The 30 Percent Podcast
The 30 Percent Podcast focuses on the Kenyan music industry, named after the statistic that 30-40% of music played on Kenyan radio is Kenyan. The show aims to increase this percentage and discusses global music industry trends from the perspective of two music producers based in Kenya.
Episodes
Episode 198 | Tall Kings (with Faiza Hersi)
In this episode we sit down with A&R, Artist Manager, and show curator Faiza Hersi to talk about the origins of her career managing Karun (7:03), music rollouts & working with Altair Said and Xenia Manasseh (26:37), her copyright battle with Anastasia Kirathe (57:53), the upcoming show featuring Yussef Dayes (1:05:50) and more!Pick of the Week: Xenia Manasseh, Ywaya Tajiri - "Aje" produced by Ukwe
Episode 197 | Maslow's Triangle of Entertainment
We begin today's episode with a recap of Watendawili's Wozaa World, and a few observations from the show (7:39). Following that, a live event app, Aluta, was announced, will it change how we experience live shows? (24:22). We then mention the passing of Stoopid Boy, and some of the internets reactions to it (44:10), and finally, we review music that was released this week (47:04). Intro: HOOD BOYZ
Episode 196 | Unstable Ronaldo
This weeks episode begins with a recap of Both Zaituni and Stacy Kamatu's shows that we attended (7:55). After that we debate some hot takes about the Kenyan music scene starting off with Sofiya Nzau’s teased collaboration with Chloe Bailey and Skyla Tylaa. We highlight a claim on Twitter that says Sofiya bypassed all the local gatekeepers (16:50). Following that we tackle whether Millennials are
Episode 195 | For Sure, Allegedly
This week, Faiza Hersi accused Anastasia Kirathe of copying Xenia Manasseh's "Rudia" for her video "Karma" with both Anastasia and the music director denying the claims (16:28), after that, another Jakes Nyanjom of Homeboyz Radio accuses our artists of not creating songs good enough for the International market, is he right? (37:03). we then review new music that came out this week (56:50). Intro:
Episode 194 | Kilimanistan
We start todays episode with a recap of Sam's CBDeep experience and Xenia Manasseh's Album listening (9:11). After that, we get into a conversation on artists and try to answer the question, “What is a performance worth?” (21:16). Next, is CMO news where there is a proposal to collect royalties through the eCitizen platform (43:50). We then wrap up the episode with new music reviews (47:39). Intro
Episode 193 | A Very Mysterious Podcast
Today's episode begins with a recap of the Safari Oontz Rituals show (1:00), after that, Ywaya Tajiri was the subject of some tweets leading us to talk about artists visibility and vulnerability (15:48). Next, super producer Kenny Beats questions producers (and artists) letting people into their creative process (35:48). We then wrap up the episode with new music reviews (56:46).Intro: Kaa La Moto
Episode 192 | Glazing for a Reason
We begin with a recap of The Spotify Greasy Tunes event, and the recent shows we went for (13:20), then we talk about The Recording Industry of Kenya (RIKE) being unveiled as Kenya’s National Agency for the ISRC and news of other Labels planning to join UMG with headquarters in Kenya ( 28:00). After that we discuss the natural progression of artists and the shifting landscape in the culture (38:37
Episode 191 | The PBC
We begin the episode with a recap of our Spotify Greasy Tunes Live show (8:50). After that, we have a conversation guided by entertainment journalist Claris Khalayi about albums and their relevance in todays music scene (15:10) which leads to a conversation about the importance of digital marketing (34:00). We then wrap up the episode with new music releases and our pick of the week (54:52). Intro
Episode 190 | Name and Shame
We begin with an update on the upcoming live show with Spotify Greasy Tunes (15:18), then an update on the ongoing CMO drama with KAMP and the Recording Industry of Kenya (RIKE) clapping back at KECOBO after their accusations (18:30). After that, another update on AI, as a new labeling system is proposed for songs made with it (29:20), then a review of music that came out this week (42:12). Intro:
