This archive report was first published on 27 June 2020.
The Good ¶
Health CS Mutahi Kagwe has brought some laughter and cheekiness to a very gloomy period with his quotable quotes and stare, which have become rich fodder for memes.
Kenyan music group Sauti Sol has been making bold moves, signing a deal with Universal Music Africa and releasing a hot jam with a hotter video, 'Suzanna', in February.
Live music has also played a significant role in entertaining people stuck at home during the lockdown, with many artistes and deejays streaming their performances via electronic gadgets.
Several albums have been released, including Willy Paul's upcoming 'Songs of Solomon', Otile Brown's 'Just In Love', and Sauti Sol's 'Midnight Train', which have been well-received by fans.
The Bad ¶
Leading media houses have cut salaries or laid-off workers due to the effects of the corona pandemic, with some staff being sent home via text message.
The entertainment industry has also been affected, with artistes, deejays, MCs, and hypemen relegated to Instagram posts and only a few getting sponsorships to do live gigs.
Bars, Hotels and Liquor Traders Association of Kenya Chairman Simon Mwangi has stated that the 54,000 members have lost Sh1 billion in the last three months.
The Ugly ¶
Controversial gengetone group Ethic has been in the news for their infamy, releasing a song that led to another apology and the group promising to do better.
Kenyan author and social commentator Ken Walibora died in early April, and gospel artiste Papa Dennis also passed away under mysterious circumstances.
Several other notable figures in the entertainment industry have also passed away, including Twist veteran John Nzenze, benga music legend Jimmy Wayuni, and female rapper Razz Msupa.
