisons.
As the entertainment industry, family, friends and fans prepare to commemorate the tenth anniversary of E-Sir’s death tomorrow, one of his die-hard fans paid a tribute to him in a post likening him to Notorious B.I.G.
It would be bad manners not to call these two LEGENDS the impact they had on the music scene was very massive. Their command of lyrics and musical flow is something to fall in love with. Accepting their abrupt departure from us will always be considered a big blow for the industry. Keeping their spirit alive is very vital for musical growth. Have their tattoos on our hearts. FOREVER YOUNG!!
Note that E-Sir’s album had 13 tracks and was featured in only 3 songs by Kyraz, Buccaneers and his good friend Nameless. This makes the total number of tracks 16 which unfortunately is the date of his demise and 3(number 
of tracks featured) being the month of his death.
On a lighter note,E-SIR had found good friendship and partnership in a guy i think also had some Biggy connection, i personally want to think the name Slimmy Tall was a Jua Cali coinage from Biggy Smalls. Another name to be noted was Big Pin, a long-time friend whom he closely worked together at Ogopa Deejays.
To Damaris Wangui (E-Sir’s mum, note that the name has 13 letters, same number as the tracks on the son’s album) the fans want to THANK YOU for bringing to the world a GAME CHANGER and a LEGEND to say the least. ONE LOVE, E-SIR FOREVER.
In their memory we live to wish they stayed longer, in their music we find passion and emotion and in their achievements and aspirations we curse their deaths. R.I.P Biggy, R.I.P ISAH WANGUI MMARI. 10 YEARS LATER…PIRATES MPAKA KUFA.
[Edwin ‘e-sir Hopper’ Kiptoo]
So yesterday, we broke the story that Holy Dave has opened a studio and is also hiring, did you catch that?
More on that later. Rumour mills have been awash lately with ‘whispers’ that Joey was leaving or had left Capital Fm. And because I hadn’t substantiated anything, I wasn’t gonna post hearsay. Well today she finally bared her soul, in a very candid tumbler post that draws you in to the inner sanctum of her mind. I’ll let you read that for yourselves.
My favorite saying this year, is that if you are brave enough to say goodbye, life will reward you with a new hello. Whilst she’ll continue to be a Channel O VJ, she has her sights set on more acting opportunities, as well as voice over gigs. I wish this lady well, I’m sure we’ll be hearing more from her very soon.
Back to sibling news, yes Holy Dave is employing, read that here.
Socialite life ain’t easy.
You have always got to make sure you’re hanging out with the right people at the right time, and getting it on record for all to see. But Huddah Monroe has got this high society game on lock. When she’s not taking nvde pictures of herself, or exercising on her stripper pole, she’s hanging out with the creme de la creme of Kenyan politics. Take a look for yourself as she hobnobs with the who’s who in Kenya:
HUDDAH CHILLING WITH PRIME MINISTER RAILA ODINGA
HUDDAH AND VICE-PRESIDENT WILLIAM RUTO
AND HUDDAH HANGING OUT WITH THE PRESIDENT HIMSELF
Questions abound as to whether these politicians are the source of funding for many of Nairobi’s socialites, but that’s a story for another day!
After being tight buddies with Mike Sonko, Jaguar seems to have found a new friend in President-elect Uhuru Kenyatta as evidenced recently when the three had a private meeting. Take a look at him chillin with the president-elect in this photo.
If you missed it, Jaguar is one of the entertainers that may soon be joining the government (Read the full story HERE) and now even appears wealthier after endorsing the president-elect.
Good morning earthlings, the pounding rains are upon us!!! Captain obvious has obviously struck again….. In other news, what should you know today?
1. Raphael Tuju is going through a surprisingly amicable divorce, read about it here,
2. Mirfat and Choices Baricho Road, what’s the connection, find out here.
3. Wakanai Wakanai, read about him..
4. Holy Dave spreads his wings, find out here
5. Jaguar new’s stash of cash. How? Find out here.
6. Papa Shirandula’s Njoro is now a rapper. Yes.
7. Azonto draws nigh…find out here
8. Is that Huddah Monroe? Find out here.
9. What’s this drama unfolding at Phoenix theatres
10. And finally, read about Jalango’s piece of advice to fame ‘whores’ here.
Lemmi get straight to the point, Holy Dave opened a new studio, did you see that? This comes hot in the heels of his new single last month, and his first charity event under the Holy Dave Foundation banner.
Well, there’s more to that story and it’s actually good news. We know you are looking for a foothold in the music industry, so trust Ghafla to give you the heads up. HD is looking for you if you’re an upcoming producer. Read about his new studio here.
For now however, you’re gonna be coming in as an intern but you know what, that’s how you build a skyscrapper, by laying a firm foundation. Interested? His email address is hd@davidmuthengi.com. Again, if you feel that you can make sick beats and aren’t tone deaf, then hit the send button asap!!!!
All the best guys.
Dela was wooed; wined, dined, the whole shebang!! And gave in she did.
Incase you missed her unveiling last week, I have the pictures to give you a glimpse of what you missed. They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and I have ten. Bask in this sunlight.
So last week, a lot of you were irate that DSTV were going to increase their rates!! Hee, inflation is real guys relax! Okay I’ll stop incensing you.
Samsung have announced a new deal that has left me gobsmacked. DStv decoders shall hitherto be built into Samsung televisions. Say what????
According to HumanIPO, the two companies went ahead to share more tantalizing titbits…. In the 2013 Samsung Africa where they announced this deal, they also stated that MultiChoice’s new digital television service GoTV will be sold in Samsung outlets stores.
“Working with Samsung will significantly increase our continental footprint, giving subscribers easy access to all our products through the cooperation of Samsung dealers and distributors,” said Nico Meyer, CEO of MultiChoice Africa.
This is the partnership arrangement for Samsung South Africa, with HumanIPO reporting the day before, that the company had signed a deal with operator Vodacom to collaborate on mobile and network infrastructure services for businesses, to provide a more integrated mobile solution portfolio. This however applies to South Africa. Vodacom will provide customised services to Samsung devices, while Samsung will provide Vodacom with an on-site service provision team.
We are waiting with bated breath to see if this will apply to the Kenyan market too. We shall keep our eyes peeled and inform you. Remember DSTV is giving you the chance to win 600,000 K every week until April 5th. Find out more here.
