Items by KenyaChristian
Kenya Christian
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Video: Soul Boy (Trailer) + Launch
Posted: March 14, 2010, 5:22 pm by KenyaChristian
Soulboy Trailer from One Fine Day Films on Vimeo.
Kibera Launch + Behind the scenes video
Previously: Movie Seen! Soul Boy Review -
Video: 1% Event Nairobi Recap
Posted: March 14, 2010, 4:55 pm by KenyaChristian
This and the iHub Launch have been the cool "underground" events of the year so far in my opinion. Geeks are the new cool, where have you been? lol Geeks have always been cool imo, its just people have been slow to catchup!
1%CLUB is the online marketplace that connects people with smart ideas in developing countries with people, money and knowledge around the world.
We are talking about sustainable projects that stimulate the self-reliance of individuals anywhere in the world and improve their standard of living.
To achieve this, we need three things: a little bit of your knowledge, money or time. You choose how, when and how much you want to participate. The people that run the projects that you are involved in keep you informed on the progress. It is that simple.
Coders can move too!
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Video: Wernono Faimly - "Amen"
Posted: March 14, 2010, 4:50 pm by KenyaChristian
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Video: Soul Boy (Trailer)
Posted: March 14, 2010, 4:31 pm by KenyaChristian
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Video: K'Naan - "Wavin' Flag" (Celebration Mix)
Posted: March 14, 2010, 4:06 pm by KenyaChristian
K'NAAN "Waving Flag" -Celebration mix- Dir: NABIL from nabil elderkin on Vimeo.
This is the official anthem for the 2010 South Africa World Cup. *BIG SIGH* I wish I could go for this event! Life is soo fair, ain't it? What an amazing experience it will be, especially if you're African. -
Movie Seen! Soul Boy
Posted: March 11, 2010, 1:43 am by KenyaChristian
Soul Boy is a film by Ghanian-Kenyan director Hawa Essuman, shot in the famous Nairobi slum Kibera. This film by German production company One Fine Day Films and Goethe-Institut revolves around Abila (Samson Odhiambo), a fourteen year old boy growing up and experiencing life’s lessons in this poor environment. Kibera is a place that has just experienced post-election violence and Abila has to navigate his way through this environment, while at the same time just trying to be a normal teenager.
Abila wakes up on what seems like just another day to find that his father is bed-ridden with illness; his soul has been stolen he tells his teenage son. Troubled and worried as there is no one to run their kiosk, Abila sets off to find out how he can help his father. Through the help of his friend Ciku (Leila Dayan Opou) he goes to see a witch who gives him seven tasks to complete if he wants to see his father recover. The film then progresses from here with Abila having various encounters in this modern day Nairobi adventure.
Soul Boy immediately a present day tale, with the teenage protagonist encountering the various issues in the slums; including tribalism, violence, crime and superstition. Soul Boy lays the issue of tribalism on the table and shows how tribes are distrustful of each other especially after the 2007/08 post-election violence. We all know that young Kenyans are being tribalized by politicians and elders, but it is still troubling to watch it portrayed on screen. You feel very angry when you watch Abila (a Luo) trying to balance his friendship with his boys, while still hanging out with his girl-friend Ciku(a Kikuyu). It is sad that Kenyans have to make such choices in their everyday lives because of tribal myths and mistrust. Ciku in one scene asks Abila “why didn’t you want to be seen walking with me?” and it is heartbreaking.
The aspect of spirituality (occult if you will) and myths is also potrayed in a refreshingly non-judgmental way. Abila hears of a witch called Nyawawa (Krysteen Savane) and bravely goes to see her to see if she can help him. If you thought traditional superstitions are dead in modern-day city life then Soul Boy does away with that notion as it defly makes the idea of consulting a witch just another aspect of slum life. The scene where Abila meets the witch and she is giving him the tasks is quite original if only for the camera work and lighting.
Perhaps the theme of this movie that most hits you upside the head is that of poverty. Soul Boy has one the most vivid and troubling showing of the rich-poor divide that I have seen in a Kenyan made film so far. Abila, while following someone one day finds himself in a white-owned household (presumably settlers’ descendants) in the leafy suburb of Karen. I felt genuinely angry at the contrast between the slums of Kibera and the opulence of protected Karen life, and audibly sighed once or twice. While at this house he finds himself completing one of the tasks and this is the best scene of the film.
Soul Boy is a movie that was completed in six weeks, and was written by local writer Billy Kahora who does a great job with a first-class and engaging script. There are some lovely performances by all the actors, but a favourite is Abila’s girlfriend Ciku, who potrays a fiercely independent and intelligent teenage girl, not afraid to speak her mind . In one scene, she laments on how all the boys in the neighbourhood are idiots during an argument with Abila. Hawa Essuman clearly did a great job with these two main characters. You really believe that they are best friends who would do anything for each other, and this shows Hawa’s good casting choices. The camera work in this film is also top-notch and the beauty of Nairobi, which many of us may miss in our daily hustle is tenderly captured here. Soul Boy manages to create a touching tale of slum life in Kenya and how people still find hope, adventure, love, friendship and family amid the squalor.
A positive aspect of Soul Boy is that 80% of those involved with the film are Kenyans, but one still cannot ignore the fact that it is funded by a German company. It is a sad indictment of this country’s arts industry that we still have to rely on foreign funding to create our own stories. Maybe those involved in the Kenyan film-industry need to be more forceful and united in getting local funding and support for their projects. Soul Boy is a good film (it won audience award at Rotterdam Film Festival) but there is no reason this could not have been a 100% Kenyan-made film. All in all, Soul Boy a step in the right direction and announces the arrival of Hawa Essuman, a talented filmmaker who could become a force to be reckoned with in the Kenyan film industry.
