Hey music junkie,

This Leo Season has been about returning to myself and working on things I've been postponing. For example, on Sunday I got a baby snake plant for my room (the other one died). What have you done for yourself this past strong?

On Friday night, Liboi hosted her Hisia 2 concert at Goethe. Even though I was an hour late, I caught the live action, the Afrofusion music, and the gorgeous gown made by her sister Afabri Designs. My favourite part, was how the stage was in the middle of the room and we danced around it.

Here's what I mean 💃🏾

But it was not yet home time. Afterparty was TCHNO Takeover at The Mist. I caught Mescadi’s set which banged so much you thought you were in Tomorrowland, the underground stage. Who knew one could love Hard Techno? Techno truly is an acquired taste, and once you get it you can't lose it 😎

On Saturday, I was up early for the first Ubuntu Festival in Kenya. 2 hours later I arrived at Kunoni Gardens in Nkoroi just past Rongai. The outdoor day featured art exhibitions, art market, herbal products, yoga session, dance performances and live music. As the MC, I welcomed the different speakers on stage to talk about permaculture, herbs and spirituality. We even had guests from Ghana who graced the stage looking like royalty as they launched an Afrocentric spiritual book.

The highlight was when Pato Banton joined his wife Antoinette Rootsdawtah on stage. And they performed some powerful reggae songs, including the famous Go Pato. Reminding us no matter where you come from, I am because we are ✊🏾

Sunday was spent at Sparrows Creek Ecocamp, a stone throw’s away from Kunoni. We slept on a mattress underneath the trees and sun which was super refreshing. And sipped muratina by the bonfire under the stars, just like we did on Saturday night.

On Moonday, I was back to the busy city for my first Drunken Lecture at The Beer District. The theme: the (stealing) art of Kenyan Music. I enjoyed the competitive group game before MegaMuia’s lecture on sampling culture from past to present. The biggest takeaway: arbantone isn't sampling, it's riddim culture. Do you agree?

Speaking of Kenyan music, there's plenty to experience this strong. Let's get into it

PODCAST OF THE MONTH

Hadithi Hangout Chapter 10 presents Mwomboko

We always record our Hadithi Hangouts because they're always so rich, fun and insightful. In this one, you'll hear lots of laughter as we discovered the pioneers of Mwomboko music and read their very Kikuyu names. You'll also experience the accordion and karing'aring'a which are part and parcel of this unique Kenyan music genre.

But the most interesting part? Our deep conversations on how Africans were innovative during colonization, and why we need to keep our culture alive through music 🎶

EVENTS OF THE WEEK

Hadithi Hangout presents “Akorino” at Santuri Salon

Let me be honest with you - one of my favourite parts of being a music journalist is hosting Hadithi Hangout. It's such a wonderful community where we read together, learn together and even sing together.

This Thursday evening, we'll discuss Akorino music which, like Mwomboko has a long rich history since the 1920s. From crafting Gikuyu hymns with trance-like rhythms to gospel hits with kapuka beats, we'll explore it all 🙌🏾

Quiz Night Homegrown Edition at Saraya Nairobi Kitchen Lab

How well do you know Kenyan music? Come test your knowledge at this special Quiz Night hosted by femme Kenyan DJs Emm with the Vibes and Bbyy on the island. From zilizopendwa to throwbacks to gengetone, your favourite music era is definitely covered.

And even if you don't know much, you gon learn this Friday. And make new friends who also love Kenyan music 🙂

Organic Market at Soul Vegetarian Restaurant

Sundays are for wellness, sindio? This Sunday, Ammi the Veggieman (who performed at Ubuntu Fest) is hosting the second Organic Market at Soul Veg Westlands. A family friendly event bringing healthy products, organic food and conscious consumers together.

Personally, I'm looking forward to the women's health seminar by naturopath Dr Eudorah from Ghana. And maybe get a signed copy of her new fantastical book 😉

Whether it's cleaning your room, getting a house plant or buying pesticide-free vegetables, do something nice for yourself. And then tell me all about it. As Kenyan music plays in the background 🙂

Until next time
Stay high on music
Furaha