Award winning Kenyan Gospel singer and song-writer  Manolo presents his new music video titled 'Tawala', a straight banger.

Check out "TAWALA" Video Here: https://youtu.be/jlv WN6 PhWg

ABOUT THE SONG - TAWALA

It's been three years since Manolo ventured out as a solo artiste, after 6 years in the urban gospel group Recapp.

Within this period Manolo has reinvented himself both as a great songwriter and singer. His music has transitioned from the urban gospel sound into a mainstream sound that endears to a wider audience.

The quality music videos that accompany his singles have also played a part in the massive airplay he has been receiving especially in the year 2020.

Tawala the song is how God reigns over everything. How overwhelming it is that HE exists in and out of time. How everything is HIS. It's a joyful song because God reigning means everything is in good hands and under control.

Manolo has had an impactful music career; having began his professional music career in 2012 as the lead member of Recapp, an urban gospel group, together for 6 years before going solo. As part of Recapp; they released a total of 2 albums – Ambition and Proud to Be a Christian.

Manolo’s won in the Afro-Pop Song of the year category in the 2020 Verse 5ve Awards and his song Testimony was nominated and won in the 2021 Rhema Awards. 

He is the founder of Siko Solo; An initiative aimed at creating and sustaining a platform to address mental health issues.

Kenya’s Men’s and Women’s 3 x 3 Basketball teams have qualified for the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

Both teams booked automatic slots by virtue of being ranked second best teams in the continent since Egypt is not a member of the Commonwealth Country.

The games will be held in Birmingham, United Kingdom.

This is Basketball 3×3’s first ever appearance at the Commonwealth Games with the more familiar 5 x 5 version of the game being contested twice at the Commonwealth Games, first in Melbourne in 2006 and Gold Coast in 2018.

The men’s team comprises of Fidel Akoth, Ronald Gundo and Martin Buluma while the women are Oluoch Taudencia, Melissa Akinyi, Natali Mwangale and Christine Akinyi.

In 2019, the team participated at the All-African Games and came in fourth then took part in the African Cup Games in Kampala where they finished sixth last year.

The African King of Bald Men, Bien-Aime, has released his first solo EP titled - ‘Bald Men Love Better’ in collaboration with well-known Kenyan jazz maestro, Aaron Rimbui. \

This follows the success of the project’s lead single “Bald Men Anthem” that has surpassed 1 million streams across all digital platforms since its release 3 weeks ago.

Bien-Aime and Aaron have today released the second music video of the EP titled “Mbwe Mbwe”.

“Mbwe Mbwe is undoubtedly my best song in the EP, “It’s a song about making merry and enjoying the spoils of your hard work" Bien said.

It was a very beautiful challenge from Aaron to Bensol and I to write a Rhumba song that resonates with the 80s. 

“Mbwe Mbwe” on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AL9yXKjhWXY 

 Stream ‘Bald Men Love Better’ EP

At a press conference held on Friday, 5th November 2021 in Nairobi, Kenya - Sauti Sol’s creative enterprise also announced Bien’s signing to Sol Generation Records as a solo artist.

The three year deal worth 50 million Kenya shilling will see him record and release his solo music and albums under the Sol Generations outfit. Bien-Aime's project ‘Bald Men Love Better’ is the first release under Sol Generation Records through a joint venture with Exodus Entertainment.

The 5-track EP features the newly released single “Mbwe Mbwe”, “Bald Men Anthem”, “Stamina”, “Coming Home” and “Reset Rewind”. 

Aaron says of their collaborative project, “Bien and I will always make art and music when we meet. We did a live recording for the whole album. It was a project of fast executions but you can feel the timelessness of it and I love it for that.”

Bien adds, “When we started making the project, I didn’t know what to expect. We were not trying to exist in any genre and the music we made is not in any genre. I did not expect it to be that beautiful and I hope our fans, old and new, will feel the same.” 

“Bald Men Anthem” is a song about self love and self worth.

The anthem echoes the EP’s concept of self-love and accepting yourself for who you are. For a long time around the world bald people were made to feel like they did not belong; it was embarrassing to be a bald man.

This is an anthem to make bald men feel secure within themselves and reflect positively on how they live their everyday lives.

This is also an anthem for those who are not bald - it’s an ode to make you feel confident and have more self-worth. Co-written with Bensol, “Stamina” expounds on the experience of the evolution from a boy to a man, and the challenges men go through in their lives in this transition. 

Bien says, “It's  a reminder to make hay when the sun shines and use your youth  wisely and dance when you still have stamina”. “Coming Home” is an interlude and a jazzy version of one of Sauti sol’s classic hits, inspired by the duo’s deep love for the original song.