"One of the best Kenyan films I have seen in a long time, maybe ever. Go see it, support Kenyan talent."
KC rating: 4 /5 Stars
(Soul Boy is now playing at Silverbird Prestige Plaza for a limited two week run. Also look out for the DVD.) -
Video: The Washington Projects - "Light Up The Dark"
Posted: March 10, 2010, 10:22 am by KenyaChristian
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Video: The Remnant - "Know This"
Posted: March 9, 2010, 4:03 pm by KenyaChristian
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May God bless The Woman
Posted: March 8, 2010, 3:14 pm by KenyaChristian
As a man I have to say I doubt there is any greater creation God blessed this earth with than a woman. In my context I have to especially praise my black women who continue to excel, grow, praise, care, nurture and love despite the odds being stacked against them for centuries. They have especially supported the black man who some people have tried their best to destroy. But if it wasn't for the black woman's support, I don't know if the black man would have survived. We may have never had a Barack Obama without a Michelle.
Special shout out to Ann Njogu who recently won the International Women of Courage Award(IWOC) for her tireless work on women's issues. Another shoutout to Mo'Nique for her Oscar win for best supporting actress in the modern-day classic movie Precious.
Ann Njogu
BONUS: May God Bless The Woman, a poem
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Soul Boy @ Silverbird
Posted: March 8, 2010, 11:25 am by KenyaChristian
SYNPOSIS
Someone has stolen his soul, mumbles the father as he sits huddled in a corner. Abila is shocked and confused but wants to help his father and goes in search of a suitable cure.Supported by his friend Shiku who is the same age as him, he learns that his father has gambled his soul away in the company of a spiritual woman.
The teenager doesn't want to believe it and sets about looking for the witch. When he finally discovers her in the darkest corner of the ghetto, she gives him seven challenging tasks to save his father's lost soul. Abila embarks on an adventurous journey which leads him right through the microcosm of his home town.
Will be showing at Silverbird Prestige Plaza. for 2 weeks beginning March 4th @ 7pm. Check Silverbird website for updates
Previously: Soul Boy (Inside Look) -
Jean-Michel Basquiat : The Radiant Child (Trailer)
Posted: March 6, 2010, 5:53 pm by KenyaChristian
Director Tamra Davis pays homage to her friend in this definitive documentary but also delves into Basquiat as an iconoclast. His dense, bebop-influenced neoexpressionist work emerged while minimalist, conceptual art was the fad; as a successful black artist, he was constantly confronted by racism and misconceptions. Much can be gleaned from insider interviews and archival footage, but it is Basquiat’s own words and work that powerfully convey the mystique and allure of both the artist and the man.
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Video: Why Did I Get Married Too? (Trailer)
Posted: March 5, 2010, 10:51 pm by KenyaChristian
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Tarica June - "Why I Write"
Posted: March 5, 2010, 3:18 pm by KenyaChristian
Hey folks, hope you've had a great week. Today I'm posting a song from female MC Tarica June. This is a track from her debut mixtape Moonlight Revolution. I'm also using this post to test the new flash format I'll be using to post up tracks(I tell you blogger can be a pain sometimes, but I'm sticking with her,lol:)
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iHub Launch today!
Posted: March 3, 2010, 6:00 pm by KenyaChristian
iHub – Nairobi’s Innovation Hub for the technology community – is here! It’s an open space for the technologists, investors, tech companies and hackers in the area. This space is a tech community facility with a focus on young entrepreneurs, web and mobile phone programmers and designers. It is part open community workspace (co-working), part vector for investors and VCs and part incubator.
Date: Wednesday, March 3rd, 2010Venue: 4th Flr, Bishop Magua Centre, Ngong Rd(opp Uchumi)Time: 5:30pm - 8:30pmEntry: Invite only (apply here to get your ticket, spaces limited)
The launch will also be streaming live on UStream--------------------------------------------------------UPDATE: Pictures of the iHub launch at Africa Knows & KenyanPoet
iHub Nairobi opens
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Video: Nneka interview with Causecast
Posted: March 2, 2010, 7:51 pm by KenyaChristian
Nneka discusses the oil situation in the Niger Delta and how it degrades the community in her homeland. Her involvement with Remember Ken Saro-Wiwa Movement raises awareness by speaking about the issues at her shows and on the radio. -
Video: 15 Questions Christian women need to ask a man before getting involved with him
Posted: March 2, 2010, 4:48 pm by KenyaChristian
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Video: Canton Jones - "My Year"
Posted: March 2, 2010, 4:46 pm by KenyaChristian
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Video: GRITS - "Fly Away"(Hope Edition)
Posted: March 2, 2010, 4:23 pm by KenyaChristian
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Video: Sho Baraka - "Oh Well"
Posted: March 2, 2010, 4:11 pm by KenyaChristian
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John Githongo @ Kuweni Serious! (Pt.2)
Posted: March 1, 2010, 11:58 am by KenyaChristian
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Video: Mavuno Worship Cairo Experience
Posted: February 27, 2010, 2:43 am by KenyaChristian
Mavuno Cairo Project from KWELI Mag on Vimeo.
Mavuno Worship Project attended the Cairo Festival in November 2009 -
Video Hits Package 1.1.9
Posted: February 26, 2010, 11:56 pm by KenyaChristian
Mos Def with his classic "Umi Says" from his 1998 album Black On Both Sides.
