Hey music junkie,

You know social media is a scam, right? Not the best way to start a newsletter. But hear me out for a minute…

Over the past week I’ve been sharing tasty highlights from Kilifi county on Instagram. Visiting fancy looking hotels, promoting magical dhow sails and attending fun music rehearsals. But that’s only one side of the story.

While you saw the half of it, something else was happening behind the scenes. Panic, stress, and anxiety as we organized and executed the first Sailing Music Festival. Would people going to show up? Would we make enough money?

And what would happen if we didn't?

I definitely don't want to go to that stressful space. Thank goodness I don't have to. The 3-day festival is over now. And I’ve had a 3-day break in Kilifi and Malindi to recover from that hurricane of events.

Let me tell you, it's not easy to run an event - let alone a festival. Especially when you only have one month of marketing. And practically no sponsors.

Don't try this at home kids.

I've learnt a lot from this experience though. For example, you need a big team to execute a big event. You need partnerships with local organizations (including schools) who’ll help you mobilize attendees. And most of all, money money money money!

And while things were tough, there's always a silver lining - right? For me, I balanced the stress by walking on the beach and singing to the ocean. I savoured plenty of wali kwa maharagwe ya nazi kwa mchicha. And that night sail on The Mekatilili Dhow under the stars was truly a highlight!

PLAYLIST OF THE MONTH

Music of the month - August 2024

As you might know by now, a new month means a new playlist! With not just new music from Kenya, but also Africa and the world.

Welcome this September with some faya tunes from alternative artists such as mrnayed, King Kerby and Ochiko. And local legends Octopizzo, Femi One and Mejja. Je, utawezana?

EVENTS OF THE WEEK

Kenyan Reggae Night 5

Guess what? The coolest Kenyan Reggae party is back at The Mist this Friday. Featuring the coolest MC Mic Templar, DJ Zygy Zaga and Swahili dub queen Binti Afrika.

The first time I watched Luca Daps at KRN a few months ago, I was simply enchanted. Mandem’s music is so captivating, in a Kenyan reggae style. You definitely want to catch his special live performance this Friday, entry is free!

Gratitude Conversations

This Saturday, Munyu Space and The Mist are hosting an event like you’ve never seen. Gratitude Conversations is a spiritual and musical experience led by Le Bois Sacre. Who are Ivory Coast artists based in Kilifi!

With themes like opening ritual to procession to the altar, we'll be guided through these sacred spaces with the help of enchanting music and visual art. Featuring live performances by Kenyan musicians such as Zippie Nyumu, Soul Fud and Njeri Wa Babaa, come experience gratitude on a whole new level.

That's it for today. If you're in Nairobi, hope to see you at The Mist on one of these days. And whether you're organizing an event or simply attending one, remember to have fun always!

Until next time,
Stay high on music
Furaha

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