Episode 189 | Alternative Lil Broism
We begin the episode with a recap of Savinnah's listening party at the Purple Onion, leading to a conversation about alternative music and how to make it successful (17:27), Next The CMOs are fighting again. KECOBO strips KAMP of their right to collect royalties after they were accused of misusing artist royalties and Afam has a theory that may explain why (37:38). We then wrap up the episode
Episode 188 | The Broken Hearts Club
We begin the episode with a recap of the Celebrity Fight Night we attended (3:33), leading to a conversation about artists pivoting to other businesses to make money (16:05). Next, SUNO is paying grants to artists, but should artists give up their rights for the opportunity? (34:19). After that, we go through the week's music releases (50:31).Intro: Teekvy - "WHOAMI" produced by Bent
Episode 187 | Umami
We begin this episode with a conversation ignited by Mbarathi, a sound engineer in the Kenyan Music Scene, who talked on artists skipping the process, putting optics over development (13:19), then, you can now check if your music is being used to train AI using AI Watchdog (37:32), and finally we wrap up the episode with new music reviews (46:25) and a special announcement! (1:03:48).Intro: GTB Em
Episode 186 | The Run Pun Pod
We begin today's episode with a recap of We Are Nubia & Cruel Santino at the Jameson Hangout Nairobi Event that Afam was out for (11:20) which leads into a conversation about artists managing other artists (21:37). Next, we talk about the artists not caring about their music releases (36:28), and then wrap up the episode with new music reviews (46:53).Intro: Keemlyf - "In Love" produced by MP Jazb
Episode 185 | Love and Yearning
We begin the episode talking about our experiences at Blankets and Wine over the weekend breaking down some of the things that went well, as well as what we feel could improve (6:11). Next following Nikita Kering's appearance on Mic Cheque, we talk about the pitfalls of child stars and being in the public light early (32:29), then we talk about new music that was released this week (49:51). In
Episode 184 | Millennial Bonanza
We begin this episode with some shows Afam attended, leading to a conversation about artist development, and when it should stop (4:18), Next, Fathermoh is suing his label Black Market records for 87 Million (14:02). Following that, we talk about Spotify teaming up with UMG to allow Users to create AI covers and remixes on their platform (33:14), and then we discuss the KULTURE show that took plac
Episode 183 | Bums on Seats (with Muthoni Drummer Queen)
To commence our shift into video episodes, we sit down with Muthoni Drummer Queen, the artist and visionary behind the cultural staple festival, Blankets & Wine. Bringing 17 years of experience in curating the culture, Muthoni breaks down exactly who Blankets & Wine was originally built for and how Kenyan tastes have matured over nearly two decades. We look ahead at what’s next for the region's li
Episode 182 | Business at the Top, Party at the Bottom
We begin today's episode by talking about We are Nubia and Xenia's new snippet (7:01), next, an announcement about the podcast (15:53). After that, Bien came under fire for his appearance at the African Forward Concert during President Macron’s visit to Kenya (23:37), then we talk about new music releases (55:47). Intro: Jovie Jovv - "Gwangi Freestyle" produced by LemarioPick of the Week: Sabbiti
Episode 181 | Peak Music Value
Today's episode begins with a conversation on longevity in music, and what it takes to remain at the top (6:46), then, is music discovery on social media today better than the older discovery channels? (19:28). Next, Spotify has begun rolling out verification for artists on their platform (41:00), and Finally, we wrap the episode up with a review of some music that was released recently (43:43
Episode 180 | Kenya is not a Slouch
We begin the 180th episode with with a recap of Afams experience at the Rituals show at Covo Nairobi, as well as Hildah Watiri's listening party (4:00). We then talk about Ongeza Volume's The Set List event that we attended (24:16). Then onto some news, Grammy president Panos Panay will be visiting Kenya to talk with the government about Kenya's potential hosting of the African Grammy's (31:19), a
