A recent Furaha City concert in Kenya is continuing to ignite a heated debate online, putting Kenyan music fans against their Tanzanian counterparts. The controversy centered around the decision to have Diamond Platinumz, a Tanzanian artist headline the event, a move that didn't sit well with many Kenyans, particularly ardent supporters of Kenyan artist Willy Paul.
Will Paul went to his social media and stated, “ Tanzanian artists being given priority at this event. This is sad. Mbona wakenya wanadharauliwa mbele ya wabongo? Kenyan artists should be treated with respect.”
The incident, which occurred on Saturday, sparked a wave of online outrage, with many Kenyans expressing their disappointment and frustration. They argued that Kenyan artists should be given priority and that inviting foreign artists to headline events in their own country is disrespectful to local talent.
The debate quickly escalated into a clash of national pride, with Kenyans asserting their right to showcase and celebrate their own artists. Many took to social media to voice their opinions, using strong language and harsh criticism to express their discontent.
Among them is the president of comedy Erick Omondi who stated that Kenyans artists are always treated unfairly. He took to his social media and stated, “ It may tary but it will surely come to pass. Mungu halali. We fought for kenyan artists/music for two years non stop. We were teargassed even arrested for pushing equal treatment and pay for kenyan artists. Kenyan artists hawananga V.I.P backstage tends while wengine huwekewa white sofa sets, black tea, white tea, assorted foods, pombe brands zote, polisi, bouncers while a kenyan artist husimama kando ya stage ama nyuma ya tent.”
This incident highlights the complex dynamics of the music industry in East Africa. While cross-border collaborations can foster cultural exchange and growth, it's essential to balance international exposure with supporting local talent.
As the debate continues to rage, it remains to be seen how this incident will shape future music events in Kenya and the region.
