KenyaBuzz September 2018: Get Lit! Let The Music Play by KenyaBuzz

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Thursday, August 30, 2018 | DAILY NATION

September 2018 | What’s Hot

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What’sHOT in TINGA TINGA TALES: THE MUSICAL, KENYA NATIONAL THEATRE, SEPTEMBER 1-30 We are gearing up to have a Tingatastic time with a lot of singing, dancing and storytelling.

MISS INDIA WORLDWIDE KENYA 2018, DIAMOND PLAZA II, SEPTEMBER 6–8

The grand finale of the fashion event will feature a VIP dinner and a performance by Arjun.

ROYAL CANIN LABRADOR RETRIEVER CHAMPIONSHIP SHOW 2018, EAST AFRICA KENNEL CLUB, SEPTEMBER 1 This year’s show will be judged by Karen Powell of Seatallan Kennels, U.K.

10TH ANNIVERSARY SAFARICOM FAMILY CHALLENGE 2018, SANCTUARY FARM, SEPTEMBER 8-9

EARTHDANCE NAIROBI 2018, NGONG RACECOURSE, SEPTEMBER 22

Nairobi’s number one charity dance music festival is here yet again. This time there will be 50 DJs and a flea market.

An event for two adults and up to four children to complete in 12 physical and mental challenges.

PIONEER WOMEN OF THE ARTS EXHIBITION, THE NAIROBI GALLERY, SEPTEMBER 9– DECEMBER 8 CBA AFRICA CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE 2018, NGONG RACECOURSE, SEPTEMBER 30

Nine women from east Africa, each with different paths to success in the world of art, tell their remarkable stories through this exhibition that will be opened by H.E.Amb.Amina Mohamed, Cabinet Secretary for Education.

Join in for a breathtaking mountain bike adventure. This is definitely a must-do race.

The classiest automobile event is back again with more vintage cars and motorcycles on show.

KENYABUZZ A NATION MEDIA GROUP PUBLICATION 25, PARKLANDS ROAD, NAIROBI

MANAGING EDITOR: TIM MWORIA EDITORS: JACQUELINE KENDI | FLORA M’MBONE CREATIVE DESIGNER: OSCAR ANASWA

RIFT VALLEY ODYSSEY 2018, SEPTEMBER 25–29

CONTENT CONTRIBUTORS: MAUREEN KASUKU | TEDDY MURAYA| LENA ANYUOLO| SYLVANIA AMBANI ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: CAROLINE MULU| RODRICKS OIDI

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September 2018 | Events ART

First Sato: Kuona Artists Collective, September 1st, 10pm. A recurrent interactive event that invites you to take part in an art, music, and cultural fusion with creatives across the city and region. Featuring art, painting, workshops, music and poetry performances. 0721 262326. People & Places Art Exhibition: Village Market, until September 5th, 10am. A visual celebration of the people and places that inspire the artists: Joshua Mainga who visualizes the folklore of his people and their places, Coster Ojwang a modern-day Impressionist, James Njoroge a master of collage and caricatures and Naftali Momanyi a sculpture maestro. 0731 666222. Art in the Park - Episode 3 - Miti ni Dawa: Uhuru Gardens, September 8th, 9pm. Enjoy the “NEST” installation and mural, gallery of participating artists’ work, vinyl painting, mandala creation. 020 2607045. Exhibition: Afro-Cubism Journey: Creativity Gallery, Nairobi National Museum, September 9th, 10am. Works by Robin Okeyo Mbera forming part of The Mutuma Marangu Sculpture Collection. 020 3742131. Pioneer Women of the Arts Exhibition: Nairobi Gallery, September 9th – December 8th, 2pm. Nine women from east Africa, have remarkable stories to tell. Each has taken a different path to achieve their place in the world of art. Each has

been acclaimed for their unique struggle. 020 3742131. Michael Soi - China Loves Africa: Circle Art Gallery, until September 15th, 10am. An ongoing series dealing with the political and economic relationship between Africa and China. With his characteristic sense of humour and irony, Soi questions the motivation behind this new global power in Africa and its implication for ordinary citizens. 0790 289991. Exhibition: Bare Knuckle: One Off Contemporary, until September 26th, 12pm. The latest series of intriguing works by Richard Kimathi. Male sexuality is the focus of his extensive inquiry. As ever, his interpretation of complex concepts common throughout humanity is highly original and beautifully executed. 0722 521870. An Artists’ Selection: Red Hill Art Gallery, until mid-October, 11am5pm. An exhibition of works by Samuel Githinji, Churchill Ongere, David Thuku, Onyis Martin, Gor Soudan and Justus Kyalo. GoDown Tours: GoDown Arts Centre, every Thursday, 11am-2pm. Meet and talk to visual artists, music producers, puppeteers, techies and check out the performance spaces.

COURSES, LECTURES & WORKSHOPS

Proactive Selling Skills: Hilton Hotel, September 1st, 5pm, Ksh 12,500. This course aims at developing the selling skills of all staff who regularly interact with

customers. 0733 841451. The Annual Digital Sales & Marketing Seminar: Kenya School of Monetary Studies, September 6th - 7th, 9pm, Ksh 46,200. To help support businesses, individuals and organisations to keep up with changing digital technology in business and to help find digital solutions. 0729 236920. Kingdom Driven CEOs Summit: Nairobi Safari Club, September 7th, 7pm, Ksh 2,000. Meet top business experts as they share the real life experience in their entrepreneurship journey. Jijali Free Career Entrepreneurship Training: Jijali Learning, September 7th – 9th, 9am. A free entrepreneurship training for youth aged between 18 and 30 years old. 0735 535762. Top MBA event in Nairobi: Sankara, September 10th, 10:00am, free admission. Join the Access MBA Tour and connect one-on-one with world’s best business schools. mediaassistants@adventgroup.net OpenCellular Workshop: iHub, September 11th, 9am. The iHub is excited to host the second Telecom Infra Project (TIP) OpenCellular Workshop in Africa. info@ihub.co.ke Alchemist Talks Careers w/ Shortlist: The Alchemist Bar, September 13th, 12pm free. A series of career talks with a wide variety of Kenya’s best recruiting/ career platforms and services.

