‘Kenyan art is alive,’ Bien reveals Sol Fest was attended by 6,000 people

It is now emerging that Grammy-certified Kenyan music group Sauti Sol’s much-anticipated inaugural gig, Sol Fest, saw an attendance of over 6,000 concert goers.

Sauti Sol lead vocalist Bien-Aime Baraza, speaking on NTV’s The Trend show, said it is inadmissible to deny the fact that Kenyans are supportive and appreciative of local music. 

“Sol Fest happened and we had 6,000 people in attendance. We couldn’t sell any more tickets because it would have been unreasonable for the experience considering the location and the capacity it could hold,” he said.

“The proof is in the pudding. We have shown that Kenyans are all about supporting Kenyan music. Kenyans are happier when they come out for a night to enjoy what is theirs.”

The ‘Mbwe Mbwe’ hitmaker went on to commend the top notch security that was at the concert.

“This was the first event in which I have not heard attendees complain of theft. It was just good vibes, for us, by us,” said Bien.

According the singer, Kenyan art is thriving and doing well in the entertainment industry.

“If you’re a musician and you are watching this, know that Kenyan art is alive and we are in a beautiful place at the moment. Our fans are really giving us the love  that we deserve,” he stated.

The artist described Kenya as “a place where people come to break and become global,” adding that “we should not underestimate our power in the world.”

Bien opposed the debate started by controversial comedian Eric Omondi about international artists flooding the country for performances saying “the Kenyan audience is a beautiful crowd to perform to.”

“As an artist, you long for places where you are loved. For example, Sauti Sol is loved in other places that are not Kenya. For that reason, we need to allow other artists to come to our country and experience our hospitality as well,” added Bien.