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The biggest Valentine's weekend show went down in Kisumu city where Diamond performed before hundreds of fans. And while ugly scenes were witnessed at the venue with police dispersing rowdy youth, Diamond did not disappoint. For three straight hours, he thrilled fans and even declared that he is single and ready to mingle, writes MAUREEN ODIWUOR
The big buzz about Diamond and Zari love affair took a break when the Tanzanian pop star got to Kisumu last weekend. The show was totally sold out as hundreds came out to show their love for him.
“Mi nataka mwanadada mmoja wa Kisumu. Msiogope. Niko single. Sahau maneno ya watu (I want one girl from Kisumu. Don’t be afraid. I am single.
Forget what people may say,” he said, a remark that could be translated to mean that he is not committed to any woman – including the Ugandan socialite Zari whom he has been dating for the last two years.
“Nawapenda watu wa Kisumu kwa sababu hamubagui watu. Mnao upendo (I love Kisumu people because they do not discriminate. You exude your love,” Diamond wooed during the show that lasted until the early morning hours.
The concert at Simba, the Valentine’s event in Kenya that had the king of Bongo, at one point turned into a battle field as police engaged hundreds of young people in running battles. The young crowd had tried to force their way into the venue as some did not have the Sh1,000 entry fee.
They tried to break the main gate, forcing the organisers to call in police who dispersed them with teargas. The show had to be put on hold for over an hour. Diamond waited backstage under heavy security.
A number of people were robbed as thieves took advantage of the confusion.
The showdown started after a girl who was queuing to get into the grounds complained that her phone had been stolen. Hundreds of rowdy college students were causing havoc behind her, stealing everything they could from the helpless fans.
The alleged thief was pinned down and a battle ensued. But it all got ugly after a police officer was hit with a stone.
This sparked the anger of his colleagues who started throwing teargas canisters into the crowd that had milled at the entrance of Simba club, the popular Kisumu spot that had taken the attention of politicians, corporate bosses and top Kenyan celebrities.
“What is wrong with me coming with 20 girls. I have invested Sh6 million in this event,” a man shouted as his convoy waited.
“No. We are not aware. We are not allowing you in. Call the boss,” a bouncer warned. One of his female dates raged, saying she had contributed Sh600,000 to the project.
Her 20 friends waited on. After peace returned, the show kicked off with thrilling performances by local artistes and top Kenyan stars. MCs Jalang’o, Pierra and Fred Omondi were in the driving seat.
Diamond, the show stopper of the night did not disappoint.
He rocked the crowd with his popular hits among them Kigoma and the new remix with AY Zigo. Together with his team, the Tanzanian gave it his all, singing his heart out as his dancers complimented him exuding well-choreographed moves that left Pulsers wildly shouting for more.
