For 20 years, Bien Aime Baraza was the soul-stirring voice behind Sauti Sol, the iconic Kenyan band that left an indelible mark across East Africa and beyond. Now two years into a flourishing solo career—highlighted by a sold-out 10-state U.S. tour for his album Alusa—Bien is finally sharing the key to his rebirth: his wife and manager, Chiki Kuruka.
Speaking on The Breakfast Club, Bien opened up about the intimate and intricate dynamic of having his wife double as his manager—something he says not only grounded him professionally but also salvaged their marriage.
“It’s beautiful. It’s been by far the most rewarding experience of my life. I didn’t think I’d have it this easy in my solo career if I didn’t have someone who centers me like her,” Bien said.
The decision to bring Chiki on as his manager came after nearly a decade together as partners. The couple had been in a romantic relationship for nine years before merging their personal and professional lives two years ago, just as Bien ventured into solo artistry.
“When I went solo, I was just like, ‘Yo, I think you need to manage me.’ And she was like, ‘Okay, we’re doing it for the home,’ and it’s been beautiful,” he shared.
Their working relationship, while relatively new, has blended seamlessly with their personal bond—though Bien admits the lines between work and home are often blurred.
“We don’t [separate work and personal life]. We’d be in bed at midnight and she’d be like, ‘Babe, did you check the mix for the song that was sent?’” he revealed, laughing.
While he acknowledges the lack of boundaries could pose a challenge in the future, for now, Bien says they’re thriving: “It’s beautiful right now. We’re operating on great energy.”
The singer went further, sharing that Chiki stepping into the role of his manager didn’t just benefit his career—it may have saved their marriage.
“We’d had really dark times before she started managing me. And I think when she took on that role, it genuinely saved our marriage,” he said.
On the subject of finances, Bien explained that they maintain a joint approach to money, with full transparency.
“In my household, the money comes to the pot. It belongs to the family. She has access to all of mine, and I have access to all of hers. We work to build a future for us and our children.”
The conversation also touched on marriage and cultural norms, including polygamy. When asked if he’d ever consider taking a second wife, Bien was quick to shut the idea down.
“No, I don’t. Not now. No. I don’t. No.”
From the stage to the studio to their home life, Bien and Chiki’s evolving partnership is proof that love and business can coexist—not just to build a career, but to rebuild a life together.
