2Mbili gives Willy Paul some insightful advice after Macron summit snub
Willy Paul is trending online after publicly questioning why he was left out of the list of performers at the recently concluded Africa Forward Summit concert held at Kasarani.
The singer had earlier shared his disappointment through Instagram Stories, saying he believed he would have represented Kenya exceptionally well had he been given the opportunity to perform at the high-profile event.
“I would have represented Kenya in a way historiographically, unfortunately, they didn’t give me that chance. We all know I’m the best performer here. Why are they all so afraid of me?? I’m just a boy from Mathare,” Willy Paul wrote.
2Mbili weighs in
Kenyan content creator and talent manager 2Mbili later joined the discussion through a social media post, suggesting that Willy Paul may need to revise his performance booking rates.
According to 2Mbili, the singer remains one of East Africa’s strongest performers but could improve his chances of securing more international gigs by adjusting aspects of his performance package and pricing.
“I’m planning to meet Willy Paul this week, we will revise his rate card coz kama hata international concerts can’t afford him, and he is one of the best performers and musicians in East Africa!!” he stated.
2Mbili also compared the Kenyan artiste to Nigerian singer Ruger, arguing that even internationally recognised performers sometimes lower their booking fees depending on the nature of the event and market conditions.
“Kama Ruger ndo ameshuka bei na ata perform kwa vurugu, a boxing gig why not Willy Paul!! He will have to reduce the number of dancers, increase the performance time, and offer a discount to his rate card promoters, wafike bei!!” he added.
Mixed reactions online
The comments quickly sparked debate online, with fans expressing differing views about Willy Paul’s market value and booking strategy.
Some supporters agreed with 2Mbili, arguing that flexibility in pricing could help the singer secure more international appearances and high-profile bookings.
Others defended Willy Paul’s current rates and brand positioning, insisting that established artistes should not undervalue themselves simply to secure performances.
Debate on artist valuation
The discussion has once again highlighted broader conversations within Kenya’s entertainment industry regarding artiste valuation, live performance costs, and competition for major events.
Willy Paul, who rose to fame through music blending gospel and secular influences, has remained one of Kenya’s most talked-about entertainers for more than a decade.
The singer, who hails from Nairobi’s Mathare area, has built a large fan base across East Africa and frequently attracts attention online for both his music and outspoken personality.
Organisers of the Africa Forward Summit have not publicly responded to the conversation, but the debate continues to generate reactions from fans, promoters, and fellow entertainers online.