We’re excited to kick off our first one with Shortlist. 0778 917708. 360 Degree Management & Leadership Skills Seminar: Villa Rosa Kempinski, September 13th, 4:30pm, Ksh 45,000. Managing the processes and workload is just one aspect of modern day managers’ job. 0775 747449. Mastering High Stakes Persuasion & Negotiation Workshop for Lawyers with Juliet Erickson: Villa Rosa Kempinski, September 14th, 5pm, Ksh 49,999. Many lawyers are involved in various forms of persuasion on a regular basis. Post Atlassian Summit Europe 2018: iHub, September 15th, 7pm. The AUG Nairobi encourages better use of Atlassian tools, share best practices, case studies and individual perspectives. info@ihub. co.ke Public Lecture on the Art of Persuasion, Negotiation & Influence with Juliet Erickson: Strathmore University, September 18th, 12pm, Ksh 3000. You have some make-or-break moments coming up at work or a project – a new business or concept pitch, investor presentation, a negotiation, a job interview, a proposal and you want to ace it and leave them wanting more. SME Fest 2018: University of Nairobi, September 19th-20th 5pm. SME Fest 2018. A 2-day Intra-African trade festival. 0777 687964. Devcraft 2018: iHub, Septemeber 27th, 5pm. A 2-day event with an

audience of software engineers, project managers, product managers, quality assurance experts, data scientists, and UI/UX experts in Nairobi, Kenya. info@ ihub.co.ke.

EXPOSITIONS

3rd Dubai & Egypt Expo: Sarit Centre, until September 2nd, 10:00am, free. Shop till you drop at the Dubai and Egypt expo. info@smart-egypt.com Nairobi Motorcycle Bazaar: Kileleshwa Primary school, September 2nd, 6pm bike vendors: Ksh 500; attendees: Ksh 200. Are you looking for a reliable market to sell your bike, or want a place to get affordable and unique motorcycle products and services? Then this is the place to be. 0710 533266. Mombasa International Show: ASK Showground Mombasa, until September 2nd, 7:00am, free. Come have a look at the best innovations and technologies in agriculture and trade within Mombasa County. Halal Trade Expo Kenya: KICC, September 7th – 9th, 8am. A 3-day event that showcases and creates awareness on halal products and services in Kenya and the region. 0728 218372.

FASHION & BEAUTY

Miss India Worldwide Kenya 2018: The Cloud Hotel Banquet Room, September 6th–8th, 6pm. The much awaited fashion event of the year- Miss India Worldwide

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Kenya 2018 is almost here. 0710 425578. Prom Night KE: Michael Joseph Centre, September 7th, 4pm. A pageant and fashion event that unites contestants from all over Kenya to compete for the Prom King & Queen title. 0780 220200. Kenya Fashion Awards: M.J. Center Safaricom, September 14th-15th, 5.30pm, Ksh 1,000. A prestigious trade mark event that incorporates fashion, music, photography and art to create a magical runway experience and recognize and award the most talented in the industry. 0720 743676. Fashion & Lifestyle 5th Edition: Michael Joseph Centre, September 30th, 2pm, advance: Ksh 600; gate: Ksh 1,200. We target the Kenya fashion industry. We promote new, upcoming and established brands. 0713 548946.

FESTIVALS & CRAFT FAIRS

Naivasha Farmers’ Market: Longonot Farm, September 1st, 4pm. An exciting new market committed to providing a beautiful setting for like-minded foodies and friends to meet and browse fresh, diverse and environmentally responsible produce. 0712119849, naivashafarmersmarket@gmail. com Asenka Community Market: Kileleshwa Primary school, September 8th, 11am-6pm. A one-stop market with a wide variety of vendors ranging from crafts, fashion,

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jewelry, food and drinks. Fun activities for both kids and adults. 0707 844008, asenkacommunity@ gmail.com Naivasha Horticultural Fair: Naivasha Sports Club, September 21st - 22nd, 6pm. Africa’s biggest horticultural fair attracts an audience from across the continent and Europe. The event showcases products and services from stakeolders in the horticultural industry (primarily flower industry), but also car manufacturers, accessories, financial institutions. 0726 629666. Karen Organic Farmers Market: Karen Village, Wednesdays, 9am-7pm. Visit and shop for local produce and local goods. 0743 719863. K1 Flea Market: K1 Klub House, every Sunday, 10:00am, free, info@ klubhouse.co.ke. Come shop, shop and shop each and every Sunday.

