Kenya’s first ever Djs competition is about to go down.

The competition dubbed 'Compe Ni Compe' will see fans take a musical journey through the art of disc jockeying.

The competition targets all DJs with the ability to wow the audience with their art and skills and will see the DJs compete from the comfort of their homes and their various sets streamed live on Facebook Group page –Compe ni Compe – https://web.facebook.com/groups/compenicompe/?_rdc=1&_rdr

The Compe ni Compe winner will be voted by the audience and the winner will be named the “Kenyan DJ of the Year”.

He or she stands to gain street credibility and some monetary incentive.

The timeline of the competition depends on the number of participants who will confirm their availability to take part.

With the ongoing online debate of DJs being cut off during live streaming, the organizer of the online DJ competition Prince Otach said, "The copyright issue is more complex than we think."

He however encouraged Kenyan DJS to join the competition.

“This is an opportunity for true Kenyan DJs to stand up and be counted, Kenyan DJS have been selling us an illusion of an over hyped top DJ, who believe they have it. This is their time to come out and claim their seat at this competition,” Prince Otach Organisers, said.

DJ Kalonje and DJ Brownskin will be joined by top Embu DJ Caril the scratch queen master in the competition.

For many, every month seems to be the start and end of a year, as locals adjust to the “new normal”.

In January, it was about a ‘new year, new me’ and choosing to ignore those 2020 memes, the start of the nationwide lockdown was the beginning of new lifestyle choices by Kenyans, according to data by Uber Eats. 

Self-isolated Savourness 

While the most ordered healthy meal is a toss-up between the delicious yellow bean, decadent coconut of the always welcomed chapati, Uber Eats reports that healthy orders overall spiked at an 82% increase since the beginning of April as compared to the first week of the year.

With many still wary about the restrictions on gyms and those home workouts that continue to buffer, maintaining a robust lifestyle has become increasingly difficult. 

“Kenyans love good food, especially meals that are healthy, vibrant in colour and taste delicious.Since the outbreak of the pandemic, there has been a steep increase in food orders that is fresh, organic and health-conscious, proving that locals are making generous steps towards achieving healthier lifestyles,” says Nadeem Anjarwella, General Manager of Uber Eats in Kenya. 

Favourite Foods Ordered 

Uber Eats reports that the keyword ‘healthy’ grew by a massive 227% from customer searches further solidifying the trend towards living leaner and greener. Vegetable Dim Sum and spring rolls were among the most popular snacks ordered while the immunity booster smoothies were a fan favourite drink, proving that every meal and beverage was given a healthy overhaul by locals. 

“Uber Eats in Kenya is all about celebrating our local tastes and heritage in the food we enjoy together as a country. We are always working to increase our options and bring the food people want, when they want it, in a convenient, contactless and affordable manner.”, concludes Anjarwella. 

South African star Jahzo and Rudebwoy Entertainment have dropped the 3^rd single #JahAhMiGuide off the Dutty wine Album and is available on all major digital platforms for download and streaming.

Jah Ah Mi Guide is an inspirational song that talks about Jah being the only hope for the Covid-19 since the cure is yet to be found.

Jahzo, who hails from Thohoyandou, Limpopo Province South Africa says, “I fell in love with dancehall music during his days studying at Varsity College in Cape Town.”

“I have been listening to dancehall music since and fell in love with it due to its uniqueness and message, I grew up listening to the music of Anthony B, Assassin, Buju Banton and Capleton," He adds.

Jahzo is currently shooting the visuals for the track which he expects to release on his birthday later this month.

Nigerian music heavyweights, rapper Vector and super music producer MASTAA a.k.a Masterkraft team up to release a new collaborative EP ‘CROSSROADS’.

With three studio albums, 2 EPs and 2 mixtapes under his name, Vector proves yet again his prowess and artistry laced with masterful lyrics, wordplay and unique rap.

 A redefinition of rap in the African music landscape showcasing Masterkraft’s production and Vector’s rhythm and poetry, the 5-track EP features the slow-tempo ballads: “No Peace”, “Blessed”, “If We Must” and Afrobeat hits: “No Worries” and “Eyan Colgate”. DJ Magnum, Sun X Rain and DJ Neptune feature in EP collaborations.

Vector says, “This body of work is a deviation from the norm designed to captivate the sense. If rebellion was music, this would be it.”

Stream CROSSROADS here: https://smarturl.it/Crossroads.EP

COMFORT video on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kH_uOey4GmQ

ALAYE JOR JOR JOR video on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r8xSwaBXJEs

Produced by SELF, Vector and MASTAA, CROSSROADS EP is a journey into something new, eclectic, rhythmic and refreshingly different. 

It’s a unique blend of Afrobeat’s signature rhythm in rap, creating a revolutionary sub-genre (Rapfrobeat) that will definitely open the doors to a new wave of musicians. 

