This archive report was first published on 1 November 2019.
On November 1, 2019, Kenya's first rock music awards, Heavy & The Beast, took place at Rue 104 Lounge and Restaurant in the Central Business District.
The event recognized nominated artistes, bands, and even radio presenters for their work and impact on the rock scene in Kenya.
Phyline Jean served as the MC, and the crowd was entertained by various artistes, including Murfy's Flaw, Kanyeki, Straight Line Connection, Last Year's Tragedy, and DJ Gurlfriend.
Heavy and the Beast is the only online rock magazine in East and Central Africa that focuses on Kenyan rock music. It was inspired by Daily Nation's Zuqka column, which was written by Rish, the late Sam Kiranga, and Issa Khalid.
The magazine started as a Tumblr blog passion project of two local rock fans who wanted to create awareness about the local rock music scene. It has since grown to include reviews and interviews of local artistes.
Heavy and the Beast has partnered with other African rock music sites, such as Audioinferno and Metal4africa, to focus on topics related to Kenyan rock music.
The winners of the night included:
- Best Female Artist: Rish
- Best Male Artist: Sam Warui from Rash Band
- Best Rock Song: Nitachange by Rash feat Ruff
- Best Metal Song: Mammoth by Last Year's Tragedy
- Best Live Performance: Murfy's Flaw
- Best Music Video: Cheshire Grin by Powerslide
- Best Radio Presenter: Nick Ndeda
- Best African Act: Vale of Amonition from Uganda
- Best International Act: Stick To Your Guns from USA
- Heavy and the Beast Award: Mark Mwanyigah, DJ Edygrim, and George Atsula
