Hey music junkie,

How are you keeping up with all these events in December? Please tell me. How do you do it?

Last weekend was pretty insane, celebrating The Mist's 3rd birthday for 3 days straight while preparing for Outlook x Umojah Sound System’s massive bass party on Saturday. So, we took it one step at a time.

On Thursday, I was honoured to be invited as the guest DJ for The Clearing. That's the Thursday show hosted by Bizi Bingi where we listen to music, read poetry and lie down on couches like we're at home. Like seriously.

But there was no time for couch sitting during my DJ set. After a couple of lovey dovey Kenyan jams, I switched up to benga music by John Ndichu and friends. And let me tell you, The Mist was on faya!

You can see it for yourself right here

On Friday, we were back at The Mall for Afrofeel acoustic event. Which was of more of a sherehe if you ask me. Shazzy and Tajezo’s electrifying live show made passersby stop and watch through the Santuri Salon’s windows because this is African music!

And next door at The Mist, the place was packed with fans old and new. Here to celebrate their favourite underground club in Nairobi. With bumping music by Nairobi's finest DJs.

But I had to save my energy for Saturday. The grand finale. While The Mist and Munyu Space at the basement were both occupied with events, Umojah Sound System took over the parking lot.

Umojah set up two stages: one for Nairobi Dub Club in the second floor parking lot, and the second one on the rooftop for drum and bass, dancehall and even gengetone. Watching Dipa Konnection live was a highlight, and so was DJ Richie from Outlook Festival who killed it with the bass.

Shout out to jaba for the energy boost!

That night reminded me of Occupy The Mall Festival. Remember the weekend event extravaganza that happened last December featuring Goethe Institut, PerFORM, Santuri, BlackRhino VR and Tamasha Records? This felt like a mini version.

But you know what, this is just the beginning. More exciting December events are coming our way. Start stretching because it's gonna be one long race!

OPPORTUNITIES OF THE MONTH

But first, let's make some money

• Learn how to take your photography career to the next level in this free masterclass - 13th December

• Join the NEWF 6-month photography fellowship happening virtually and in South Africa - 15th December

• Apply for the 2025 Writing Fellowship by the Johannesburg Institute for Advanced Study - 4th January

EVENTS OF THE WEEK

Roots and Renaissance Festival

Are you still looking for a plan for Jamhuri Day? Or would you like to get away from the city and breathe some fresh countryside air? Then join us in Tala Kangundo.

Hosted by Shiko Onyango who designs wearable African art, we'll experience a fashion show in the forest, beading workshop, hiking, live music and a bonfire at night. Basically the creatives camping trip you've always dreamed of.

Geng Geng feat mau from nowhere at The Mist

Nairobi's show with the most Kenyan vibes is back! This Saturday, Geng Geng presents alternative singer mau from nowhere alongside R&B star N’Jiru and the experimental mphilo live.

On the decks to keep us dancing to gengetone, kapuka and even dancehall are Moige, Kahii and Geng Geng residents themselves. Come catch a vibe with us on the dancefloor one last time. Before we head to Beneath The Baobabs Festival in Kilifi!

Ice Bath Karaoke at Our Wonderhouse

Have you ever experienced an ice bath? I did for the first time during Kisima Wellness Festival in Kilifi, and let me tell you it's not for the faint-hearted. But it's also one of the most rejuvenating things you can do for your body.

If you like a healthy challenge, welcome to this ice bath karaoke by my Kisima friend Nathan. The birthday boy will guide you to breathe and even sing through this ultra-sensory community experience that will leave you feeling more alive than you’ve felt in a while.

So all you have to do now is get out of your comfort zone and get out of the house. Magic awaits you outside those four walls. See you somewhere cool 😎

Until next time,
Stay high on music
Furaha