Coming off the successful of his 9-track EP ‘VIBES Before T.E.S.L.I.M’ and his latest hit single “COMFORT” featuring Davido, Vector presents a project that will entertain you and also leave you reflecting with CROSSROADS EP.

Popular and influential music chart, Billboard recently published an article detailing how musicians can go global through YouTube with a case study of Diamond Platnumz.

The Billboard analysis shows that the WCB President has managed to garner over 980 million views on YouTube with over 3.6 million sub-subscribers, making him the only artist in Sub-Saharan Africa with such a milestone.

YouTube Music Trends manager Kevin Meenan was particularly struck by the innovative approach that Tanzanian Bongo flava artist Diamond Platnumz takes with his Youtube channel just one facet of an entrepreneurial strategy that includes an FM radio station.

He was also struck by Diamond's full service management, recording, publishing and entertainment company, Wasafi Classic Baby, which represents Rayvanny among other top music acts.

Rayvanny and Harmonize  have also been featured on the list of 15 sub- Saharan African artistes based on Global views Billboard.

“In that time, Platnumz has a mind-blowing 3.6 million subscribers and 980 million views on his channel, about 80% of them from outside of Tanzania. For the measurement period of May 1, 2019, to May 1, 2020, globally, Kenya, which is on Tanzania’s northern border, drove the most views for Platnumz, followed by Tanzania and the United States,” said Kevin Meenan.

He also was wowed that in span of 1 year, Platnumz had posted 600 videos on YouTube.

“I literally had to check it three times to make sure it was right,” said Meenan in what he described as mind blowing.

Bongo flava artists dominate YouTube’s Tanzania chart and Afrobeats stars in Nigeria and Ghana. 

Top 100 songs in Nigeria and Tanzania were compared for the same week and shared nine tracks. 

The United States and Tanzania shared four songs in their respective top 100, according to the YouTube music and culture.

''Local music cuts through because it's reflective to the culture. It really speaks to how these countries are theri own musical ecosystem'' said Meenan.

According to the analysis Diamond's most views are from Kenya, followed by Tanzania and the United States

Billboard is one of the most influential platforms in determining the music trends in the United States.

https://www.billboard.com/articles/business/9393686/how-to-go-global-on-youtube-watch-and-learn-from-africas-top-music-stars

Sarova Hotels and Resorts yesterday celebrated Madaraka day with frontline healthcare workers at both Kenyatta National Hospital and Mbagathi Hospital in appreciation for their selfless devotion to save the lives of Kenyans during the pandemic.

The hotel has been providing meals to the healthcare workers for the past 40 days with over 8,000 meals so far as a gesture to say thank you and recognize the bravery and commitment of the heroes and heroines in the facilities who have put their lives on the frontline to lead the war to eradicate the virus.

Sarova Hotels and Resorts Managing Director, Jimi Kariuki applauded the healthcare workers and reiterated that Sarova will continue working with the Government and authorities by offering support during this period.

He urged Kenyans to continue adhering to the recommended guidelines from the Ministry of Health. “If we do so, we shall overcome," he added.

In this time of crisis, the Hospitality and Tourism Industry which has instantly been affected following global lockdowns and travel bans, has made a bold choice to come together and join in the fight against Covid-19 by offering support to the Government, Health workers and the Community.

Under the #TourismKECares campaign, the pandemic provides an opportunity for the Tourism and Hospitality Industry to come together and show its unequivocal support in the fight against Covid–19 under the umbrella of the Ministry for Tourism and Wildlife.

Lush beaches, tantalizing senses, heavy technology, and visual surprises.  “I want my audience to feel the words”, is all Viola cares about with her latest hit, “I Like It”.

Video shot by Director Joowzey, Audio Produced by Kimambo, mixed and mastered by Lucas Bikedo. 

Check out “I Like It” video here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9E2cjxr0_1U

The catchy beat by Kimambo, paired with Viola’s luscious vocals will most definitely leave you asking for more.

The crisp music video shot on pristine Tanzanian beaches feature colorful scenes and energetic visuals under the direction of seasoned music video director, Joowzey. 

About Viola Karuri:

Viola Karuri is a firm believer that music shouldn’t just be heard but felt and experienced.

The acclaimed singer-songwriter fell in love with music at a tender age and began her professional music career at the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA where she studied Vocal Performance, as well as Music Production & Engineering.

A force to reckon with in the East African music scene, her style is always powerful, tantalizing hits.

In 2017, using her signature style, she adapted the mega-hit ‘Despacito’ into Swahili, which grew her fan base and continues to expose her to new listeners.

In 2019, she became Coke Studio's First Female music super-producer, a moment that was not only career-defining but also rewarding & empowering. It was not just a win for her, it was a win for the African woman.

‘I Like It’ is her first single which sets the stage for what she has in store for her fans in 2020.

Newest up-and-coming Afro-Pop artiste Badman Anchor has dropped the visuals to his debut single Badman off his upcoming album titled Mastermind.  

