After giving Kenyans the hit song Anguka Nayo, which took the nation by storm, Arbantone artistes are experiencing a sweet and sour moment following their Mashujaa Day performance in Kwale.
The song, which became the anthem for the recent demonstrations that rocked the country, went viral, significantly boosting the artistes' popularity. However, their Mashujaa Day performance has sparked controversy, with some Kenyans threatening to "cancel" them, accusing them of being "sellouts."
Nevertheless, a section of the public has come to the artistes' defence, arguing that they were simply earning a living.
“The regime chose to mock the movement today by having Wadagliz perform Anguka Nayo in Matuga. Kenyans supported the song during the rejection of the finance bill. Alafu, wakenya si tuange kusupport wasanii wenye pia wanasimama na nyinyi! No?” asked poet and activist Willie Oeba.
Oeba, who has been at the forefront of demonstrations and civic education in matatus, also cautioned the artistes. While acknowledging that they may need mentorship, he urged the duo to consider the broader implications.
“Artists need guidance from people who have walked this path. We are not cancelling anyone, but life is not always about the ‘bag,’ as you often call it. Watching the MPs and the executive dance to Anguka Nayo was mockery on a whole new level. It’s not about Wadagliz but what the song represented during the protests!” he added.
Rookie politician and activist Kasmuel McOure also shared his thoughts, stating that Kenyans should ease up on the artistes.
“Before you pretend to cancel Wadagliz, cancel the oppressive politicians, the lawyers who defend them, the doctors who treat them, the engineers who work for the government, the architects who draw their plans, the teachers who teach their children, etc. Your disdain for artists in this country is so deep-rooted that you don’t even notice it!” he stated.