FILM

Children Film: Khumba: Goethe Insttitut, September 15th, 11am. Starting in September, Book Bunk and Goethe-Institut will screen films for children and young adults every third Saturday of the month in McMillan Memorial Library branches. info@nairobi.goethe.org. Film Screening: Selected German Film: Goethe Institut, September 28th, 6pm. Specially dedicated to lovers of German language and culture – from native speakers and even learners of the language. Come watch a German film and

Thursday, August 30, 2018 | DAILY NATION

September 2018 | Events

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FOOD & WINE

Food & Wine Pairing: Pango Gourmet Brasserie, September 1st, 7pm, Ksh 6,000. Fairview invites you to an award-winning fine dining and wine pairing dinner. It will be an unforgettable experience, enjoy a selection of premium Italian wines paired with a five-course dinner. 020 2881330. Mulberry Project: The Alchemist Bar, September 1st - 4th, 6pm. Get ready for hand-craft cocktails with the best fresh ingredients and tailored for each guest! 0778 917708, info@alchemist254.com

HEALTH & FITNESS

Just Gym It Anywhere: Hells Gate National Park, September 1st, 7am, Ksh 4,800. We shall all cycle through the gorges, heading towards the campsite for a boot camp session. For lunch, we shall provide a nutritious Just Gym It Lunch followed by a cool down at the Geothermal spa. 0792 920000. Kids Events 10th Anniversary Safaricom Family Challenge: Sanctuary Farm, September 8th, 9:00am. We are running the best 12 challenges of all time, so get your teams entered. 0720 131583, kenyakamili@gmail.com Safesteps Expo: The Carnivore Restaurant, September 22nd 23rd, 6pm. Are you looking for a good kindergarten or primary

school for your child? Come and sample a host of quality schools from all over Nairobi and beyond. 0704 915099, info@safesteps.co.ke Kids Fun Day 4th Edition: The Carnivore Restaurant, September 29th, 6pm, advance kids: Ksh 500, advance adults: Ksh 300, gate kids: Ksh 700, gate adults: Ksh 500. The one event that caters to young children in a fun and interactive way. There will be plenty of activities lined up to keep your little one. 020 5141300.

MUSIC

Oscillate: The Alchemist Bar, September 1st, 11pm. A night of curated electronic music. We would like to welcome you to our progressive and forward-thinking underground electronic installation series. 0727 591116. One More Time: The Alchemist Bar, September 1st, 6pm, Ksh 500. We have a special concert cooking for you in partnership with Vibe Tribe Africa, Ambasa Mandela, and members of Sarabi. info@alchemist254.com Mighty Joshua Live in Nairobi: The Alchemist Bar, September 2nd, 11pm. Calling out all music lovers to come jam with us. It will definitely be a vibe. yellowlightmachine@ gmail.com Café Ngoma Social: Michael Joseph Centre, September 2nd, 2pm, Ksh 500. Interact with brands, musicians and personalities on an intimate setting. info@cafengoma. co.ke.

DARI RESTAURANT & BOMA GRILL

EVENT SPACE AVAILABLE For Conferences, Weddings, Receptions, Graduations, birthdays and so much more. Both indoor and outdoor spaces available. For bookings call 0719893369 / 0706521573 www.darirestaurant.com

Showcase Wednesday - H_Art the Band: Alliance Française Nairobi, September 5th, 7pm-9pm. The trio have been nurtured at the Sauti Academy’s Music programme and have developed a unique performance style that they have labelled ‘Afro-Poetry’. 020 4917000. Women in Music: Goethe Institut, September 5th, 6pm, Ksh 500. A platform that seeks to promote young women in performing arts by providing a possibility for them to showcase their stage performance skills via regular live-concert shows. Featuring Analo Kanga, Valentine Zikki & Tariro Negitare. womaninmusicforum@ gmail.com. Lift Up Your Head Reggae Concert: The Carnivore Restaurant, September 8th, 6pm. Island Vibes and Reggae Powerhouse Band present a concert featuring Everton Blender from Jamaica. Wankelmut Live in Kilifi: Distant Relatives Kilifi Ecolodge & Backpackers, September 21st - 22nd, 5pm, Ksh 300. Berlin DJ and producer Wankelmut ranks among the most popular and renowned representatives of electronic music “made in Germany”. 0702 232323. Earthdance Nairobi 2018: Ngong Racecourse and Golf Park, September 22nd, 6pm. Nairobi’s number one charity dance music festival Earthdance Nairobi is here yet again. Featuring three mighty stages, each to their own representing the core movements in Kenya’s music scene. Reggae in the Sun: The GoDown

Arts Centre, September 29th, 7pm. Mystiq Redemption Band and Heretical Spence will be live in Nairobi. info@thegodownartscentre. com Kenny Lattimore Live in Nairobi: The Carnivore, September 29th, 7pm, regular Ksh 5,000; VIP: Ksh 10,000. He is not too busy for us; Nairobi get ready for the soulfulness of Kenny Lattimore.

NIGHTLIFE

Enchanted: The Alchemist Bar, September 8th, 6pm. 4 DJs, all sharing one stage and one motive host a night musically curated to be nothing short of a journey into sound. Featuring deep house, afro house and a dose of techno. 0778 917708. Alchemist & Madorasindahouse pres. David Mayer: The Alchemist Bar, September 21st, 5pm, free. German DJ/Producer David Mayer will be live for the first time in Nairobi. 0778 917708.

