This archive report was first published on 26 June 2020.
Kenyan gospel artist Willy Paul has announced plans to release his debut album, Songs of Solomon, a move that has generated significant excitement among fans. The album's release comes after years of Willy Paul's presence in the entertainment scene, defying the conventional path of new artists showcasing their talents through album releases.
According to industry trends, African artists like Willy Paul primarily generate income from live performances. This is largely due to the structured entertainment business, which has historically denied artists their rightful royalties and profits through corruption and theft.
As a result, artists have focused on maximizing their live performances, with many seasoned artists having only a handful of album releases. These releases are often targeted at gaining international recognition and a shot at prestigious awards.
Willy Paul's upcoming album, however, marks a significant departure from this norm. The album will be released under his own record label, allowing him to maintain ownership of the royalties and artistic control. This move is a significant step towards addressing the monetary and expressive concerns that often plague artists.
The tracklist for the album is already available, and fans are eagerly awaiting the official release date. With Songs of Solomon, Willy Paul is set to showcase his artistic range and versatility, cementing his position in the Kenyan music scene.
