A new king has emerged, or should we say, an 'A-Bald-Man' with a crown that fits just right. Bien-Aimé Baraza, the celebrated Kenyan singer-songwriter and frontman of Sauti Sol, has won the prestigious Trace Award for Best Artist in Eastern Africa. It's a fitting accolade for his brilliance and dedication to music.
The Mora Zanzibar Resort hosted an evening of elegance and excitement, celebrating the finest talents in Afro-inspired music from across the continent. Artists and fans gathered to witness a dazzling array of performances and award presentations.
Bien, the sole Kenyan artist nominated in his category, triumphed over Tanzanian artists Diamond, Harmonize, Marioo, Zuchu, and Nandy, as well as Ethiopian artist Rophnan and Ugandan artist Joshua Baraka. His performance, alongside Marioo, featuring his hit song "Nairobi," captivated the audience and solidified his win. "Nairobi" continues to trend on YouTube and other digital platforms.
Beyond this award, Bien's contributions to music include a Grammy win for songwriting on Burna Boy's acclaimed album, "Twice As Tall." He is a testament to the fact that Kenyan talent can achieve global recognition.
Bien's philosophy extends beyond personal success. He is committed to elevating Kenyan music on a global scale. "If Bien is amazing, people will look for Kenyan music and find other artistes," he has stated, emphasizing his dedication to promoting the country's talent.
He is also a cultural ambassador, passionate about spreading Swahili—a language spoken by 150 million people—around the world. "Let’s make music for that community worldwide and use them to propel us onto the global sphere," he advocates, encouraging artists to connect with their global audience.
The Trace Awards, launched in Rwanda in 2024, are a testament to the growing influence of African music, including genres like Afrobeat, Gospel, and Amapiano. Bien's recent victory further solidifies this movement, inspiring artists across the continent.
Here's to Bien-Aimé Baraza, a true king of Kenyan music, whose crown reflects his talent and the collective spirit of African artistry.
