Hey music junkie,

Aint life funny? When you're finally saying Happy New Year, everyone else is saying April Fools. The real question is, does the year begin in the middle of winter (January) or at the beginning of spring (March)?

As you ponder on that, on Thursday we discussed the history of Congolese rumba in Kenya. While reading Shades of Benga during Hadithi Hangout, we discovered the big bad bands of Kenya's golden era of the 1970s and listened to some of their hits. I'm talking about Hodi Boys, Orchestre Les Mangelepa and Orchestre Super Kazembe (of the famous Kassongo).

And to crown this Santuri session, we had an exclusive TaaRnB listening session. The feedback on our 2 songs was so overwhelming I'm eager to go back to the studio and record some more 💃🏾

On Friday, I was up and early for Miti Mitaani site visits. Miti Mitaani, in case you're wondering, is a local organization that pays young people to plant and take care of trees in their neighbourhoods. Four of us (including Munyaka our photographer) visited the various sites in Mwiki, Kasarani and Githurai, and interviewed some of the youth on the impact of this program. Positive stories only.

And in the evening, we went to The Mist for TCHNO Takeover. I enjoyed the panel discussion on techno music culture and Kimina’s live production set. But my favourite set of the night was by Davis B. At 4am, we felt like we were in a festival with his melodic yet hard-hitting techno tracks. Definitely watch out for him.

On Saturday, we were back at The Mall. But this time for Nairobi Dub Club in the dark parking lot. From sipping jaba to dancing to reggae to singing pon the mic, it was a wholesome night. And as always, we left the premises past 6AM.

Sunday was all about relaxation,. I picked up a fun hobby from my childhood days, which is drawing women in different dresses. Call it amateur fashion design.

And I also curated this monthly playlist for you!

PLAYLIST OF THE WEEK

Music of the month - March 2025

March was definitely Koko Koseso’s month (pictured) as she launched her debut album which has been on repeat ever since! Beyond her Afrofusion magic, we’ve also received new music by Kenyan kings Matata, Bensoul, Nviiri, Bien and Benzema.

Khaligraph also released Khali Cartel 5 featuring rappers from Kenya, Uganda and even Tanzania (Jakk Quill is my favourite, who's yours?) And for the culture, enjoy mugithi music, Kamba benga, and a jam for Wakalee 🎶

EVENTS OF THE WEEK

Munyu Turns 1 anniversary weekend

If you've attended an art exhibition or sound installation at The Mall basement, you've definitely been to Munyu Space. And this underground art space is marking one year of hosting all kinds of cool events starting this Thursday till Sunday.

To celebrate, we'll enjoy community activities led by resident artists, including art making workshops, online radio sessions, storytelling performance and film screenings. And we'll end on Sunday with an Ethiopian coffee ceremony (Buna) and thanksgiving ritual led by my sister Tizzita.

The Pregame at Visit Ngara

Beyond Westy, Ngara is the new cool place to be. Fun fact : Did you know Ngara was actually hotspot in the 1980s as Kenyan and Congolese bands played there all the time?

This Friday, shop, sip and vibe to music by Kenyan vibe curators Geng Geng, fashion designer and DJ Daudi O, Kitera and Afriikhun. Before the free afterparty at The Mist. (Wait, is that you Afrikan?) 🤔

Pop Up Market at Nairobi National Museum

If you're in the mood to shop till you drop, or make your house look great again, this is for you. Take advantage of this Saturday pop up market at Nairobi Museum and get the best deals on your favourite books and art pieces.

One thing I love about pop up markets is meeting all kinds of interesting vendors. Don't be surprised to make a new friend while you browse their products. Or get inspired to create your next art project.

Oh, and one more thing. If you want to make more mullah this year, join us for the Pathway to Provision online course starting Monday. 4 weekly classes + bonus resources to help you turn your passion into profit and become financially free. I’m eager to see what we learn together and how we grow together. Your future self will be proud 💪🏾

Sign up here with my affiliate link.

Until next time,
Stay high on music
Furaha