"I want black people to be free, to be free, to be free.."
Previously: VHP 1.1.8- The Scorpions -
Video: Gideon's Army - "Warn Dem"
Posted: February 26, 2010, 2:34 am by KenyaChristian
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Music Seen! Ledisi - Turn Me Loose
Posted: February 24, 2010, 1:51 am by KenyaChristian
Ledisi is an artist slowly on the rise. She seems to be a musician whose talent will force people to take notice sooner or later, and it seems the Grammy’s have taken notice before most of the public. Lost & Found was her 2007 release that sold over 200,000 copies and got two Grammy nods, and she wasted no time in releasing Turn me Loose which the Grammy family also gave two thumbs up(noms).
The intro "Runnin’" is a force of a song with Ledisi putting a lot of feeling into it, she’s talking about her struggle in just going through everyday life and not giving up, which a lot of us can identify with .The intro shoes the power Ledisi is capable of delivering vocally and emotionally. The songs eerily pitched sirens sound similar to a thriller movie and help evoke the feeling of a psychological and physical struggle. If you have any doubts about Ledisi’s talent by the end of the intro they should really be put to rest; peep the way she adlibs with “I don’t feel too good...” like she’s physically sick, brilliant. The next song “Everything Changes” has thematic similarities with the personal classic “Alright” from her previous album, and could almost be seen as a part two of the song, it is well produced track with some nice horns. On it she is frank about trying to discover self-love “there was a time I gave up on people/disappointment led me just to be alone/then one day I was told to just stand on my own/ and it’s so true."
“Higher Than This” is a song about feeling the love of The Most High and has some cool modern R&B production. Produced by legends Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis it is a song that wouldn’t be out of place on a Mary Mary album. Ledisi shines on “Alone” a well-written track and honest track about relationship abandonment and loneliness, anyone who has had and lost love can definitely relate to this. “Love Never Changes” has a smooth 70’s soul feel to it, and one wouldn’t be surprised if that great decade is the core of Ledisi’s musical influence.
“Knockin’” has a really a knocking groove and is another high point of an already good album. With hard-hitting snares, blues guitar and organ you can almost feel the joy Ledisi gets in singing these types of songs. Ledisi is talking about not letting negativity and evil get a foot into the door of her life (soul) “I hear you knockin’ but you can’t come in/ hear you knockin but you ain’t gon win..”, Ledisi is clearly versatile with her sound. If you thought she was only an “old-school” artist though you’re mistaken, peep “I Need Love” a jamming song with a banging beat that you could imagine Keyshia Cole singing.
The most attractive thing in my opinion about Ledisi is her openness and honesty. She is not afraid to sing of her weaknesses and vulnerabilities in her music. With today’s mainstream music so blatantly and disgustingly plastic it’s like a bucket of ice water to listen to realness on a soul track. Ledisi is also an artist in touch with her spirituality and femininity. She shows you don’t have to be raunchy to create great music as a secular female artist. Ledisi just seems like someone you would want to know because of her spirit of beating the odds, and there is nothing more fulfilling in life than overcoming.
‘Ledisi is a diamond in the rough in the modern Soul/R&B world that has been lacking well, soul. If you like the genre, do not sleep on Ledisi.”
::KC blog:: rating 4.5/5 stars
"Higher Than This"
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Video: Mr.T - "Bado Nimesimama"
Posted: February 23, 2010, 1:17 am by KenyaChristian
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Video: Daddy Owen - "Kupe De Calle"(Tobina)
Posted: February 23, 2010, 12:52 am by KenyaChristian
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Video: The Africans
Posted: February 23, 2010, 4:07 pm by KenyaChristian
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Video: Sauti Za Busara Festival (clips)
Posted: February 23, 2010, 4:01 pm by KenyaChristian
Here are a couple of clips from the recently held Sauti Za Busara music festival in Stone Town, Zanzibar.*sigh...wish I was there.
Friday evening during Busara: MORE FIRE from May van Gent on Vimeo.
Tandiswa performing at Busara: SOUL POWER!! from May van Gent on Vimeo.
Check out pictures here -
Video: "Soul Boy" (Inside look)
Posted: February 23, 2010, 3:40 pm by KenyaChristian
A film by Ghanaian-Kenyan Hawa Essuman
Abila (14) lives in one of the most miserable slums in Africa. His girlfriend Shiku belongs to a different tribe, as the result of which he is not really allowed to fraternise with her. And then one drunken night his father gambled away his own soul. With support from Tom Tykwer, the Kenyan film maker Hawa Essuman turned it into a sparkling film.
Read more here. Check out a review here -
Video: John Githongo @ Kuweni Serious!
Posted: February 23, 2010, 2:43 pm by KenyaChristian
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Video: Togetherness Supreme (Trailer)
Posted: February 23, 2010, 2:03 am by KenyaChristian
I would have preferred if the film wasn't biased to one party or the other(this appears pro-ODM).Either way it looks well shot and interesting, will update you on screenings if I spot any.
From the making of the short film KIBERA KID in 2005 through the current filming of the feature film TOGETHERNESS SUPREME, the people of Kibera, especially the youth, have been at the center of the entire process. Kiberans have worked with Hot Sun Foundation on the feature film project (originally titled the KIBERA KID feature film project) for three years. People of Kibera want to share their stories with the world to show a new, realistic, entertaining picture of urban Africa in a feature film - an historic first in the cinematic world.
