Hey music junkie,

I know you live for these stories. So lemme tell you about the longest weekend of 2025. You ready?

It started as early as Thursday (as always). At Santuri, we hosted Chapter 7 of Hadithi Hangout. This time, we read about Kenya's biggest bands and clubs of the 1980s. While listening to their banging hits.

After learning how piracy led to the end of this golden era, we delved into how mainstream streaming is destroying the current industry. A continuation of our recent Jadili Session where we named and shamed the infamous culprits. And highlighted alternative platforms for artists to earn fairly from their music.

On Friday, The Mall was full of cool kids thanks to mau from nowhere’s show. I skipped Zahabu Sundowner to visit Cafe AMKA in Nairobi city centre and make a promo video for our Sunday gig. Then caught TCHNO’s live set by Taamuli and went home early.

Saturday was a 2 in 1 day. It started with the World IP Day event by Weza Entertainment and Art Law Kenya. Dubbed “Composing Play Coding Hits”, it brought Kenyan musicians and game developers together to see how to collaborate and bridge these two industries. The takeaway? It's very possible.

After that enlightening event, we rushed upstairs to prepare for the Je Suis Live Experience. Upcoming Kenyan musicians The Ap3x and B3yond warmed up the stage for Freed Mushaga and the band. Who serenaded us with soulful tunes from his upcoming EP Je Suis. And for the final two songs, he made us dance with him in a huge circle, rumba style. Afterwards DJ Raha played smooth Afrofusion songs to take us home.

Sunday was a repeat of Je Suis, but even bigger. I was not only the MC and DJ of the day, but also a co-organizer of Amkia Africa to the world. In between deejaying, running up and down, and chasing after a child, it's a wonder how I could breathe. And technical issues were in plenty, from DJ decks failing severally to the films’ sound not playing.

But there were highlights too. Like watching models rock unique African fashion, and dancing during African Vibration’s electric performance. And that muratina, weh! Murata wakwa for real.

By the end of the night, I was so tired all I wanted was my bed. Which was my best friend for the next 24 hours. If you ask me, I'm still recovering.

My intention is to take it easy with events this new moon. What about you? Where can you take it easy in your life?

OPPORTUNITIES OF THE MONTH

Upskill and be seen

• Become an Artist in residence in Dakar Senegal - apply by 30th April

• Learn how to become wealthy and earn passive income (affiliate) - 1st May

• Amplify your climate activism with the African Climate Creatives Fellowship - 5th May

• Become Creative DNA’s research consultant for the fashion sector - 5th May

• Apply to perform/deejay at ACCES 2025 in South Africa - 31st May

• Get your best work highlighted globally by the Afro Pepites Show - 31st May

EVENTS OF THE WEEK

Zahabu Sundowner at The Mall rooftop

Over the past 2 months, Zahabu has become the place to discover different kinds of music from different DJs. This Friday, SEMA’s TTT (Trainer the Trainer) course is coming to an end. And you're welcome to their graduation party at The Mall rooftop!

Expect an abundance of experimental live performances and DJ sets from these former Santuri students. And meet the cool new music tutors in town 😎

Geng Geng with Mbithi and Wendy Kay at The Mist

After their wild party 2 weeks ago, Geng Geng is back! This time with a special live lineup featuring Kamba boy himself Mbithi and R&B songstress Wendy Kay.

Bringing the fun vibes on the decks are top Nairobi DJs Basthma, Gatthoni and Karugu. And of course Geng Geng residents Karrl and SnSe. Come ready to dance, shake a leg, and have a fun-tastic time this Saturday 🙌🏾

P.S. Kenyan rapper Mbithi made a special song for Geng Geng that won't be released on streaming platforms. Because you're part of my beloved community, here's a free download of this exclusive track (shhh don't tell). Only a few copies available, get yours now before Geng Geng goes live🔥

Until next time
Stay high on music
Furaha