Episode 179 | Poy Boys
The episode begins with a discussion on rollouts, do we need to bring back the old school way of marketing music? (9:28) One RPM recently started distribution of plaques, beginning with to Vijana Barubaru, what will that do for the industry? (15:46). Next, Spotify is testing a feature that indicates AI involvement in music (34:20). We then talk about what it takes to be successful in music (42:46)
Episode 178 | Two Pack of Class
We begin today's episode with a discussion about whether artists releasing old music is good for their career or not (9:45). Next, is it profitable to make music that does not appeal to the local music scene and contain parts of its culture? Does it matter at all for an artists success? (15:48) Then an update on the Ongeza Volume setlist show, and the Blankets and Wine artist line up was relea
Episode 177 | Room Temperature Take
Black Market Records were in the news recently a with talks about the label and its artist being sued for $1M, leading us to talk about music labels and the ways they take advantage of artists plus the importance of contracts (14:44). Comedian Eddie Butita met with the president to discuss matters of copyright and Octopizzo had something to say about it (27:03), finally, We review new music includ
Episode 176 | Arrows in My Quiver
We begin todays episode talking about Nyashinski's Showman residency at Canivore, and what goes into making a residency successful (15:36). Next, the Base to billboardz initiative announced its six finalists (28:23), we then wrap up the episode with a review of Bridget Blue's lates album "RNB" and more releases of the week (40:42).Intro: 4Mr Frank White - "Tranquillo" p
Episode 175 | The F is for Photography
A week of being outside leads us to talk about Odunsi the Engines visual screening, his performance and what makes Kenya a good hub for artists debuting music (5:42), Then a recap of the Industry Social Event (24:03). Finally, a suggestion was made to label Kenyan music across genres as "Genge" music (33:12). We then wrap up the episode with new music review (48:45).Intro: Caleb Awiti -
Episode 174 | Boots on the Ground Journalism
We begin todays episode breaking down the most recent IFPI music report. Is the African music industry doomed to play catchup to the rest of the world? We discuss this and more (10:39), Then get into a review of Ochiko's recent project Indie Deep, as well as more music (45:16). Intro: JIVU, Khaligraph Jones - "Anitah" produced by DilliePick of the Week: The Babaz - "Salaale" produced by Ras Amor,
Episode 172 | Couch Coaches
We begin todays episode attempting to answer - Are we too harsh on KE artists or are we not critical enough? (12:03), Then, a US ruling on a copyright case against AI art could have implications on creatives Intellectual Property (39:44). Next, CEO of Universal Lucian Grainge tells us where the music industry is headed (47:14). Finally, we review some new music that was released this week (51:07).
Episode 171 | Blue Collar Monkeys
We begin with a brief recap from one of the Kilele Summit sessions, and talk about what success looks like for an artist in 2026 (10:42). Next, a recent X post about a few hard to believe things about the KE music industry does rounds and we go over some of the responses (31:17). A brief Kunye review (48:20), and then wrap up with new music (50:11). Intro: Watendawili - "Naogelea" produc
Episode 170 | We Are Living In Beefy Times
Toxic Lyrikali and Buruklyn Boys beef escalated with more tracks dropped aimed at each other. Who do we think is winning (9:00). Next, Spotify released their 5 year anniversary list, why aren't any Kenyan artists on there? (29:00) Then we talk about EVEN, a direct to consumer platform partnering with music giant UMG, leading to a discussion about how artists can benefit from selling directly t
Episode 169 | 2 V 1