Read more here. Check out the website here and here -
Video: Krystal ft.Verbal - "Whisper"
Posted: February 22, 2010, 1:18 am by KenyaChristian
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Video: Afya Kenya Medical Camp
Posted: February 22, 2010, 3:25 am by KenyaChristian
This is really inspiring and is the type of stuff I really hope to see more of and get involved with.I think these kinds of initiatives are what the future of Kenya is all about, not the current circuses and gossip talk thats dominating our minds and time.My advice..block out the noise, and keep your eyes focused on what's really important around you.This past weekend I was involved in some community service and it was really reaffirming to what I want to be a part of as a citizen of Kenya(and the world). The future is here, watch this space..
Afya Kenya Foundation is a registered charity trust organization based in Nairobi, Kenya that seeks to provide quality health care to the rural and urban poor through free community health outreach camps. It was set up by student doctors who saw the need for such an initiative in the course of their apprenticeship.
read more here. Visit the website here
Speaking of which Afya Kenya Foundation will be holding an Art For Afya fundraising gig on Wednesday February 24th, 2010. It will be held at Mwenda's, Utalii House(along Uhuru Highway) from 7:30pm-11:00pm. Entrance is Ksh 500 and Ksh 400 (for STA card holders) Contact: +254722118872
Bonus blog link: Someone Lied To You, Mwananchi - 3: Your Country Is NOT Going To The Dogs...!!!!! (Terms and conditions apply) by Njoki Ngumi -
Video: Michael Soi @ Kuweni Serious!
Posted: February 19, 2010, 6:25 am by KenyaChristian
“We Need To Get People Who Are Not This Greedy”
Michael Soi is a visual artist based in Kenya. He graduated from art school in 1996, and has been making visual commentary on Kenyan social and political trends. We sat down with him one rainy afternoon and discussed what he thinks Kenyans need to do in 2012.
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Video: Kanjii Mbugua - "Dream Again"
Posted: February 19, 2010, 5:44 am by KenyaChristian
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Video: J.Blessing & Billy Frank - "Nijaze"
Posted: February 15, 2010, 3:55 am by KenyaChristian
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Video: "We Are The Word (For Haiti)"
Posted: February 13, 2010, 1:00 pm by KenyaChristian
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My first eclipse...
Posted: February 13, 2010, 4:57 am by KenyaChristian
This was the best shot I got during the solar eclipse that occurred on 15th January. I took it with a Canon Digital Camera.I'd never viewed a solar eclipse before, so i was pretty excited about it. It was kinda weird in the morning, i was wondering why the sky was soo hazy and cloudy from real early. I'm like, has this eclipse started..nini? Well, didn't see much except grey skies until like sometime between 8 and 9 am when the sun suddenly burst through the clouds and you knew something weird was occurring. I viewed the eclipse through my camera screen(si, the harmful rays can't be reproduced digitally? hehe) Anyway, my eyes weren't damaged(I hope:) It was a wonderful experience, I even captured some of it on video camera. The weather was really cold during the eclipse, and then afterwards it was suddenly sunny and the clouds took their cue and floated off. A weird observation I made was that a couple of crows were flying around in circles screaming(crowing) and basically acting weird; I'm certain the heavenly event had something to do with their psychosis. Overall I'm glad I saw it at least once in my life, what was your experience like? -
annieSoul - "Mwanamuziki"
Posted: February 11, 2010, 3:08 pm by KenyaChristian
annieSoul a producer, singer and songwriter who released her debut album Mwanamuzuki late last year. She also got accepted to the Berklee Music College where she is currently studying.
Listen: annieSoul - "Mwanamuziki"
Bonus: "Under the Rug" -
Video: Eko Dydda - "Me & My House"
Posted: February 11, 2010, 3:59 am by KenyaChristian
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Mad Love Lounge: Valentine's "Pendo Chizi" Edition
Posted: February 10, 2010, 4:49 pm by KenyaChristian
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Just A Band - "Ha-He"
Posted: February 10, 2010, 4:37 pm by KenyaChristian
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DoMaJe - "Way Down In The Hole"
Posted: February 10, 2010, 3:37 am by KenyaChristian
This is my fav version of the theme song from Season 4 of The Wire which was the best season:) short but nice..
Listen: DoMaJe - "Way Down in the Hole"
Previously: The Best TV Series Ever? -
Video: Dela - "Ulivyo"
Posted: February 9, 2010, 5:33 am by KenyaChristian
This is the first video off of Dela's debut album Paukwa. Video by the one and only Jim Chuchu. p.s check out Dela's eyelashes..verrih gud
Previously: The Kenyan "Hype?" -
Maker Faire Africa 2010
Posted: February 6, 2010, 5:00 pm by KenyaChristian
The aim is to identify, spur and support local innovation. At the same time, Maker Faire Africa would seek to imbue creative types in science and technology with an appreciation of fabrication and by default manufacturing. The long-term interest here is to cultivate an endogenous manufacturing base that supplies innovative products in response to market needs.
Read more here. Visit the website
Date: August 6-7th 2010Venue: Sarakasi Dome, Ngara, Nairobi
Maker Faire Africa 2009: Ghana
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Video: Muthoni - "Mikono Kwenye Hewa"
Posted: February 4, 2010, 1:24 am by KenyaChristian
This is the first video off Muthoni's latest album The Human Condition, in stores now!
