Hey music junkie,

How was your weekend? I'm still reeling from the wild weekend that was Folk Fusion. Were you there?

Unlike last time when it was so muddy cars got stuck on the road (or so I’m told), this time it was sunny and dry. Perfect weather to walk barefoot on the grass, wear mini skirts and drink cool jaba juice.

Despite sound issues and major delays between sets, we had mad fun. Events are always better with friends. We danced to DJ Mura and Ally Fresh's fiery Kenyan sets in between the performances. And got high on Apesi Mnyamamka-a-a-a-li’s Dholuo jams. You simply cannot resist benga music 🕺🏾

We also enjoyed more benga by Kenyan legends Winyo and Eric Wainana, Swahili R&B by Njerae, and Kikuyu music by Ayrosh, Wanjine and Ayrosh.

But my favourite set of the night was by Sarabi band. After their mini-breakup, they are back with the same spiritual energy they had 10 years ago, turning the stage into a sanctuary of unity. Theirs is not entertainment, it is healing of the nation through music. As Ambasa Mandela said, love is the only religion 🤞🏾

Though the show was meant to end at 11pm, we left Paradise Gardens at 2am. Only to get stuck on the road - not because of mud but because of flat tyres. Would you believe me if I said we stayed by the roadside in the middle of Kiambu county for 6 whole hours?

Still, Folk Fusion was so.much.fun. And despite the inconvieniences, I learnt how to change a car tyre. So win-win?

Here are photos and videos from Folk Fusion, Legends Edition.

This weekend is going to be even more interesting with more events. Let's check them out together.

FEATURE OF THE WEEK

The History of Benga Music

After Folk Fusion, it became even clearer to me that Benga is THE Kenyan sound we've been looking for. But what is benga really? And where did it come from?

I did a little digging on the internet to answer these important questions for you. Here's a little fun thread about its history plus a playlist to introduce you to the pioneers of this potent Kenyan sound.

EVENTS OF THE WEEK

Hadithi Hangout at Santuri Salon

When is the last time you read a book? With other people? Come read with us this Thursday evening at Santuri.

For chaper 1 of our new book club Hadithi Hangout, we'll dive into The Trial of Dedan Kimathi. This powerful play by Ngugi wa Thiong’o and Mîcere wa Mugo will help us explore our history, our fight for freedom and our role as the new Mau Mau.

TCHNO Takeover at The Mist

This Furahiday, it's time for another TCHNO Takeover. Aka the coolest techno community gathering in Nairobi where we learn, connect and dance together.

During the panel discussion, we'll discover the differences between techno and techno house. Before experiencing a live production set and techno DJ sets by an all female lineup. If you want to explore something new, this event is for you.

Sunday Acoustic Soul Session

And on Sunday, we cool down with sultry Kenyan R&B by sultry Kenyan queens. Two of them are artists I've interviewed over the past 2 months - that is Nduta Notes and the soulful Cheruu.

You’ve probably heard of Njerae and N’Jiru, right? Let them serenade you this smooth Sunday evening at Moov Cafe Kilimani. Before DJ Selo takes it away.

May this weekend be full of laughter, fun, and benga. Beng-beng-beng all your troubles away. And when you're not strong, always lean on your community.

Until next time,
Stay high on music
Furaha

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