We begin this weeks episode with a recap of We are Nubia's listening party, which leads to a conversation about how to predict a hit, (7:57). After that, more on the Toxic Lyrikali and Buruklyn Boyz beef (22:40), then onto some news. Tiktok thinks of changing their payout model for artists music (36:07), Spotify may begin using AI to pay artists (41:51). Also, Distrokid may be selling, what do
Episode 168 | It's Over for the Z's
We begin today's episode by talking about the Base to Billboardz programme that is underway. Are these types of opportunities beneficial for artists or is it all for show? (10:20), Toxic Lyrikali is in another beef, this time accusing other artists of stealing his style (43:59), and then review some new music including albums from Mutoriah and Muthaka (52:29). Intro: Mr. Right - "Shilling
Episode 167 | We’ve Lost the Recipes
Afam's interaction with an artist recently inspires a conversation on artistry and the use of AI to create (10:26). After that, we go through the 2026 Grammy ceremony winners and talk about the controversy surrounding Tyla's win (39:18) We then review new music (1:02:11) Intro: Caleb Awiti - "HYPNOTIC" produced by Paya BeatsPick of the Week: Mordecai Dex - "Kichapo" pro
Episode 166 | Quintuple Gang
Nonini sat down with Chaxy for a conversation and said some interesting things, we begin the episode by talking about some of them (9:22). Next, an article highlighting Luminate's music report proposed that there is a fundamental shift happening in the music industry (28:24), the Kilele Summit is set to happen in February (40:00). We then wrap up the music with new music reviews (42:36).Intro: 40
Episode 165 | Vitamin O
On today's episode, we address music blogger and critique John Muchiris's statement about wanting to see some of our legacy artists go International, why we think they won't, and then try to answer why the industry seems to be obsessed with our artists going international. Is it necessary? (8:38), then review some new music (47:04).Intro: Savara - "Farova Forever" produced by
Episode 164 | Prophets and Crabs
We begin this weeks episode with a discussion on artists and industry professionals holding each other back (15:08). We then talk about popular American streamer IShowSpeed touring the country (32:06) and then mention Hybe and the moves they are making in the African scene (44:06). We then wrap up the episode with new music reviews (46:34). Intro: AMYRA, Foozak, KUZO (KE)- " Prophecy" pr
Episode 162 | Standards
We begin the episode with a recap of Blankets and Wine over the weekend (7:51), and then go on to discuss the Tukutane show that featured Gabzy and Asake, bringing up the negatives from the show as well as the unfortunate loss of life due to a stampede (25:44) We also talk about Kodong Klan refusing to perform at the same event (41:09), then wrap up the episode with new music reviews (53:57).Intro
Episode 161 | Locking In (with DJ Mura)
We've got a special guest lined up! DJ Mura joins the show to take us through his journey, discussing everything from his beginnings as a DJ/Producer to the nuances of DJ etiquette and the critical role of networking. He talks about ghost producing for fellow producers, and tells us how he curates a successful set as a DJ . We also talk about some of his recent collaborations and his upcoming
Episode 160 | Participation Trophies
We begin the episode with a recap of the Industry event that Sam attended (9:20), The Cavemen were also at The Alchemist this weekend, courtesy of Nairobi Rnb (13:29). We then talk about the upcoming Blankets and Wine show, the line up and what we expect to see plus something special for the listeners of the Podcast (18:51). After that we go over some of our observations for this years Spotify Wra
Episode 159 | Social Engineering
We begin todays episode with a review of Ongeza Volume's The Setlist KE that happened over the weekend then we go deeper into some things that could make our live shows better (11:00). Next, What is important for an artists career? Is it enough to make good music or are there greater factors in determining success? (23:30). We then talk about DJ AG putting a spotlight on Kenyan artists (50:23)
Episode 158 | Dystopian