I like the way the video was shot in that it has a story and also some humour.It also has a message but is fun at the same time, plus Muthoni is a very talented lyricist. I'm hoping that with artists like Muthoni gaining exposure urban music with a message will get back the limelight because Kenyan radio kinda shunned akina these guys, and there's been a vacuum for a while now.So, keep the good tunes coming Muthoni, you've got a supporter here!
Previously: Muthoni interview with RNW -
Lauryn Hill - "Selah"
Posted: February 4, 2010, 8:48 pm by KenyaChristian
Here's a Lauryn Hill song that you may have not heard, it was from this album. Enjoy! Lauryn Hill, please return... Incidentally she has bee appearing on tour recently in some countries *fingers crossed*
Listen: Lauryn Hill - "Selah" -
Video Hits Package 1.1.8
Posted: February 3, 2010, 12:11 am by KenyaChristian
This is still one of my all time favourite songs. I've just always loved it since I was a kid. It's from Scorpions 1990 album Crazy World.
Previously: VHP 1.1.7 -
Gil Scott Heron - "On Coming From A Broken Home"
Posted: February 3, 2010, 2:47 am by KenyaChristian
Here's some new material from legendary spoken word artist Gil Scott-Heron. His latest album in 15 years I'm New Here out soon!
Listen: Gil Scott-Heron - "On Coming From A Broken Home" -
Muthoni Interview with Radio Netherlands
Posted: February 2, 2010, 9:21 pm by KenyaChristian
Bridges with Africa producer, Ikenna Azuike, interviewed Penya musicians Muthoni and Dela during a recent trip to Kenya. He also spoke to the record label behind the music, Dutch founded "Penya Africa".
Listen: Muthoni interview with Radio Netherlands -
Video: Cadet - "Realise"
Posted: February 1, 2010, 10:50 pm by KenyaChristian
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Astar - CTA(Cleaning The Airwaves) Free Album
Posted: February 1, 2010, 2:37 pm by KenyaChristian
1. Who Am I?2. Turn It Up!3. In The Name of Jesus(feat Kanjii)4. Interlude5.Nimechoka(feat.Chizi)6. Jibu Kilio (feat.Juliani)7. Close Your Eyes8. They Say9. Interlude10. Angel (feat.Kiki)11. The Light12. I Believe In You (feat.Pete Odera & Pastor Kyula)13. Jesus My Everything (feat.Hip Hope)14. I Don't Anymore (feat.Kanjii & Blackman)15. Destiny (feat.Neema)16. Time17.Bonus: CTA(Remix) feat.Juliani & Kanjii 18. Bonus: Songa feat.Kerah 19. Bonus: Rap Game feat.Pam“Bringing about change requires one to be radical. Being radical has a price… but it get’s the job done! I don’t want my kids growing up in an immoral society so i need to do something about the airwaves NOW!! To all my friends/ fans… I hereby give you the permission to burn my music and pass it around to anyone and everyone you can. Let the snowball effect begin…” - Astar
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Video: Manufacturing Consent: Noam Chomsky and the Media
Posted: January 29, 2010, 3:48 pm by KenyaChristian
This is a 1992 film based on a book of the same name by Noam Chomsky & Edward Herman(which I'm currently reading). It is nearly 3 hours long,so get a comfortable seat.. but it's worth it. Enjoy your weekend!
Peter Wintonick and Mark Achbar made this penetrating documentary about the career and views of linguist and media critic Noam Chomsky. While the man is the subject of the movie, the filmmakers wisely and carefully choose not to make Chomsky more important than his insights into the way print and electronic journalism tacitly and often willingly further the agendas of the powerful. We learn a lot about Chomsky's formative experiences as a child, student, academic, activist, and politician (he has campaigned for office), but we learn just as much about the media institutions that deny him access today, from ABC to PBS. The centerpiece of the film, arguably, is a long examination into the history of the New York Times' coverage of Indonesia's atrocity-ridden occupation of East Timor, reportage that (as Chomsky shows us) was absolutely in lock step with the government's unwillingness to criticize an ally. --Tom Keogh
Previously: Book Seen! Understanding Power by Noam Chomsky -
Video: Mr.Vee - "Busy"
Posted: January 29, 2010, 12:37 pm by KenyaChristian
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Kenya's growing literary scene..
Posted: January 28, 2010, 8:25 pm by KenyaChristian
Whatever opinions you have one way or another about Kwani? Storymoja and the like, (and trust me I do have my opinions on them which I may post one day) you can't deny that they are at the forefront of an Kenyan-urban literary revival.and that is a good thing, it is obvious that Kenyans are a relatively politically aware and opinionated lot and it was just that we needed the freedom to express ourselves which the KANU regime totally regimented. So, I'm not really surprised by the thriving literary scene which continues to grow by leaps and bounds. I went for this literary festival last year at Impala Grounds called the Storymoja Hay Festival and I was left feeling encouraged and hopeful about what the future holds for literature in Kenya. It has only just begun, I believe. Anyway check out this article from the Christian Science Monitor about this burgeoning scene..
It might be just another club night in party-hearty Nairobi. In a little, second-floor downtown bar bathed in red lights and decorated with funky paintings, crunk music thumps from a high-quality sound system. Couples at tables sip drinks.
But then, after a few measures, the music stops, and a poet takes the stage. Wearing dreadlocks and an orange scarf tied around his head, Kennet B begins a spoken-word tirade against environmental degradation and corruption.
“Something revolutionary is going to happen tonight,” he announces. The crowd shouts its approval.