The new catchy dancehall/Afro-Pop vibe is different from his previous works which were bongo ballads. On this one he enlists super producer Magix Enga as he switches it  a notch higher with his angelic voice

The visuals have been directed by award winning videographer Nezzoh Montana.  The video is now available on YouTube and online platform – Skiza 8549326

YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UVsNMY7KiX0&feature=youtu.be

This is Anchors first project and it’s off his debut album set for release later in the year.

Badman looks forward to collaborating with local international acts in the next five years to solidify his presence in the industry.

With two explosive singles under his belt and more to be released soon, Badman is set to continue work on his upcoming album release that will be communicated to the media soon.

 About Badman Anchor

Badman Anchor is a Kenyan rising artiste whose music genre ranges from Afro-Pop/Dance-hall and some bit of Bongo. He got his start in music early, with encouragement from his mum who supported him to pursue his dream. Born and raised in Ruiru, Anchor hopes to inspire young upcoming talents in the music industry and also inspire the society through his music. Anchor has developed his own voice. Badman Anchor’s sound is unique and does not fit the mold of one genre. A multidisciplinary at heart, this is just the beginning fans can look forward to from the new artist.

Kenya’s growing female sensation SERRO hits a career milestone with the release of her first album - Kuwe.

A Zulu word translating to “For You”, Kuwe comes 4 years after the singer debuted her single Rongai (2016).

In the 14-track album, Serro not only displays her vocal growth but also vulnerability by sharing her journey through music and life. 

Written in blends of six languages: Luo, Kikuyu, Giriama, Swahili, Zulu, and English, Kuwe holds ballads, serenades, songs of thanks, and the misgivings of love and life.

Serro flaunts her musical diverse musicality in the album with fusions of neo-soul in Aheri, Okello, Kuwe, Asante, Reggae in Hey Baby, Benga sounds in Kasyoki, Pop in Ya Dunia, Niiuradukania, Salsa in Mtumwa and jazzy elements in Rongai. 

Stream/Download Kuwe - https://serro.streamlink.to/kuwe  

Download Kuwe Assets (Images, Artwork, Tracklist & Credits): https://bit.ly/KuweAssets   

About the album, Serro says, “I hope that my listeners connect with the music because I believe we’ve all gone through an experience or two that I shared in the album.

On the timeliness of the release, she adds, “I think this would be a good playlist to ponder upon, now that we have more time to connect with ourselves and others during the lockdown.”

From the album art to lyrics, Serro is paradoxically seen as fierce yet calm, playful yet mature and graceful through her ups and downs.

In Aheri, she tells a story of love turning sour and eventually betrayal, resentment, and regret in love set in Rongai, Mtumwa, and Hey Baby. Serro takes us back to her long lost love in Okello and shares the beauty of a mother’s love in Mama and Niind.

The transition of love and relationships from newness and admiration in Kasyoki to deep infatuation in Niiuradukania, to progress in a relationship in Ahiko is visible.

Kuwe was co-composed and produced by Mutoriah - a gifted producer and musician in his own right who has collaborated a lot with Serro in her projects.

“I really enjoyed working with Serro, she’s musical, experimental, and pushes boundaries. Her open-mindedness makes her easy to work with. Her talent and musical ear also make the process exciting. Our souls are on the same frequency, I love it!” says Mutoriah, sharing on Kuwe’s creative process.

For the past 4 years, Serro has been releasing singles that continue to grow her fandom and attention from different stakeholders in the entertainment industry.

Through her electric live performances, she continuously woos Kenya as a top performer.  Kuwe’s release marks the beginning of the next phase of her career, which includes an ambitious regional takeover.

The much-anticipated solo debut album by Steph Kapela is finally out.

Vikky Secrets is an introspective perspective of love. A sweet love that sours in the end like most love stories. It explores some of the issues no one likes to talk about in a personal and vulnerable way through themes such as intimacy, the other woman, sex addiction, chasing fantasies and regret of lost love.

The nine (9) track album pulls back the curtain and lets in the listener into the good, the bad and ugly sides of a relationship.

When asked why this album and why now, Steph Kapela stated the following: ‘This album for me at least, is the right album for the now. I needed to find myself, find the love again, I wanted to hold nothing back and deal with all of it, love, lust and longing, and I feel many people need that right now, especially being isolated with their loved ones. It's good to explore how things go right and how they go wrong and just maybe find a way through it.’

The sound of the album is a cocktail of Trap, Hip-hop, RnB and Afropop dance anthems.

The production is a collaboration on an international scale. Several highly skilled and passionate professionals worked on the audio production of this project. From Giggz and Festus in the US, Kaxi in Malawi and Nelson Cryptic, Jeraw Beats, and Ivan Odie right here in Nairobi.

Vikky Secrets is Executive Produced by Ivan Odie of Callivan Creatives, Recorded, Mixed and Mastered at Callivan Creatives Studios.

The album is now available on all digital streaming platforms.