We begin today’s episode with some international news. Roc Nation has announced that they’re entering the distribution space and will be taking 15% of artists’ royalties, is it worth it for artists? (7:16) Next, we discuss Warner Music’s newly announced partnership with AI company Udio (33:38). Spotify is also hinting at a collaboration with sample discovery platform WhoSampled, potentially integr
Episode 157 | Sprinkle in the C’s
We begin the episode with a review of Show Dem Camp and Blinky Bills Kashata Show at Nairobi Street Kitchen (8:57), Then on to this weeks big conversation. Is Sauti Souls Grammy win legit? Why are our KE artists paid less for shows? And what value does an award such as a Grammy add to an artist? (17:38) Also, we go into the Recording Academy's rule book to see who doesn't deserve one of th
Episode 156 | Suns Out, Buns In
We begin with a recap of the Celebrity Fight Night and talk about Barak Jacuzzis win (6:52), then talk about gentrification in the Nairobi music scene (11:36). Also, it's Grammy season, we go through the list of nominations and offer some criticism for the prestigious awards (37:50) then wrap up the episode with some new music and our pick of the week (43:52).Intro: Ochungulo Family, Ethic, JH
Episode 155 | The New Creatives
We begin this episode with a conversation about creativity, and what we can do to be present in more markets as the Kenyan music industry (7:11), then, we talk about UMG entering the Artificial Intelligence race and what that may mean for artists and creatives moving forward (27:11). We wrap up the episode with new music reviews (41:29). Intro: Albeezy - "Beezy Where U Been" produced by
Episode 154 | Side Quests
We begin this episode by talking about the upcoming celebrity fight nights, and put in our predictions on who wins (10:11), We then discuss Toxic Lyrikali and VJ Patelos ongoing beef (21:38). Radio 254 announced their awards for 2025, and we review the list (38:38). Finally, we wrap up the episode with new music reviews and our pick of the week (52:05).Intro: Nikita Kering, Max Kering, DJ Taric, T
Episode 153 | Nu Nairobi
We begin this weeks episode with a recap of Njerae's Four Letter Word Deluxe listening party (11:10), We then get into. conversation about Nu Nairobi, what it was and why we think it didn't achieve its full potential (19:44). After that, we review some new music (50:56). Intro: AFU, KUZO, Nes Mburu- "Ninapo" produced by Aftab Sheikh, Trvor Dingira, Paul Mwangi, Nes MburuPick of t
Episode 152 | Rats vs Frogs
We begin with a review of the recent Safari Oontz show at Alchemist (10:01) Next, are artists forced to give up their value at the beginning of their careers or does the industry need to change the way it treats 'up and comers'? (14:32), Also, Blankets and Wine could find themselves in court over their September 28th show (35:55), Finally, we wrap up the episode with new music (42:20). Int
Episode 151 | Therapise Me
We start with a conversation about growing old on the music industry leading to us talking about what we feel the industry needs (6:06), also, "If you had a music label in Kenya, who would you sign?" (12:04). Next, Iyanii says he is being snubbed by event organisers and we then talk about what it takes to throw your own show (32:19). After that we talk about Bien on the 2026 Afronation
Episode 150 | Suffering from Success
This week we begin the episode with a conversation about the most recent blankets and wine that happened over the weekend and the feedback from it (10:12), after Afam's rant (31:54), We discuss the Leading Vibe Initiative (35:25), Some reshuffling at Spotify with Daniel Ek switching roles (39:32), and finally we review new music (52:19).Intro: 4RM MR Frank White - "Money Up" produced
Episode 149 | The As Usual Boys
Zeji the Fundi says no one is doing anything interesting. Does the music scene lack excitement? What does it take to be different, and should fans matter in the creative process (14:40)? Also, Gengetone and Arbantone are beefing (38:59). PAVRISK says it has distributed $186,000 in royalties (43:29), then, we wrap up with new music reviews (45:07)Intro: Vallerie Muthoni - "ON MY MIND Freestyle
Episode 148 | It's Your Platform Too