It’s the first Tuesday of the month, which means that the Kwani? Trust (the question mark is part of its name), a Kenyan literary collective and nonprofit publishing house, has sponsored open mic night at Clubb Sound. The event brings together Nairobi’s intelligentsia and literary dabblers.
Read more here
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Video: Haimie Armide - "Sema"
Posted: January 28, 2010, 12:32 pm by KenyaChristian
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Sade - "Skin"
Posted: January 28, 2010, 11:35 am by KenyaChristian
Here's some new music from Sade's upcoming album Soldier of Love, which I'm now highly anticipating after hearing the first single. Good music is hard to find these days, so this is a breath of fresh air...
Listen: Sade - "Skin"
Previously: Soldier of Love video
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Liz Ogumbo - "Maro Pa More"
Posted: January 27, 2010, 5:24 pm by KenyaChristian
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Video: Who is Nneka?
Posted: January 27, 2010, 3:33 pm by KenyaChristian
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Video: Bebe Cool - "Kanyimbe"
Posted: January 27, 2010, 3:18 pm by KenyaChristian
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Video: Pumzi (trailer)
Posted: January 27, 2010, 3:15 am by KenyaChristian
A film by Wanuri Kahiu
Check out an interview Wanuri did with Wired News
Previously: Pumzi: Does Kenya's first sci-film hold up? -
Video: Pumzi (trailer)
Posted: January 27, 2010, 2:05 am by KenyaChristian
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Video: Wazee Wetu - "Yesu Kristo (Suduu)"
Posted: January 26, 2010, 7:32 pm by KenyaChristian
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Maximum Melodies - "Medley 3"
Posted: January 26, 2010, 7:19 pm by KenyaChristian
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Video: Maximum Melodies - "Medley 2"
Posted: January 26, 2010, 7:18 pm by KenyaChristian
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Video: Tete Runinga - "Nimempata Rafiki"
Posted: January 26, 2010, 7:13 pm by KenyaChristian
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Video: Jimmie Gait - "Sonko"
Posted: January 26, 2010, 6:48 pm by KenyaChristian
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Video: Cubanotics ft.Kera - "Yesu Pekee"
Posted: January 26, 2010, 6:26 pm by KenyaChristian
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Video: B.M.F & H.O.Js - "Njoo"
Posted: January 26, 2010, 6:22 pm by KenyaChristian
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Video: Rufftone - "Chant A Prayer"
Posted: January 26, 2010, 6:08 pm by KenyaChristian
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Video: Sally - "Shukrani"
Posted: January 26, 2010, 5:58 pm by KenyaChristian
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Video: Chit Chat - "I La La Like It"
Posted: January 26, 2010, 5:36 pm by KenyaChristian
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Help for Haiti @ Tribe
Posted: January 22, 2010, 4:29 pm by KenyaChristian
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Video: M.O.G - "Someday"
Posted: January 22, 2010, 4:19 pm by KenyaChristian
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Nas & Damian Marley - "Strong Will Continue"
Posted: January 22, 2010, 4:08 pm by KenyaChristian
From their upcoming collaborative album Distant Relatives
Nas & Damian Marley - "Strong Will Continue"
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Book Seen! Understanding Power by Noam Chomsky
Posted: January 20, 2010, 5:21 pm by KenyaChristian
Here’s a shocker for you. I had never heard of Noam Chomsky until about three years ago; I hope that does not say something about my ignorance. But I happen to suspect the reason I had never heard of him is because I was never supposed to; it was designed that way. That I only heard of him because my father had travelled to the U.S while I was there and wanted to meet him says a lot. Though my dad never did get to meet him, it did pique my interest in who exactly this person is.
Officially, Noam Chomsky is a Professor of Linguistics and Philosophy at MIT, Boston who was born and grew up around the time of the Great Depression. But “on the side” he is a brilliant political activist and thinker. He is what most people would call a leftist radical or as he might term himself, an anarchist.
Noam Chomsky as I have come to learn is widely known and gets to speak around the world. But this is where it gets paradoxical; if Chomsky is in high demand as a speaker and is known why had I never heard about him until three years ago? Well first of all he will only be known to you if you are looking in that direction, i.e. you are a politically aware person who is questioning the state of the world. But most importantly it is by design that he is “invisible,” i.e. his ideas are so challenging and critical of global power structures that those in power make sure people like him are never known by the wider public. Noam Chomsky levels his criticism largely at U.S power and its destructive aspects and he says he does this because he would consider it hypocritical to critisize other countries while ignoring his own (see:Matthew 7:3-5)
Understanding Power is a collection of discussions he held between 1989 and 1999 in different U.S. cities. The book mainly deals with the post Cold War Era. He speaks about a wide range of topics from media to globalization, to Middle East & Latin America to the military-industrial complex and many other topics. He seeks through this book to help the reader become a critical thinker when understanding issues relating to power as exercised in its various forms.
It is in the above mentioned aspect where I find Noam Chomsky absolutely fascinating and compelling. The depth and breadth of Chomsky’s knowledge and his understanding of a vast array of important issues is unlike anything I’ve come across before. He can go from talking about peace activists in Latin America, to environmental destruction in Haiti, to how sports is used to control the masses; all from his head.This is a man who obviously spends his time doing tonnes of research. And he is never glib about anything, Noam Chomsky is extremely meticulous about relying on facts and citing his sources, and he has a website just dedicated to his reams of footnotes and sources. His ability to uncover how power deceives us in very many and unsuspecting ways is also fascinating, and causes you to question the whole power structure as is currently set-up.