SPECIAL EVENTS

2018 Royal Canin Labrador Retriever Championship Show: East Africa Kennel Club, September 1st, 9:00am. This year’s show will be judged by Karen Powell of Seatallan Kennels, U.K. 0733 864137, bdavisdogs@gmail.com Free Comic Book Day: Worlds Loudest Library (The Alchemist), Between the Lines (Village Market), Elysium Bookshop (Hardy Post, Langata), September 1st, 9am. Specially printed and labelled

issues will be up for grabs while stocks last. Most of the issues are very new and recent. 0708 098188. Blended by Love: Karen Woodlands, September 1st, 7pm, Ksh 3000. A Fashionable Step Mum meet and greet with speakers, lunch, champagnem, bitings and giveaways. Special guests: Kate Actress, Lucia Musau, Jackie Keya, DJ Tectoniq. 0715 315960. Brand Stories, Music, Food & Drink: Michael Joseph Centre, September 2nd, 6pm. Interact with brands, musicians and personalities on an intimate setting. 0724169522, info@cafengoma. co.ke Annual Second Hand Book Sale: Kenya Museum Society, September 7th-8th, 4pm. It’s that time of the year again when you get a chance to revamp your home library. 0724 255299. Public Reading: Baba Dunja’s Last Love: Goethe Institut, September 20th, 6pm. A quiet novel about a woman who returns home after some time away. Chernobyl. info@nairobi.goethe.org. Nairobi Coffee Fest: Arboretum, September 23rd, 10am-6pm, advance: Ksh 600; gate: Ksh 1,000; kids: Ksh 300. Latte art throwdown, coffee workshops, aeropress competition, art workshops, live music, kids’ corner and more. 0727 415678. Book Launch: Dance of the Jakaranda by Peter Kimani: Goethe Institut, September 27th, 6pm. The novel is firmly anchored in the

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September 2018 | Events African oral storytelling tradition, drawing from the tap root of the cultures that inform the story. info@nairobi.goethe.org. SPORTS The Pedal4Health Cycling: Butterfly Pavillion, September 1st, 7:00am. This family event allows you to choose to ride your bike or walk/run as long as you join the drive to raise awareness towards better health through human movement and general societal wellness. 0722 707989, bicycling. kenya@gmail.com. 2018 Tatu City Road Race: Tatu City, Septembter 8th-9th, 8.30am, Ksh 1,200, free for kids under 14 years. A 2-day event featuring 60km and 106km races. Race categories include: Elite, ladies, juniors, vets, seniors and more. Champagne 4X4 Challenge: Champagne Park, Kajiado, September 15th - 16th, 12pm, spectator advance: Ksh 800, spectator gate adults: Ksh 1000, spectator gate kids: Ksh 500. Kenya’s most exciting off-road experience comes back for another electrifying edition. 0727 961300. The Kenya International Polo Tournament: Nairobi Polo Grounds, September 15th – 24th, 12pm, Ksh 500. Some of the best polo players from around the world battle it out against Kenya’s finest players and ponies. nairobipoloclub@yahoo.com Kimlea Charity Golf Tournament: Limuru Country Club, September

7th, 10am, Ksh 2500. Kimlea’s mission is to help girls and women lead dignified lives. Let’s help make this happen through our tournament. After 6pm dinner shall be served and prizes given. Elizabeth, 0722 735307, kimleagttc@gmail.com Masaku International 7s 2018: Machakos Golf Park, September 21st - 22nd, 12pm. The class one rugby tournament is back. Twists: Kiganjo Thika, September 23rd, 9am. Closed road TT speed bikes road racing at Kiganjo (Thika Highway). 0718 707733. Rift Valley Odyssey 2018: Limuru–Maasai Mara, September 25th-29th, 7am. The 9th RVO will be a breathtaking mountain bike adventure race across Kenya’s spectacular Great Rift Valley. This is the only mountain bike race to visit Maasai Mara. 0716 956001. Tamarind Golf Day: Vipingo Ridge, September 29th, 11am. The tournament is being held to expand our crow control programmes into the schools, (including site visits by pupils) and communities which surround us. There will also be a mini craft fair and a food & beer festival. 0733 155155. CBA Africa Concours d’Elegance 2018: Ngong Racecourse and Golf Park, September 30th, 9:00am. The 48th annual CBA Africa Concours d’Elegance organized by Alfa Romeo Owners Club Kenya is back. 0733 732032.

THEATRE & STAGE Tinga Tinga Tales - The Musical: Kenya National Theatre, September 1st, 9:00am. We are gearing up to have a Tingatastic time with you. We have a whole month, a lot of singing, dancing and storytelling to give. 0724 894106, Sheba.hirst@gmail.com. Of Cords & Discord: Braeburn Theatre, Gitanga Road on September 2nd & Le Rustique on September 9th, 3:00pm. A dark humoured thrilling drama by Martin Kigondu starring Valentine Zikki and Veronica Waceke. It explores how much baggage family relations can hold. 0721 609601. Poetry Slam Africa: 3rd Preliminary: Goethe-Institut Nairobi, September 8th, 2pm4pm, Ksh 500. Come experience creative poetic expression from some of the country’s fast-rising poets of this generation. 020 4917000. Artistic Encounters: Ngartia Bryan & Olumide Popoola: Goethe Institut, September 13th, 6pm. The fifth episode of the series will feature Nigerian poet and writer Dami Ajayi who will be accompanied by Kenyan musician and specialist in Benga music Makadem. The performance and discussion will be moderated by curator Zukiswa Wanner. info@ nairobi.goethe.org. Rurumia Itinga: Fanaka Arts Theatre, September 14th-16th, 6.30pm, Ksh 600. Don’t miss the September edition of the

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chucklesome Gikuyu comedy. 0724 040777. Night of Tales: The Alchemist, September 20th, 6pm-9pm, regular: Ksh 1,000; student: Ksh 500. This is the second event in a series of bi-monthly storytelling evenings curated by the amazing Maimouna Jallow. This event will be feature Mara Menzies and Zamaleo StoryTellers. Performance: Road to N’djema: Goethe Institut, September 29th, 3pm, Ksh 500. In this first installment of a three-part series, Kikete collaborates with a group of musicians on a performance of 10 poems. info@nairobi.goethe.org. YOGA, WELLNESS & MEDITATION Two-Day Silent retreat in Thika: Manyika House, September 21st - 23rd, 7am, Ksh 24,300. Two days of silence, reflection, nature, great healthy food, a few hours of meditation each day and plenty of time to rest, relax and just be. 0727 388809, mindfullivingkenya@gmail.com. Bikram Yoga Sessions: Bikram Yoga Nairobi, daily, 6am, 8am, 10am, 5pm, 7pm. A 90-minute series of 26 Hatha yoga postures and two breathing exercises, carried out in a room heated to 40 degrees celcius and 40 percent humidity. Yoga with Monika and Kelly: Banana House & Wellness Centre,

daily, 9am-10am & 5pm-6pm. Yoga in a peaceful and green oasis on Lamu island. Both teachers adapt to the students who come to class,

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either a beginner’s class or a more vigorous vinyasa flow class. 0721 275538.