We've got a packed episode for you this week! To start, do we need to change our interview style in the Kenyan industry (12:28)? Next, Sofiya Nzau will be on the EAFC playlist, and Bridget Blue collaborates with Nike and Spotify ((16:49). Bien performed at a sold out show in Meru. Could appealing to different cities around Kenya help or hurt his push internationally (31:48)? We then talk about
Episode 147 | The Game is Still On
We begin this episode with a conversation about artists faking numbers in the streaming era. Are technological advancements ultimately ruining our music listening experience (13:42)? Zaituni released her much anticipated project, Labor of Love, and we give our opinions on it (31:37). Following that, we wrap up the episode with new music reviews (51:42).Intro: KayCyy, Njerae - "Far Away"
Episode 146 | Kompao Chicken
We begin today's episode with some catching up, and Afam finally lets us hear his Kompa beat, are you rocking with it? (1:22), then get into a listener requested topic. How does a music producer get placements? We talk about some of the placements we have gotten and what a starting out producer can do to work with artists (16:52). Apple Music selects Toxic Lyrikali to feature in their Up Next
Episode 145 | Burnout
This week we begin by talking about creative block, what is it? and how can you beat it as an artist (5:19), Xenia gets Bgv and writing credit on Teyana Taylors new project, also, Jamesons music platform Distilled Sounds is returning for a second year and two Kenyan artists Xenia and Kethan will feature on the platform (39:26) We then talk about more opportunities with Faiza Hersi of Soul Headquar
Episode 144 | Laid Up
We begin this episode discussing Nyashinski signing to Sony EA and what it might mean for his career (7:46), We then talk about the upcoming Kaycyy and Njerae collab, with Kayccy hinting to his return to Kenya (23:14). We discuss Tems Landing Vibe initiative (32:04), PAVRISK raising tariffs (39:30), new music reviews (44:09) and more!Intro: DJ Mura K.E, Udulele - "Dunia Yetu" produced by DJ Mura K
Episode 143 | Lo and Behold
Breakout star Toxic Lyrikali is catching some heat for his performance at State House, does political stances help or hurt an artist, also how much control should gatekeepers in the industry have over political stances? (8:53) Next, Matata seemingly had a successful show at Masshouse (36:52). Also, do first week numbers matter in an African context (42:27) We then wrap up the episode with new musi
Episode 142 | Cloutmaxxing
How much does nostalgia in music matter, and is it better to be a music fan today than without technology? (8:56) Parroty had some things to say to Toxic Lyrikali about his rise in music and why he thinks he is rejecting collaborations, what should artists do after they get a hit? (19:05). Following those conversations, we talk about African music and the Shazam charts (50:06). Finally, we wrap th
Episode 141 | The Dog Ate My Laptop
We begin with Afam talking about the breakout of jerk music leading to a talk about mixing genres and whether we need more experimentation in our music industry (4:54) Next, we look into the fairly new Youtube music and its different features as well as KE artist position on other charts (16:57). We then go to the Blankets and Wine line up (38:48). Finally, we go over new music releases (47:01).
Episode 140 | Dark Spirits
We start off we a recap of a few shows, Ywaya Tajiri was at Geco Cafe, and Kethan had his album listening party at Koda (4:17), then get into NACADA and their proposed amendments to the law regarding alcohol consumption and sponsorships, with some artists reacting to the news (12:34). Next, Afam breaks down the brewing beef in the RNB scene leading to a discussion about beef and its role in music
Episode 139 | An Alusa Sandwich
We kick things off with a recap of Chris Kaiga’s show at Bar Next Door (6:18). Then, Joshua Baraka reveals he's actually Kenyan (13:10). We talk about strategy for musicians, using Bien’s latest PR run as an example (20:17). Next up, a review of the new collab from legends Nameless, Wyre, and Juacali (35:39), plus an update on Jesse Mwendwa’s grant win and the “Studio in a Can” project (39:26)
Episode 138 | Popularity vs Longevity
