Hey music junkie,

Pressure by Zaituni has been on my mind of late. “I'm so sad sijui ilifika aje hapa”. But I know it's just a phase, and my inner child is trying to say something.

But you know what's been making me happy? Meeting cool people in Nairobi. On Thursday night, I met Wemi who's a Nigerian-American DJ, producer and professional model. We picked seats on the upper floor of Chronos Lounge which was airy and bright. And had hot convos over the tastiest dawa, Michael Jackson singing in the background.

She told me her event Heat House at Masshouse was a success. And clarified she was not bringing something new to Kenya, but rather connecting New York and Nairobi through African electronic dance music - Afrotech, amapiano and gqom. And in case you missed it, she'll come back to do another edition probably in November.

At 8:30pm, I settled downstairs in the loungy space to listen to Kiria perform covers and originals with his guitar. Like my favourite song Part-Time Lover. Hey by Just a Band also got me.

Half an hour later, the man of the night Didge joined him on the stage. And his estranged younger brother Sidney of 125 Music also hopped in as a background vocalist. Talk about music bringing family back together.

They performed classic songs like Kipusa which was inspired by Pole Musa by Daudi Kabaka (royalties apparently going to his son). While grooving to this Swahili soul, I remember thinking - they don't make RnB like this anymore. It's even Inspired my next DJ Raha mix 😉

Ooh, and what a space! It has an artist cozy ambience like The Living Rooms with rustic furniture, carpets on the floor, and clocks hanging on every wall. It's called Chronos for a reason.

I also met Sonya, the super bubbly owner who spoke fast with a thick French accent. She invited us to their Funk Soul parties on Friday night where people get down on the dancefloor under the disco ball. Who's down? 🕺🏾

And on Saturday afternoon, I met another sister at the Sarit Centre rooftop. But first, admired this grand royal sculpture by Njogu Kuria made of recycled tyres and metal parts. Its name, was Avatar.

When I finally met Wendi at the cinema, we unanimously decided to watch Avatar 3. That was literally the best decision ever. I almost cried in several scenes - sometimes out of joy, sometimes out of sadness.

I'm no Hollywood fan, but this was probably the best movie I've ever watched! The storyline, the emotion, the fantasy. And it wasn’t just me, the whole cinema clapped and cheered as the credits rolled.

If you want an epic movie experience - get your 3D classes, watch Avatar 3, and thank me later 😎

To cool down after all that action, we had dinner at Barrells & Stools who serve Indian cuisine - and music. I loved how the chef took time to explain the strange dishes, took our orders, then came back to ask us how the food was. Also, they have Salsa Night every Friday 8-11pm in case you love to dance 💃🏾

And if you love to stay at home, then listen to this…

PODCAST OF THE MONTH

My Producer Stories

In December, Kenyan music producer Ondieki sent me an episode of his brand new podcast. And let me tell you Maina, I was so blown away I almost had no words…

Episode 1 titled You Can Do It Too tackles the doubts we face as musicians, music producers, or as beginners at anything. You'll love the curated storytelling, original music, and the most creative sound design ever. And the best part - it’s a collaborative project which means you contribute your voice samples, submit your songs, or help produce the podcast 😏

EVENTS OF THE WEEK

Nairobi HiFi Sessions at Chronos Lounge

Speaking of Chronos Lounge, this Wednesday is a Nairobi HiFi Takeover. That’s the cool collective in town that plays strictly vinyl music in all genres you can possibly imagine. Be it funk, hiphop, or taarab!

The residents Jonah and Jahm sometimes also feature guest selectors Bingi and Sam tha Digga. If you love a high-quality music listening experience, check them out this Wednesday from 9pm when the pin drops 🎶

Industry Talks at Goethe Institut

For the music professionals, Industry Talks is back this Friday evening. The theme for this panel discussion moderated by Anyiko Owoko is event production.

Come learn how to book and manage artists, negotiate with stakeholders and create unforgettable experiences for fans. And of course network with other event organizers in the Industry. I'll definitely be there taking down notes ✍🏾

The People Shall special screening at Unseen Nairobi

Last week, remember I told you about a donation ticket to support the director’s medical fundraiser. Unfortunately, Nick Wambugu passed away soon after, but has left a huge legacy including this powerful documentary.

In celebration of Nick, there will be a a special screening of The People Shall this Saturday 5pm. Followed by a tribute session at the Unseen balcony where his friends will share their fondest memories of him. And all ticket proceeds will go to his mourning family 🙏🏾

I hope to meet you soon for deep conversations, unforgettable movies, and funky times on the dancefloor. We have to shake the sadness away one way or another. While learning from it too, you know 😌

Until next time
Stay high on music
Furaha