The Standard Group Plc is a multi-media organization with investments in media platforms spanning newspaper print
operations, television, radio broadcasting, digital and online services. The Standard Group is recognized as a
leading multi-media house in Kenya with a key influence in matters of national and international interest.
Tell us, who are The Twin Tribe?
The Twin Tribe is a vibrant DJ duo composed of DJ Tichie and Phybyola, specialising in genres like house, Amapiano, electronic, and local music. We’re passionate about creating unforgettable experiences for our audience, blending Tichie’s DJ skills with Phybyola’s dance background. Together, we aim to ignite the crowd and leave lasting memories.
How did you join the entertainment industry?
Our journey into the entertainment industry began at festivals, where we discovered the power of music and dance to connect with people. Attending these events sparked our desire to create our own unique experiences on stage. We realised that we could turn our shared passion into a vibrant career, despite the challenges that lay ahead in the game.
How did it start?
It all started when we attended music festivals, where DJ Tichie would spin tracks while Phybyola danced energetically to the vibes, capturing the attention of those around us. The infectious energy of the moments inspired us to collaborate as a duo, combining our talents to elevate the experience for our audience. From that spark, The Twin Tribe was born.
It is really hard to see a solid girl squad or duo like yourselves; what is the problem?
The entertainment industry has often favoured male acts, creating challenges for female duos like ours. We’re here to break that mold and show that women can also dominate the scene. By sharing our journey, we hope to inspire more female artists to step into the spotlight.
What are some of the challenges you faced when joining showbiz?
When we first entered the industry, we faced hurdles like establishing our brand in a heavily competitive market and overcoming stereotypes about female DJs. Additionally, balancing personal lives with the demands of showbiz tested our resilience. Yet, each challenge fueled our determination to succeed and carve out our own space.
Looking back, what would be your advice to your 18-year-old selves?
If we could talk to our 18-year-old selves, we’d say, embrace your passion unapologetically and take every opportunity that comes your way. Build a strong network of supporters early on, as relationships in this industry are invaluable. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to chase your dreams, even when the path seems daunting.
What are some of the most difficult challenges you’ve faced?
Some of the toughest challenges have included navigating industry politics and managing expectations while staying true to our creative vision. The pressure to conform to trends can be overwhelming, but we’ve learned to prioritise our artistic integrity. These experiences have only strengthened our bond and commitment to our craft.
How do you escape that?
To escape the pressures of the industry, we focus on self-care and lean on each other for support. We take time to enjoy the music we love, dance freely, and remind ourselves of our passion. Creating joyful moments outside of work helps us recharge and stay grounded.
What are your most memorable moments?
Our most memorable moments include our first major festival gig, where we felt the crowd’s energy pulse through us. Connecting with fans who share our love for music has been incredibly fulfilling, and we cherish every opportunity to create magic on stage. Those shared experiences are what fuel our passion and drive us forward.
What do you think is the state of the showbiz scene both locally and across Africa?
The showbiz scene is thriving, with an explosion of talent and a growing appreciation for diverse sounds across Africa. We’re witnessing a shift where local genres are gaining international recognition, paving the way for more artists to emerge. It’s an exciting time, and we’re proud to be part of this vibrant landscape.
Who would you say has been your strongest support system?
Our strongest support system is each other, along with our families and the incredible community we’ve built through our music journey. The friendships and collaborations we’ve formed have been invaluable, providing encouragement and inspiration along the way. Together, we uplift one another and celebrate each success.
Your male colleagues are known to receive a lot of affection from the female gender; is it the same for you?
While we appreciate the love and support from fans of all genders, we focus on our music and the experiences we create rather than personal attention. Our priority is to connect with our audience through our performances and let the music speak for itself. We’re all about creating a welcoming atmosphere for everyone.
Gifts, drinks, offers, and advances from flamboyant revellers are common; how do you make sure you don’t offend a potential fan by saying no?
We handle such situations with respect and clarity, setting firm boundaries while appreciating the support. It’s important to maintain professionalism, and we communicate our gratitude while steering clear of any personal advances. We want fans to feel valued while keeping our focus on the music
join