We start the podcast with a round of Would You Rather (2:04). Then we dive into Ayo Lizer’s take on whether success in music industry is about popularity (14:45). After that, we talk about Bien and Matata’s performance at a show in France (35:29). Finally, we end with our takes on last weeks music releases (45:26).Intro: Okello Max - "Taya" produced by RunPick of the Week: Ochungulo Fami
Episode 137 | When the juices start flowing, the juices flow
We begin with a recap of the Safari Oontz and Jägermeister Rituals show that took place over the weekend (10:06), then we talk about some of the Kenyan artists in Paris for the recent music festival and why some Kenyan artists with hits are unable to follow up with more (22:51) Next, we try and figure out why some of the legacy artists music isn't connecting (48:48), finally, we wrap the episo
Episode 136 | Toxic Positivity
This week’s episode kicks off with the Safari Oontz production camp that’s currently underway, leading a conversation about the role of songwriting and production camps (11:33). Next, are friends useful in the studio for artists careers? (31:34). We close things out with new music drops and our pick of the week! (51:22).Intro: Moji Shortbabaa, Chris Clave - "No More" produced by Wuod Omo
Episode 135 | Ragebait
This episode kicks off with a discussion on Stoopid Boy’s recent interview and the broader topic of mental health in the artist community (7:34). We then explore whether hiding monthly listener and follower counts on Spotify could actually benefit artists’ mental well-being (20:46). Billboard is finally launching a dedicated platform for African music, why did it take so long? (35:25). Next up, By
Episode 134 | The Year of the Oontz
We start with a conversation about women in the music production space (3:16), then get into the recent drama in the Oontz community (10:38). Next, Njerae was named Spotify’s EQUAL Ambassador for Africa this June (27:31). We also discuss the recent Kenya–US Creative Economy Summit (34:56), and wrap up with some new music reviews (45:32).Intro: Khaligraph Jones - "Goshoree".Pick of the We
Episode 133 | Big P
This episode kicks off with a recap of the recent Three Truths One Lie podcast episode that got some reaction on social media, what’s better for artists: big social media and spotify numbers or fans who actually pay for shows? (6:33) We then touch on Bien’s appearance on The Breakfast Club (23:36), get into the current state of Shrap and why it’s tough for those artists to break into the mainstrea
Episode 132 | Aura Gambling
This weeks episode begins with a little of what we have been paying attention to (4:50). Kaytranada hilariously found out he will be performing in Kenya at the same time we did, was the announcement a little early? (18:54). After that, Blankets and Wine's upcoming show line up was revealed, we go through the names and what we hope to see from it (36:28), finally we wrap up with new music relea
Episode 131 | One Day
This week's episode kicks off with an update on the William Getumbe vs. Kenya Film Classification Board case, where his song remains banned (7:48). Then, we dive into a conversation sparked by rapper Wangeci’s recent tweet hinting at a "Diddy of Kenya" in the industry (15:24). Next up, Blankets & Wine goes international with a show in the UK. We explore what this means in the con
Episode 130 | Algorithms are the New Religion
This week we have a talk about the algorithms. What exactly are they? (15:00), how do they work? 27:35), and how do they affect the music industry? (40:57). We then round up the episode with new music releases (57:22). Intro: M. Rumbi, Muthoni Njoroge - "Goodbye Goldfish" produced by theNairobiNomadPick of the Week: Jason Sibi-Okumu - "This is My Life" produced by Jason Sibi-OkumuTo bring more awa
Episode 129 | Useful Nepotism
We kick off today’s episode with a review of DJ Grauchi’s playlist curated for Apple Music’s Sounds of Africa campaign, Nairobi’s status as one of Africa’s top music cities, and what it will take for us to evolve beyond being a consumer destination (7:49). Then, we discuss Dan Aceda’s recent appointment to the KECOBO board and the positive impact of veteran artists stepping into leadership roles w
Episode 128 | Has KE Hiphop Fallen Off?