While reading this book I was pretty surprised by some of the things I discovered. For example most people would understandably be of the opinion that former U.S President John F. Kennedy was this handsome, progressive and great American president who died a martyr. However did you know that Kennedy ordered one of the most horrendous, terroristic, not to mention illegal military operations in Cuba, right after the failed Bay of Pigs invasion? Also that America planned on invading Cuba in 1962 even before the Cuban Missile Crisis? Further in 1971 Anwar Sadat offered a peace settlement to Israel which Israel & U.S turned down? These and more amazing facts which are largely covered up by the powers that control world thought and opinion (mainly Western media) can be found in this book.
Noam Chomsky is brilliant in the way he shows how the United States has controlled much of the world through brutal aggression,propaganda, oppression and yes terrorism. After reading this book, though I had already suspected some of this stuff to be true, Chomsky really revealed just how sinister and deep American evil can get. What really disturbed me was just how enslaved the world is in terms of trying to chart its own course away from American influence (you’ll probably get bombed or assassinated for it.) Also Noam Chomsky though Jewish is not afraid of vigorously criticizing Israel’s brutal policies in the Middle East (something he’s received a lot of criticism for.)
If you are one who is predisposed to looking at America as a benevolent, noble and democratic nation this book might be a bit much too handle; but I believe for those who are not afraid to think critically and question what their assumptions about the use of global power, then I highly recommend this book.
“One of the most important books I’ve ever read. It changed the way I look at global power and its exercise. Chomsky is a genius”
(Noam Chomsky has authored lots of other books. Take your pick.)
[Edited on 22/01/10] -
Video: Have You Heard From Johannesburg?
Posted: January 20, 2010, 4:47 pm by KenyaChristian
Have You Heard From Johannesburg? is six documentary stories, produced and directed by Connie Field, chronicling the history of the global anti-apartheid movement that took on South Africa’s entrenched apartheid regime and its international supporters who considered South Africa an ally in the Cold War.
Read more here
Watch the full film in 6 parts here
Previously: RIP Dennis Brutus -
Video: Ngashville - "Fanana Naye"
Posted: January 20, 2010, 4:36 pm by KenyaChristian
featuring Danco & Baa Mdogo
I'm liking this kapungala sound.. who knows it just might become an established music genre.
Listen: Ngashville - "Fanana Naye" -
Lauryn Hill - "Adam Lives In Theory"
Posted: January 20, 2010, 4:15 pm by KenyaChristian
This was always one my favourite songs from her 2002 album MTV Unplugged. 2.0
Listen: Lauryn Hill - "Adam Lives in Theory"
Previously: I Miss Her Education! -
Video: Mini Doctrine on Haiti
Posted: January 20, 2010, 3:08 pm by KenyaChristian
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Penya Africa presents LOVE IS...
Posted: January 20, 2010, 2:33 pm by KenyaChristian
Date: February, 13th 2010
LOVE IS .... presents an all STAR lineup, Songstress Dela, Just a Band, Sauti sol, Muthoni the Drummer queen and Stan on one platform.
On the eve of Valentines day, PENYA AFRICA presents LOVE IS....An all rounded concert to celebrate our love for one another,for our country,our music and our diversity.
Time: 6.00 pm
Venue: National Museum, Museum Hill, Nairobi
Price: Ksh 400(advance) 500(at the gate) -
Slideluck Potshow @ Tribe
Posted: January 14, 2010, 5:58 pm by KenyaChristian
Slideluck Potshow is a New York City-based, non-profit arts organization that provides an opportunity for artists and arts-appreciators to gather around food, friends, and artwork for an unforgettable night. This event, which began in a Seattle backyard eight years ago and regularly draws crowds of a thousand people in NYC, is coming to Kenya!
Date: Saturday, January 16, 2010
The evening begins with a couple hours of mingling and dining on the home-cooked delights of those who attend, and then the lights are dimmed, the crowd is hushed, and a spectacular slideshow commences. Please join us by the pool at Tribe on Saturday, January 16th, for an engaging, unique, and fun evening.
The Nairobi event will feature Kenyan and African photographers and artists along with a handful of international artists. Presenters range from the very accomplished to the up and coming, and everyone has a maximum of 5 minutes.
Time: 7pm Potluck, 9pm Slideshow (Afterparty to follow)
Venue: Poolside, Tribe Hotel, Village Market, Nairobi
Price: Bring a dish to share or a Sh500 donation
Tel: (020)720.0000
For more info visit: here and here -
Video: Sade - "Soldier of Love"
Posted: January 14, 2010, 4:26 pm by KenyaChristian
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Please help Haiti in any way you can..
Posted: January 14, 2010, 3:00 pm by KenyaChristian
Here are some places donations can be sent through The ICRC, World Vision Yele and Salvation Army
Follow events taking place in Haiti concerning the earthquake through Ushahidi
Haiti is a country that has really suffered alot through the decades, please pray for Haiti and do whatever you can to assist, even in a small way. -
Video: Juliani feat. Jaya - "Rauka"
Posted: January 14, 2010, 2:35 pm by KenyaChristian
Juliani addresses the issue of climate change and talks about the effects it will have on the future generation. Juliani and DJ Vic were also part of the Climate World Summit that happened in Dec 2009. They took their message to The Opera House, performed on a Cruise and finally presented at... Copenhagen petitions collected from Juliani's Kenya Uni Tour.