Written by Bien-Aime and Chiki during the pandemic in hope for better days; “Reset Rewind” is a song about uncertainty - penned during the pandemic at a time when we didn’t know when we would have our lives back in order. “Mbwe Mbwe” as Bien fondly says, takes him back to his younger days, being a child listening to Rhumba music and playing with his uncle's radio.

“It reminds me of places I ate fish in town like a place called Abondas and Ronalo, among many others. They would always play Rhumba.” he says.

Bien-Aime and Aaron Rimbui might seem like world’s apart but the longtime collaborators are a perfect show for soul meets jazz. Their first collaboration “Say Mama” was released in 2016. Aaron also collaborated with Sauti Sol on the original “Kuliko Jana”.

Bien says, “We have always made music when we had the chance to break bread. He’s in Kenya right now visiting from New York where he lives and I am sure that for the 8 weeks he’s around we will be making music. Bald men love better tunes on the way.”

Jomvu Member of Parliament Badi Twalib has pledged to support budding cinematographers in his constituency as a way of empowering the youth to explore their talents.

Speaking during the launch of 'Siwema', a film by Big Shark Youth Group, the MP stated that he was ready to offer the youth support through the Jomvu NG-CDF kitty and the Uwezo Fund to assist them cover production costs.

He stated that the film industry at the Coast and the country was growing at a fast rate hence the need to invest into the industry adding that the industry has the ability to create job opportunities for the youth to help tackle the challenge of high unemployment rate bedeviling the youth across the country.

The Sunday event was graced by representatives from the Kenya Film Commission and a number of renowned coast based artists and film producers.

 "As an MP I want to assure you my total support, we shall knock every government office that deals with the film industry to ensure that you receive the much needed help you require from equipment to technical support and even marketing and distribution," said Twalib.

 "I want to tell you that the film industry pays, just like Hollywood(US), Bollywood (India) and Nollywood (Nigeria). Let us have hope that we can get to those heights. I believe that if we partner with government film agencies we shall be able to make you go far and make money for yourselves," said Twalib.

He further stated that he was going to do more in nurturing other talents like football promising to come up with a trial program that will see youths have the opportunity to go for trials in coastal based teams like premier league tier Bandari FC.

The MP further asked the youth to put effort in the academics even as they explore their talents while cautioning to shun drugs and gangs.

"I want to beseech you to shun violence especially as we approach the next general elections, democracy allows you to support a candidate of your choice, but don't fight because of politicians, politics will come and go," he added. 

Also present at the event was Stephen Konde, a renowned coast-based film production manager for the Swahili series 'Pete' who promised to offer technical support to the budding cinematographers. 

"I am here today with part of my crew to offer these young lads support, we shall give them technical know how by exposing them on the best equipment and on how to produce standard films, we shall organize a workshop for them to improve their skills," said Konde.

He added that they were wiling to sponsor one of their film to propel them to international standards. 

The Nest Collective is proud to share the long awaited premiere dates for “The More Things Change”, as well as the new screening details, so that everyone can finally watch it! TMTC will be watched for the very first time at the NBO Film Festival, on Friday 12th November 2021.

Thereafter, it will be available to all, for absolutely FREE viewing, on The Nest Collective's Youtube Channel from its online premiere on Wednesday 17th November 2021, from 10AM!

Catch TMTC’s short teaser here

Watch the longer, much more juicy trailer here! 

“The More Things Change”, or TMTC for short, is a fiction anthology feature film from the Nest Collective 2 years in the making, slated for release this very month! The film was made in partnership with Forum Civ, as part of the Wajibu Wetu program.

TMTC has been described as a slow-burn, cerebral, dramatic thriller.

It boasts the unique narrative of looking back into Kenya’s political past, and then exploring the present, as well as imagining an exciting potential speculative future, to explore resistance by individuals and communities.

Co-directed by Collective members Akati Khasiani and Mars Maasai, the film explores what happens when an ordinary girl takes on a powerful adversary at great personal cost.

TMTC is proud to present leading talent Nyawara Ndambia as its star. A fiery performer of great flexibility and power, Nyawara was most recently seen in the highly acclaimed Kenyan comedic drama Supa Modo, where she starred as the beautiful, determined and assertive Mwix.

TMTC also features several other Kenyan stage, TV and film actors of note! These include Melvin Alusa (Mission To Rescue, Crime and Justice, The First Grader, The Boy Who Harnessed The Wind), Bryan Ngatia (Too Early For Birds), Emmanuel Mugo (Sense8, Pillow Talk, This Is Life) and young luminary Stycie Waweru (Supa Modo, Just In Time, Lusala).