We begin by arguing for and against a Gorilla (2:37), after that, a conversation stems from Idd Aziz performing at Coachella, as we try to figure out if Spotify numbers matter in the KE music scene (8:45). Next, we dive into the state of Kenyan Hip Hop and ask, is it dead? (32:23), the Next Super Star talent search show was announced (46:37), and end with our weekly spotlight on new music releases
Episode 127 | Significantly Deproving
We begin with a review of the Every Picture Needs a Frame screening leading to a conversation about the value that is placed on African creativity (7:25). Bien teased his first single off the coming album leading us to speculate on what he is trying to achieve with the direction he is going in (26:28) after that there is a look at the top ten videos in Kenya (36:03) and then we try to figure out w
Episode 126 | I Took An Oath
This episode kicks off with Kenyan music OG Boneye breaking down why record labels in Kenya keep failing (10:00). Next, we talk about rapper Maandy and the few issues she has had with her latest release Aloo featuring AJAY (33:48), After that, KAMP (Kenya Association of Music Producers) strikes a deal with the South African Music Performance Rights Organization, giving its members access to royalt
Episode 125 | Proposed Beef
We begin with news about Kenyan men being voted most handsome (6:36), after that Mavin's artists visit Kenya for a tour, leading to a discussion about the type of artists that frequently tour our country (11:02). Onto other news, Kecobo allows CMO's to collect royalties (32:43). Also, What's going on at Mdundo & how do we get Kenyans to pay for art in a way that works for all of us
Episode 124 | On the Spot (with Abigael Diana)
An episode a long time in the making, we finally sit down with Abigael Diana of Ongeza Volume to talk about her background and origins in the live music space, what we are doing right and wrong in live music, the importance of community for her platform, as well as some of the different things she is working on and much more!@ongeza_volume @abigael_dianaIntro: Jovie Jovv - "Boy" produced by Lemari
Episode 123 | Positive Gatekeeping
This week, we kick things off by recapping SHLM and Chris Barr, plus Afam’s listening party (08:04). Then, we dive into the topic of gatekeepers in the music industry, and whether they are useful (19:09). After that, we break down the latest IFPI global music report and what it means for the industry (43:44). And to wrap things up, we check out some fresh new music releases (54:18)Intro: MATATA, B
Episode 122 | Glass Ceiling
This week, we start with a recap of the Sonnets on a Sofa writing workshop with M. Rumbi and N’jiru, and share our experience (13:19). Then, we dive into a conversation about success in the music industry—who defines it, and what does it really take? This was sparked by some recent comments from actor Anthony Mackie (24:28). We also take a moment to give a few people their flowers (53:22) and clos
Episode 121 | Shucking & Jiving
Lots of recaps this week—Afam breaks down the Komplex Event (5:00), Sam covers Clark Keeng’s show at Alloy (9:07), and we dive into Fancy Fingers and Winyo’s listening party with a conversation on the rise of the "Kenyan sound" (11:49). We also review the latest Goethe Institut Industry talks hosted by Anyiko Owoko (23:58) before wrapping up with a few more topics and new music (36:59).Intro: Nu F
Episode 120 | Framing a Musty Jacket
We kick things off with a recap of the JGIP workshop Sam attended (8:58), followed by an overview of intellectual property in music (14:57). Next, we break down the Madfun Burna Boy show from this past weekend, highlighting the standout moments (39:13). Finally, we wrap up with a review of some new music (57:17).Intro: LICKY - "Flow Ya Licky" Pick of the Week: Njoki Karu - "Heaven&q
Episode 119 | Culture Politics
This week, we start with a recap of Santuri's Kilele Summit (11:30). Then, we break down Chris Brown's comment about not performing in Kenya due to a "lack of infrastructure" leading to a further conversation about innovation in our industry (22:56). Savara’s latest single, Sianda, had the timeline split, sparking a discussion on culture in art (42:46). Lastly, we dive into some
Episode 118 | Heartbreak
This week, we attempt to unpack why Spotify says heartbreak music is on the rise (11:32), break down Warner Music’s Africori takeover and why we feel having competing labels as well as having dedicated music blogs is good for the industry (23:17), spotlight Kilele’s music workshops at The Mall (37:32), and wrap up with new music reviews (43:11).Intro: Simply Tomas - "Tafadhali" Pick of t
Episode 117 | Busy Bees
We begin today’s episode with Bien’s latest collaborations, which feature older songs and raise the question: should artists be selective about collaborations versus focusing on a solo career? (6:47) Next, we discuss Njerae’s upcoming project rollout and tracklist (29:07), followed by Safaricom’s lawsuit over unpaid producers on the Skiza Tunes platform (38:05). We also highlight Burna Boy’s upcom