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September 2018 | LIT Music

BADDERMAN & VIVIANA ODI: IT’S OUR TIME MBANI BY SYLVANIA A

e, popuinger Mark Warung man, er dd Ba larly known as ned arsig y wl ne e th of one oup’s Lit Gr dia tistes by Nation Me ys that the sa l be La rd Music Reco w at the peak music industry is no e years, the th h ug ro Th of its time. been influenced s ha d un so an ny Ke s, however by a variety of thing ming out co es we see more artist lop their own ve de to ing now want unique sounds. ghetto, BadderGrowing up in the to different kinds man was exposed d shape his lpe he at of music th says he is both musical talent. He icist who started lyr a d an composer r but currently ge out as a gospel sin lar music. cu se o int ed has ventur ou d t in a music Badderman starte le Boys in 2015 ko Bo d group calle s. They released singing gospel song Boko” and oko two songs titled “B . o” ng pa “M and I went to “We later broke up s and I felt pursue further studie break for od go a o that it was als ink about what me. I had time to th as an artiste,” ed nt wa I exactly that says Badderman. ck to music He however went ba eting up me er aft er lat ars two ye is also a music with a friend who he has been producer. Since then at he says th sic mu recording new the year ends. re fo be se ea rel he will that I plan to re“One of the songs s’ time is called ek we few lease in a ng about love. so a “Niwe Nawe” it’s rson who has It speaks about a pe rld looking wo e th travelled around of ets the speme y nance me in terms all fin d an for love e, to Nairobi and tim ys sa me dio ” ca bi, stu en r iro th fo Na “I g , of es yin y pa she continu exposed cial one in the cit o als I ich d an wh ke job a rao or if I had started hosting ka Badderman of with different told him I have none I was able to meet d an me o wh try us off he ind ys d pa sic An lly s. mu e rea those thing game players in th He says hard work take.” saytermined and just dismissed me me the direction to ed ow sh because if one is de n k ca loo ld ing th ou sh no I ing that ent has a passion then came during an ev ve finding ks ha or I ea br ng en ini wh big sh r m he him r of fro fo One nt stop them r King Kaka. She we those things,” says attended by rappe rse ve success. a g sin to I d ste ue req d an him Vivian, adding, “but n- up to ng. “I started sig so sic w ne e Mu a es Lit th ds r or he all r ot rec fo am glad ber whenever he Viviana Odi an e studios and I remem r as a songwritexperiences becaus following artistes to saw rapper King Kaka, ee started her caree to estabI t, up a en ck ev me ba g an de they ma one time at er and singin lked gh courage and wa . Her first single better person. And lished music artistes sed in 2016 I mastered up enou d him if I could sing a ea ke rel as a” en ija th I would advise anys!” up to him. I titled “Yamen t song and he said, ye iez Choice en his Te of u e um on Kis on e us th one thinking abou chor won d ha o als e try sh us at . ind th is re ian th joining exclaims Viv Awards. Befo ; ng with singer to do the following ap dis released another so of are sh r he d ha s . ha h le” e arc sh ole r, se , “N ve Howe casit down Kendi called ulges that in one oc she pointments. She div at your inner self if it th r he is ld th to ch er rea uc od uld pr wo I wn t no gh ll-k ou th we r a sion, “I neve is music you want, ed to work cause I have while another refus g, sin uld a co point in my life, be ve you should ask ha rson. But I was cause she did not always been shy pe while in high with her simply be yourself if you are is able to overcome th participating job or any money. in it for the money d rte sta I en wh fischool or the passion.” sor who could and singing asked if I had a spon e “H in the music festival n Union club,” while at the Christia

Hard work really pays off. Badderman

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September 2018 | LIT Music

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ZIKKI’S BIANJU MORRIS: MORE TO MUSIC THAN FAME BY SYLVANIA AMBANI

ensational feel good musician Bianju Morris, the lead vocalist of the band Zikki, is one of the new rising artistes to watch out for. With notable collaborations with recognizable international artistes like Tarrus Riley already in his music repertoire, he says he is not slowing down anytime soon. Bianju narrated on NTV’s Lit 360 show his journey from being a Sunday school teacher to becoming a recording artiste. Undoubtedly drawn to the power of melody, he who is says that he was first drawn to music by watching NTV’s “The Beat.” The most logical step was to start singing to the children at church, who served as an inspiration. “Music has been a big part of my life since childhood. You know lis-

tening to music from the beat on NTV, I always knew that one day I would want to make a career out of it.” He started hanging around mainstream recording studios and when singer-turned-politician Jaguar heard him jamming to a song one day, he got interested. That was the birth of their collaboration “Take It Slow”. The song is based on a true story, of a young man from the ghetto trying to win the heart of a lady from a rich family. He went on to collaborate with rapper Timmy Tdat on the song “Adhiambo”. But even with all the success coming his way, there was a time when he felt like giving up. “There was a time I was actually giving up on the whole thing, but some friends of mine reached out and asked me not to give up since a lot of

people look up to me. Mostly kids in the ghetto who get hope when they look at where I have reached, and believe that they can also get there,” he told the Lit 360 show. He adds, “I want to show my fans and the society at large that there is more to music than just being famous, and that is what I have been trying to do all this time with Jaguar and Timmy.” He says he believes that it is time for artistes to be more professional as the industry is changing. “The scene is changing yes, and we need to be more professional on how we handle things. And we also need to start giving chances to the right people and let talent speak. For me, my goal is to break Continental boundaries, and be recognized worldwide.”

