Netizens are in a frenzy after residents of Eldoret seemingly failed to recognize Tanzanian music star Jay Melody during his recent visit.
In a now-viral video, the Mapozi hitmaker is seen atop an SUV, part of a convoy moving through town with his song blasting and security detail in tow.
Despite the star power on display, bystanders barely reacted, with many staring and going about their business without acknowledging him.
This sparked a wave of online reactions, reviving the friendly Kenya-Tanzania rivalry.
pic.twitter.com/JUgb6X4wSv
— CITY DIGEST. (@city_digest) April 20, 2025
“Tuko busy na shughuli za mahindi,” quipped Kevo.
Cate Rian added: “Shida ni in real life hawafanani na videos zao, so muache kublame watu wa Eldy.”
Miju simply noted: “Eldoret wako busy in life.”
@LuischJr blamed it on “Difference between tiktok and reality”
Jay Melody, whose real name is Sharif Said Juma, is a renowned Bongo Flava artist from Tandale, Dar es Salaam.
He rose to fame with hit songs like Nitambe, Sugar, and Nakupenda, captivating fans with his heartfelt lyrics and catchy rhythms.
In 2023, his song Nakupenda won Song of the Year at the Tanzania Music Awards.
He also featured in Puuh with rapper Billnass, a collaboration that won Best Male Hip Hop Artist.
In the same year, he made history by becoming the first East African artist to surpass 200 million streams on Boomplay without releasing an album or EP.