Sauti Sol’s Bien Aime Baraza has opted out of the ongoing debate on whether Kenya has produced international artists. The discussion was ignited by Otile Brown’s assertion that there are currently no East African acts with international status.
While Otile’s statement sparked controversy and divided opinions, with many pointing to Sauti Sol’s success as evidence to the contrary, Bien has chosen to remain neutral.
Read also; Hassan Joho narrates his wins despite being mocked for scoring a D- in KCSE
Bien responds
The singer-songwriter emphasized his primary focus on creating music that brings him joy and fulfillment, rather than chasing international recognition.
“I really don’t care if I go international or not,” Bien stated, adding that he is more invested in expressing himself through music than achieving global stardom.
Bien further explained that Otile’s move to tease him was a clout chasing stunt to push for his upcoming project.
”Wacha aongee. I hope anataka kuachilia ngoma. Unajua Otile anapenda kiki. Atuonyeshe ujuzi. Otile hafai kuwa anaongea. Anaongea kama nani? Otile si ametoa juzi album mzima na haikuenda mahali. Hakuna ngoma ata moja ime trend.”
Despite their beef, Bien maintained that he listens to Otil’s music even though he doesn’t reciprocate the love at him.
”Naskizanga Otile. I’m his fan lakini hanipendi,” he stated.
Over the years, Otile hasn’t been in the limelight for picking up a beef with an artist. But it’s in black and white that he’s not letting this one slide.
Listen to Bien’s full interview below;