The Evolution of Kenyan Music BY SYLVANIA AMBANI Kenya’s music has come a long way, from the days of hip hop group Kalamashaka who have inspired a generation of rap music, to the days of the famous “Kapuka” and “Genge” sounds. In the 80s and early 90s, Them Mushrooms were a big name. Then we came into the millennium where there was a huge number of fresh voices with the likes of singers Amani, Nameless, the late Esir, Kleptomaniax among others. In a past interview on the Lit360 show that airs every Thursday at 10pm on NTV, music producer Evumbi explained the evolution of music and what influenced it in each stage – up until to-

day. He explained that the current sound started taking shape in the mid 2000’s when we had artistes like Octopizzo King Kaka changing the game with their new styles. Rapper Naiboi says that as an artiste now, one has to be versatile. He first came out as a music producer but was forced to change his career from a producer to a singer. Before he became Naiboi, he was Rapdamu. He featured in two hit collaborations “Welle Welle” in 2014 featuring Timmy Tdat and “Daktari” 2015. Some of the hit songs he has released since he rebranded include “I Wanna Be” featuring DJ Crème, “Ding Dong” and “Too Much” featuring Nigeria’s Fuse ODG. “I had to make the decision of moving from being behind the scenes

to in front of the camera, because one of the leading artistes whom I was working with left. But it was not something new to me; I used to rap before, so making the switch was easy for me,” said Naiboi. He had to rebrand himself, something he say is very important for artistes, although it does not have to be a whole rebranding but good branding. Other new age artistes include the talented three group members of H_art the Band. The group made up of Wachira Gatama, Kenneth Muya and Mordecai Mwini said they were not prepared for how their first song “Uliza Kiatu” was received, becoming an instant hit. “We just woke up one morning and our song was playing on the radio.

We did not know what came with being famous. Here we were, three hustlers whom nobody had given notice, then everything changed,” said Wachira. He adds, “There’s no secret to our success. We believe that we the mirror the society and we write songs on the experiences we or others are going through. I guess maybe that is why people relate to our music.” These are just but a few examples showing the steady growth being seen on the music industry. Ian Mbugua, popularly known as the mean judge on the music talent search show Tusker Project Fame, says that there is a positive change, “I am glad to say that most of our artistes are helping the industry to move forward in some areas. A notable improvement is live shows, which were not common a while back.”

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Thursday, August 30, 2018 | DAILY NATION

September 2018 | Lifestyle

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Nvirii: Sauti Sol Songwriter on the Viral Success of Melanin

BY JACQUELINE KENDI here’s been a major boom in the Kenyan music industry over the past decade. We know of all the DJs, successful musicians, producers and but there is another group of talented individuals who mostly fly below the of radar – songwriters. High on the list the ii, Nvir one is rs write famous song man who co-wrote Sauti Sol’s mega-hit Melanin, the group’s most played song on YouTube. KENYABUZZ: Did you know how big the song Melanin was going to be when you worked on it at the time? NVIRII: Well the first words Bien told me when he showed up to the studio were, “Let’s make a world hit.” And just like that, we wrote it with that mentality and energy. KENYABUZZ: How did you get to write for Sauti Sol? NVIRII: I used to do video content for to them (I’m a video producer) and got t poin one At . ions sess io sit in their stud I was confident enough to share my music work with them. That’s when everything changed.

KENYABUZZ: What other songs or artists have you written for? NVIRII: I have worked with a number of artists in our industry – both gospel and secular – who I can’t disclose until the projects are out. It’s a new thing, so hopefully by the end of the year most of these songs will be out. KENYABUZZ: What’s the trick to writing a good song? NVIRII: Always inject a character to your music, give it life and the baby will grow in the audience’s ears and heart. KENYABUZZ: What’s the creative process when working on a song like Melanin? NVIRII: Have an idea of what

Turn On Your Musicality BY FLORA M’MBONE Music is food for the soul and therapy for all sorts of illnesses. But if you want to be a successful performer, it is not enough to have a great voice or be amazing on the drums. There is so much involved in creating music for the masses. In addition to developing your technical skills, you are more likely to succeed if you learn song-writing, how to present yourself, business skills and more. Here are some of the places that offer music classes and produce some of Kenya’s music geniuses. Sauti Academy: An artist development program for Kenya’s most talented singers at Ksh 30,000 per term (4 months per term) while private voice coaching sessions are Ksh 2000 per hour. During the 1-year program singers work on improving their voice technique, performance skills, song writing and more. Auditions take place 3 times a year. With successful alumni such as Sauti Sol, H_art the Band, Willy Paul, Bahati, Elani, Phy, Toto Afrique, Kaskazini and many others, you can be sure you’ll be the next big thing. Location: Sauti Academy is at Shalom House, St. Daniel Comboni Road (off Ngong Road).