See: Juliani Copenhagen Performance
Previously: Jaya - "Msamaha" -
Fela! on Broadway - "Upside Down"
Posted: January 12, 2010, 7:41 pm by KenyaChristian
"People must learn their..African name/people must find their..African style/people must know..Africans pray/for a new Africa I can see..."
Listen: Fela! - "Upside Down"
Previously: Fela on Broadway video
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DJ Dona Gospel Mix
Posted: January 12, 2010, 7:27 pm by KenyaChristian
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Africa Know's: Photojournalism
Posted: January 12, 2010, 7:15 pm by KenyaChristian
Our Purpose: To tell a different story about Africa. The Re-branding of Africa.
Read more here and check out the website here
The story everyone knows and yet no one knows. Africa Knows is about the challenges, triumphs, dreams and nightmares of being an African in a 21st century city that is straddling several revolutions at the same time – the technological revolution, the agricultural revolution, a democratic resurgence and a post-colonial identity crisis complicated by old ethnic tensions.
Africa Knows about its own land and its own people more than any international media agency can ever know. Africa tells its own story to those who want to listen with their hearts and their heads. This is the beginning of a new identity, starting with Kenya and for Africa as a whole.
Previously: 24 Nairobi -
Video: The Villagers Band - "Kenchic"
Posted: January 11, 2010, 5:55 pm by KenyaChristian
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Video: Fela! On Broadway
Posted: January 9, 2010, 6:47 pm by KenyaChristian
So far the Fela! Musical currently playing on New York's Broadway has been getting rave reviews! Some are saying its breathing new life into Broadway which had become boring. They so need to do an African tour...*sigh
Revolution:
Listen: Fela! On Broadway - "Everything Scatter" -
Video: Webi ft.Holy Dave - "Free"
Posted: January 9, 2010, 6:17 pm by KenyaChristian
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Video: Njoki Ngumi on Kuweni Serious!
Posted: January 9, 2010, 5:38 pm by KenyaChristian
“Blood Is Not Going To Clean Bloodstains”
Njoki Ngumi who wrote “Someone Lied to you, Mwananchi” explains why she doesn’t like to read newspapers, and wonders what will happen to us all in 2012.
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Nneka - "God of Mercy"
Posted: January 8, 2010, 4:32 pm by KenyaChristian
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Video: Jua Kali: Harsh Sun (Final Scenes)
Posted: January 8, 2010, 4:02 pm by KenyaChristian
A film by Amie Williams starring Edi Gathegi and Idris Elba
02-JUA KALI FINAL SCENES from Brian Olson on Vimeo. -
RIP Dennis Brutus (1924-2009)
Posted: January 8, 2010, 3:27 pm by KenyaChristian
I admit, I wasnt really aware of Dennis Brutus' work, but I'm fascinated the more I learn. Dennis Brutus was a South African poet and activist against the Apartheid Government of South Africa in the 1960s and fought for social justice throughout his life. Read more about him here
Here is one of his poems. Purchase a collection of his works here
THEIR BEHAVIOUR
(by Dennis Brutus)
Their guilt
is not so very different from ours:
—who has not joyed in the arbitrary exercise of
power
or grasped for himself what might have been
another’s
and who has not used superior force in the
moment when he could,
(and who of us has not been tempted to these
things?)—
so, in their guilt,
the bare ferocity of teeth,
chest-thumping challenge and defiance,
the deafening clamor of their prayers
to a deity made in the image of their prejudice
which drowns the voice of conscience,
is mirrored our predicament
but on a social, massive, organized scale
which magnifies enormously
as the private dehabille of love
becomes obscene in orgies.
© Dennis Brutus
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Sauti Za Busara Music Festival
Posted: January 5, 2010, 11:30 pm by KenyaChristian
The Sauti za Busara music festival, Zanzibar features a rich variety of African music from the region with more than four hundred musicians participating over four days in historic Stone Town supplemented with fringe events around town and across the island including a festival street parade and finalé beach party.
Date: 11th - 16th February 2010
Venue: Stone Town, Zanzibar (map)
Time: Late afternoon till the early hours
Price: Free to East African Residents before 5pm (click here for ticket info)
2009 Festival recap
For more information click here and here -
Video: Nneka - "Walking"
Posted: January 5, 2010, 5:01 pm by KenyaChristian
What can I say, I just realized last year she's now my favourite artist. I don't know, it's like there's a type of artist I've been looking for, for years and I just hadn't found him/her until now.There's just no one (since Lauryn Hill) who was really inspiring me. So if I post alot of Nneka stuff, please bear with me...lol
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Video: Nneka feat.Wesley Williams - "Kangpe"
Posted: January 5, 2010, 3:54 pm by KenyaChristian
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Video: Michael Jackson - "This Is It"
Posted: January 1, 2010, 3:03 pm by KenyaChristian
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Merry Christmas to you all!
Posted: December 23, 2009, 7:29 pm by KenyaChristian
It hasn't been a perfect year for me, with ups, and even more downs. But hey, I'm still here...standing(actually I'm sitting right now typing.) I've learnt ALOT though this year and that's the silver lining in this cloud. this blog has gotten even better(I believe) and 2010 is going to bring even greater things God willing. So much has happened this year that i can't even begin to list them. So, I wont say much this time, just Merry Christmas to everyone who visits this blog and a Joyous New Year with all God's blessings! See you on the other side...
My favourite artist of the year, Nneka.
Bonus: Nneka - "The Uncomfortable Truth"
Blah blah blah
Fish cakes
Alas a fish cake.
Yet more fish cakes
Guess what ... yeah ... fish cakes.
The end of the fish cakes
