“My world of percussion has always been shaped by the very best. I have performed with world-class artistes across the globe, and when it comes to my art, I know I am different.” Those words capture the essence of Idd Aziz, a high-flying Kenyan Afro-house singer and songwriter whose sound has travelled far beyond his homeland. In this exclusive interview, he reflects on dining with the elite of world music, commanding airwaves across Europe and Southern Africa, and staying rooted in authenticity in an ever-shifting industry. His musical journey began remarkably early. By the age of 15, he was already touring…
Author: Solomon Koko
Eric OneWash [Courtesy] Eric’s journey began long before anyone recognised his name. For 13 years, he dedicated himself to hairdressing, refining his craft until his chair became a place where stories, ideas, and connections flowed as freely as the music playing in his African Royalty salon. He has served some of the continent’s biggest stars Burna Boy, Skales, Otile Brown, Ali Kiba along with political leaders such as former Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho and the current governor, Abdulswamad Shariff. His salon transformed from a simple grooming space into an unexpected meeting point for culture, influence and opportunity. So when people…
National Housing Corporation Houses (L) along the Southern Bypass are accessible from Langata and Otiende. (R) Artistic impression of Purple Tower. (Photos: File, Standard, Courtesy) Nairobi’s skyline has long been defined by the steady rise of glass towers and high-density blocks stretching across Kilimani, Kileleshwa, and Upper Hill. But as the city grows upwards, a quieter counter-trend is taking shape on its edges, reshaping how urban living is imagined. Across the city, a new wave of low-rise residential development is emerging, signalling a shift towards modern suburban living at a time when vertical construction dominates much of Nairobi’s housing supply. New townhouse developments sits at the heart of…
As the festive season kicks in, daytime parties are becoming popular among revelers. Brunch parties are emerging as a dominant trend, pulling large crowds and even attracting corporate sponsors. With millions now circulating in the entertainment industry, it has become a make-or-break moment for club owners and event organisers. The competition is fierce, pushing players to think beyond the ordinary. New entertainment venues are not just extending their operating hours but also introducing new attractions to stand out. From celebrity appearances to high-profile collaborations such as the recent Premier League Trophy Tour organisers are pulling out all the stops to…
Former Nairobi Governor and flashy city businessman Mike Sonko has issued a heartfelt plea to Kenyan youth, urging them to shun alcoholism, which he warns has become a growing crisis claiming the lives of many young people. In a recent social media post, Sonko revealed that through his Sonko Rescue Team, they had already buried dozens of young victims who succumbed to alcohol-related complications. “It’s heartbreaking to see how many young people are turning to alcohol as a way to cope with the economic hardships in the country. Unfortunately, it’s killing them at an alarming rate,” he said. Sonko shared…
For a while, Kenya’s entertainment scene has been relatively quiet, save for the occasional lighthearted banter with East African neighbours, usually over football or lyrical prowess in hip-hop. But recently, fashion sparked an unexpected storm. During a radio interview, rapper Octopizzo took a swipe at a fellow artiste’s fashion sense. “There’s a certain rapper who clads in sweatpants from January to December and rocks them with old-fashioned Timberland boots,” Octopizzo said. His comments triggered a quick response. Khaligraph Jones, never one to miss an opportunity, countered by endorsing his own OG Omollo custom sweatpants, limited edition. Before the dust had…