Assoluta Atelier Studios: A music and dance studio based in the heart of Westlands at Western Heights, Karuna Road, 2nd Floor. The studio offers various private and group weekly classes for children and adults for only an hour. The classes include music and dance, gymnastics, kid’s yoga, development of motor skills and introduction to music instruments like piano, drums, guitar, violin, vocal and singing lessons, fitness/martial arts, languages, board games among others. At only Ksh 1500 per class. Kenya Conservatoire of Music: Located at the Kenya Cultural Centre, the school exists to promote the teaching and performance of quality music of all styles in Kenya. In terms of assessment, the Conservatoire has introduced a number of Diploma options for selected subjects such as Conducting, Teaching and Performance. In addition, the Conservatoire is the Kenyan representative for the Practical Examinations of the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) at 2500/-per lesson.

writing pay in Kenya? type of a song you want, then jam to peris NVIRII: The royalty system isn’t that it (as an instrumentalist, the process of earning s way our be have ys do alwa we not but may fect, lt easier). The end resu off the music. what you intend it to be. You might write or a love song and end up with a party KENYABUZZ: Do you get paid before . song, sad song or even gospel! [Laughs] after the song is released? And do you You never know. earn extra when the song charts or beKenin work it comes a popular hit like Melanin did? does How KENYABUZZ: part song a ya? Does the artist commission NVIRII: We sign a split sheet stating s song ugh de thro y-ma all so read , have song the writer, or do you ownership of s, I that you shop around? the life of that song, whatever it earn work r pape good With as ge. get a percenta NVIRII: It goes both ways, but for me you’re ready and secured. a songwriter I come up with a song bank any for y read e henc es, genr of kind of all KENYABUZZ: In your experience, are g Sometimes it just happens, client. Kenyan artists open to the idea of usin could be in a studio you rs? write song session with an artist and just decide NVIRII: Melanin changed most of our “If to help in their artist’s mentality. Now people think, it to cred give and e of project (a lot Sauti Sol can outsourc word n Whe ” me? not why else, that happens). eone som more went out about my role in the song, KENYABUZZ: le peop e mor and in ing com ed start calls Does songices serv such get were bold enough to d as without the worry of being discredite an artist. KENYABUZZ: Is it important to connect with the artist on a personal level when you work on their songs? NVIRII: Totally. You have to understand their sound, character and style. This will play a huge role also in their delivery. At the end of the day, we need the song to have the artist’s character. KENYABUZZ: How do you deal with issues of plagiarism in songwriting? NVIRII: I close down my sessions to only . specific people and register all my work the You’ll need to prove it’s your work at end of the day, so use paperwork. er in KENYABUZZ: I want to pursue a care songwriting. How do I start? NVIRII: Like any other skill, work on it and every day and always listen to more er diverse artists for inspiration. Rememb med infor well be , Also nal. origi to be about the world around you.

PHOTOS: Kenya Conservatoire of Music

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September 2018 | Lifestyle

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Crate Digging: Finding Nairobi’s Vinyl Stores BY MAUREEN KASUKU

usic aficionados, gather around. The vinyl is seeing a comeback! Once of thought to be old school, the preserve algic middle-aged music enthusiasts nost rds are for bands of their youth, vinyl reco enjoying a resounding comeback. or So whether you’re feeling nostalgic ic conmus entic auth an as off wanna show re you noisseur, we’ve got you! Here’s whe you a can get your hands on them. Go get record or entire crate! JIMMY’S RECORD STALL 570 Location: Kenyatta Market

rds at Jimmy Rugami has been selling reco . The 1989 e sinc et Mark atta Keny in his store ous ntur adve man has lived an incredibly second life. From an untrained teacher to a of the one ing own hand clothes retailer to y’s Jimm nd. arou s store rd reco biggest cting eclectic taste means he’s been colle ce Prin From ld. wor the over all LPs from Marto Tabu Ley, heck, even Bob “Nesta” rds, ley! The shop is crammed with reco a few cassette tapes, old record players, e old vintage film cameras and even som shellac discs. of up Some rare gems fetch a hefty price pretty e som get can you but 0 4,00 to Ksh te iona pass is y Jimm neat records for less. from them cing sour , ction colle his about n days a vinyl collectors all over Africa. Seve digging sts usia enth ic mus find ll you’ week, en hidd that for rs through his stall for hou . treasure of Here’s a fun fact, every first Saturday lovLP Day. e Stor rd April, it’s World Reco e. brat cele to shop y’s Jimm at erge ers conv one. next the for Mark your calendar KASANGA MUSIC SHOP Location: Moi Avenue, Nairobi CBD

eth Kasanga Music shop owned by Japh

PHOTOS: TEDDY MURAYA Kasanga, a renowned musician and music producer, has been in business for over two decades. The store has an impressive collection of gospel and Afrobeat LPs. They also have an exceptional collection of continental artists. All LPs are sold at Ksh 500. Open 6 days a week, Monday to Saturday, this iconic store is a great place to go crate digging. HEDGEHOG CREATIVE Location: Sarit Center After following HedgeHog Records on Facebook and seeing their great oldies col-

lection, with new arrivals and commentary, I decided to check out the store at the Sarit Center. It’s eccentric and full of different media such as LPs, EPs, CDs and even some bad azz music instruments. If you’re a crate-digger, this is the place for you! It feels like a funky underground den with dark lighting and graffiti on the bare, brick walls. Top brand items by Roland, Fender, Ovation, Squier and Mapex are strewn all around. Their collection is serious. Prices depend on the novelty of product.