 “We’re really happy to be so close to the release, after many months of work from so many talented people. We can’t wait to see how folks will react!” said Njeri Gitungo, the Nest’s head producer.

Parents have been urged to help curb cases of indscpline in schools by providing advise and counselling to their children when they break for mid-term.

Jomvu Mp Badi Twalib advised parents to get closer to their children and instill in them proper morals during the four days break expected to begin from November 19 to November 23.

"What is happening in our schools is not accepted at all" said Badi.

Adding "It is hightime that as parents we now take up the role of speaking to our children".

Addressing residents of Miritini in Jomvu constituency, Badi also called for a permanent solution to the cases of students unrest from all stakeholders including the government.

On thursday last week, Education Cabinet secretary George Magoha stated that the government would not take responsibility for the loss incurred by schools following the recent spike in fire incidences, which saw dormitories, laboratories and classes go up in flames.

The CS stated that the government would not contribute towards rebuilding dormitories burnt by students.

British vocalist and founding member of UB40 Terence Wilson better known by his stage name Astro, has died.

Astro died aged 64 after a short illness.

The news was confirmed by former colleague Ali Campbell.

"We are absolutely devastated and completely heartbroken," said a statement on Ali Campbell and Astro's Twitter account.

Adding ""The world will never be the same without him."

Astro left UB40 in 2013 and went on to perform with breakaway group UB40 featuring Ali Campbell and Astro, which had played some concerts this year and was due to go on tour in 2022.

The original band broke through in the early 1980s with their unique take on British reggae and found success with hits like 'Red Red Wine' and 'Can't Help Falling In Love.'

In total, UB40 have recorded 39 UK top 40 singles and 28 top 40 albums, with Astro singing lead vocals on the hit 'Rat In Mi Kitchen' which reached number 12 in 1987.

The group also enjoyed success around the world, including in the US, where 'Red Red Wine' went to number one, as did another cover, 'Can't Help Falling in Love with You,' which spent seven weeks at number one in 1993.

The original line-up played together for three decades before Ali Campbell left in 2008.

A statement from the current UB40 line up on Twitter said: "RIP Astro.

"We have heard tonight, the sad news that ex-member of UB40, Terence Wilson, better known as Astro, has passed away after a short illness. Our sincere condolences to his family."

Apple Music today announced the latest featured artist in its Africa Rising artist development program as 24-year-old Nigerian-born Afro-fusion singer-songwriter, Buju (real name Daniel Benson).

“I’m happy and proud to be the next Apple Music Africa Rising artist', said Buju. "I appreciate the genuine love and support my fans and the Apple Music team have shown me and I promise to never stop.”

An acronym for “Beauty Underneath Just Understood”, Buju’s calling to be a performer manifested itself while he was unhappily studying IT at university. After fully realising his vision of being a singer, songwriter and record producer, he released his first single “Catch A Vibe” (2018) to hungry ears. 

It was his viral hit “Spiritual” featuring Zlatan (2019) that skyrocketed him into the charts, earning him a nomination in the “Rookie of the Year” category at Nigeria’s HipTV Headies Awards the same year, and then a win at the City People Music Awards for “Revelation of the Year” (2020).

Perhaps his biggest career milestone came in 2020 when he released a remix of his hit single “L'Enu” featuring his idol Burna Boy. He has frequently referred to the experience of getting to meet and work with the Grammy Award winner as one of the highlights of his life.

Buju’s debut album Sorry I'm Late, available to stream on Apple Music now, is a seven-track tour de force of modern Afrobeats hooks and traditional Afro-rooted melodies, and does an expert job in introducing the essence of his craft to a global audience.   

The latest music from Buju along with that of Africa’s hottest new artists, is available now on the Apple Music Africa Rising Playlist.

Apple Music’s Africa Rising, is an exclusive artist development programme and companion playlist geared towards identifying, showcasing and elevating rising talent and introducing the next generation of African superstars.

Africa Rising alumni to date include: Omah Lay, Manu Worldstar, Tems, Amaarae, Ayra Starr, Yaw Tog, Blxckie and Nikita Kering. Africa Rising sees Apple Music select six artists every year who each receive a minimum of two months of editorial support across the Apple Music platform including a launch interview with Nadeska on Apple Music 1. Nadeska has also launched a new weekly Africa Rising feature on her show highlighting the hottest new artists on the continent.

Africa Rising is the latest of many Apple Music initiatives aimed at taking African talent to the world. Now available in 33 countries across Sub-Saharan Africa, Apple Music 1 is home to Africa Now Radio with host LootLove which has featured interviews with some of the continent’s hottest artists such as Tiwa Savage, Yemi Alade, Cassper Nyovest, Mr Eazi, Patoranking, Rayvanny, Kiddominant, Mayorkun, Fireboy DML, Adekunle Gold, Master KG, Yaw Tog, Blxckie and Nikita Kering.  

Last month, Apple Music announced artist/producer Tems as the latest addition to its Global Up Next program. Apple Music also selected Nigerian Afropop star Rema as its Up Next artist in 2020, following the addition of Burna Boy to the roster in 2019 and Mr Eazi back in 2017. Up Next is Apple Music’s global emerging artist program.

The sound of the crackle of rally exhausts filled the air today morning at the Karen Waterfront as a mini version of the East African Safari Classic Rally took off in earnest.

Teams from countries including USA, Bulgaria, UK, Zimbabwe, Oman and South Africa are competing for the ultimate prize against the strong Kenyan representation, including former winner Ian Duncan.

The three-day event will cover over 1,000 kilometres across the tough, but stunning, Amboseli terrain synonymous with the world's greatest classic rally.

“The day is finally here. We’ve undertaken all efforts to ensure the safety of drivers, rally enthusiasts, passersby and wildlife, whilst putting on a magnificent show. Amongst other criteria, our course is designed to avoid populated areas and heighten general safety awareness among drivers and the community”, Event Director, Tash Tundo said.

This mini rally is being held as a precursor to the 10th edition that is set to take place on 10th –18th February 2022 and all plans have been put in place to ensure motorsport enthusiasts are treated to a spectacular show.

Leading the Kenyan charge will be Eric Bengi and navigator Gatimu Mindo, who competed in this year’s 2021 WRC Safari Rally, competing in the East African Safari Classic Rally for the first time in an iconic rally car, the Datsun 180B.

Other marquee rally brands such as Porsche, Ford, Skoda and Peugeot are joined by “Raid” vehicles including cars and buggies from CR-T and Land Rover.

In consultation with the Ministry of Health, the event competitors, organisers, sponsors and support staff will adhere to strict COVID-19 protocols including mandatory and regular PCR tests, social-distancing and wearing of masks.

“As a significant group of people, we have taken our responsibility with regards to COVID-19 particularly seriously, creating one of the largest sporting bubbles in Africa.” added Tundo. That sporting bubble will also bring significant investment into hard-hit, tourism sensitive economies such as Amboseli, with over 1,000 hotel rooms being occupied and an injection of more than $1m into the Kenyan economy.

Whilst the local economy benefits, the eyes of the world will be able to follow the rally through new technology innovations including live-tracking of vehicles, available at the rally website and across its social media platforms including Facebook and Instagram.

“Kenya is an amazing landscape for a rally. Whilst the terrain is challenging it is also absolutely stunning and we have a team of media capturing it with the intent of sharing Kenya and our rally with the world” Tundo said.

Multi-Award AFRIMMA Nominated South African rapper, BLXCKIE is gearing up to land on the shores of Kenya this week as part of a short tour of Africa which kicked off in Lagos, Nigeria last week. 

On his first trip around the continent, BLXCKIE is excited to travel to Nairobi for a series of events and key engagements with Kenyan artists and producers.

Through his dedicated hard work, the rapper has had an incredible 2021 with the release of his debut album B4Now on 21 May 2021 – which continues to be the no.1 Hip Hip Album in South Africa.

The 12-track album has proudly earned the no.1 spot on Apple Music, Spotify, Triller and Audiomack and over 1million streams on digital platforms.

Gaining vast popularity in the last 6 Months, Blxckie has attracted audiences from all parts of the continent and is taking the time now to connect with fans across Africa. 

In August 2021, Blxckie extended his project with 8 additional songs for B4Now Deluxe Album. Combined, the project boasts hit songs with notable features including Ye x4 ft Nasty C; Big Time Sh’lappa ft Lucasraps; Stripes ft Flvme; Woah ft Rowlene; Joy ft Oxlade; Tired ft Christer. He also brings in his Clout Internet fraternity on tracks Guns & Roses ft Alone; and Quickmaths ft LeoDaLeo.

Attaining international appeal, Blxckie has been featured on popular Apple Music shows; The Ebro Show with Ebro Darden and Africa Now Radio with well-known Nigerian DJ, Cuppy; for album hit singles such as Sika - which is off B4Now (Deluxe).