Nairobi Underground BY LENA ANYUOLO Nairobi Underground: Exciting, Innovative, Disruptive “Sonically speaking, I don’t think Nairobi has ever been this exciting before” – Ronjey Five years ago, frustrated by the lack of platforms for new and upcoming artists to showcase their craft, Ronjey Carey Francis decided to start Nairobi Underground (NU). From its simple beginnings as a SoundCloud podcast, the platform has grown, gaining traction and becoming somewhat of an

authority on the underground music scene. ‘Underground’ is a word Ronjey uses sparingly. For him, especially in this age, nothing is underground unless it’s not online, “Nairobi Underground pretty much fills some of the gaps left by the mainstream platforms. Nairobi’s cultural scene is blossoming like a sunflower field. As a tastemaker, there are so many options to

choose from due to technology. Sonically speaking, I don’t think Nairobi has ever been this exciting before.” Nairobi’s music scene is indeed vibrant. From alternative artists like EA Wave and Labdi Ommes to the soulful sounds of Emma Cheruto, it’s almost impossible to not find something you would like. Ronjey describes NU as a multi-media platform that he uses to amplify alternative artists and influence the Kenyan music scene to appreciate the diversity of our sound. A man who is passionate about this mission, he keeps an ear to the ground, scouting social media and offbeat music gigs to find new content to curate on the site.

The impact on the local music scene? RASH and Crystal Axis, both local rock bands, through their connection to NU got a chance

to perform at Nyege Nyege, an annual music festival in Uganda that draws an eclectic mix of attendees from all over the region.

Another example is the #TetuShaniRemixChallenge. “We wanted to catalyse interdisciplinary collaborations between different art forms, so we invited electronic music producers into a remix contest using Tetu Shani’s song with Mayonde called Chemistry. The result was 36 remixes by producers who hardly knew Tetu Shani. That was three years ago and it’s amazing to see where he is now in his career.” Ronjey hopes to collaborate more with Kenya’s creative industry stakeholders to help the platform continue to shine a ‘big, bright light on Nairobi’s talent.’ Check out the NU website on www.nairobiunderground.co.ke.

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September 2018 | Movies

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S A M E IN C O T G IN M O C

PALTAN Film based on 1962 India-China war known as Indo-Sino war. Release Date: 7th September 2018 Genre: Action, Drama, History Cast: Arjun Rampal, Sonu Sood, Jackie Shroff

BLACKKKLANSMAN An African-American police officer from Colorado successfully manages to infiltrate the local Ku Klux Klan with the help of a white surrogate, who eventually becomes head of the local branch. Release Date: 7th September 2018 Genre: Biography, Comedy, Crime Cast: John David Washington, Adam Driver, Alec Baldwin

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THE PREDATOR When a young boy accidentally triggers the universe’s most lethal hunters’ return to Earth, only a ragtag crew of ex-soldiers and a disgruntled science teacher can prevent the end of the human race. Release Date: 14th September 2018 Genre: Action, Adventure, Horror Cast: Sterling K. Brown, Olivia Munn, Jacob Tremblay

JOHNNY ENGLISH STRIKES AGAIN After a cyber-attack reveals the identity of all of the active undercover agents in Britain, Johnny English is forced to come out of retirement to find the mastermind hacker. Release Date: 21st September 2018 Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy Cast: Rowan Atkinson, Olga Kurylenko, Emma Thompson

LOVE SONIA Inspired by real life events, Love Sonia is the story of a young girl’s journey to rescue her sister from the dangerous world of international sex trafficking. Release Date: 21st September 2018 Genre: Drama Cast: Demi Moore, Mark Duplass, Freida Pinto

NIGHT SCHOOL A group of troublemakers are forced to attend night school in hope that they’ll pass the GED exam to finish high school. Release Date: 28th September 2018 Genre: Comedy Cast: Ben Schwartz, Kevin Hart, Tiffany Haddish

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THE NUN A priest with a haunted past and a novitiate on the threshold of her final vows are sent by the Vatican to investigate the death of a young nun in Romania and confront a malevolent force. Release Date: 21st September 2018 Genre: Horror, Mystery, Thriller Cast: Taissa Farmiga, Bonnie Aarons, Jonny Coyne

SMALLFOOT A Yeti is convinced that the elusive creatures known as “humans” really do exist. Release Date: 28th September 2018 Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy Cast: Zendaya, Channing Tatum, Gina Rodriguez

Select Wine from The Wine Shop Collection at Half Price. 0736568610 / 0705466836 Brew RoofTop, Fortis Towers info@thebigfivebreweries.com WWW.THEBIGFIVEBREWERIES.COM

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September 2018 | Movies

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The Predator Teases Unearthly Scares BY LENA ANYUOLO which is a hane Black’s The Predator, is set to be , ase rele 0 201 sequel to the tallment ins t the biggest and scaries out with all nt we Fox . yet in the film series udded r-st sta a , a hefty production budget dator Pre the of e tum cos cast and a 7-foot creature. earth is accidentally The Predator’s return to McKenna (Jacob ry Ro ob Jac triggered by with an uncanny ld Trembly), an autistic chi ges. This new gua lan new rn ability to lea raded their upg e breed of Predators hav abilities. It’s up ed anc enh m the DNA lending led by Quinn ns, era to a ragtag team of vet stop them to ok) lbro Ho yd McKenna (Bo e. rac an from destroying the hum cast is Keegan-MiA curious addition to the le) who plays chael Key (from Key & Pee o joins Quinn wh ns Coyle, one of the vetera We will see . ors dat Pre The to fight off play the funny to e whether he will continu s demeanour. iou ser re mo a on guy or take ase locally on 14th The Predator is set to rele September.

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Thursday, August 30, 2018 | DAILY NATION

September 2018

MUSICIAN ONE LIFE

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