In a dramatic last-minute move that has sent shockwaves through Kenya’s entertainment scene, the popular music collective Kodong Klan has pulled out of tonight’s high-profile “Asake & Gabzy Live in Nairobi” concert at Nyayo Stadium.
The group was slated to perform as a key supporting act for the Nigerian superstars on Saturday, December 20. However, mere hours before showtime, they dropped a bombshell statement on Instagram, announcing their withdrawal and exposing behind-the-scenes chaos.
The statement paints a picture of repeated broken promises and a final, unacceptable incident during the crucial soundcheck.
According to Kodong Klan, their team faced direct “interference from another performer’s team” while event organizers failed to step in and resolve the conflict.
“We will not be performing today,” the collective declared, revealing that “This follows a consistent pattern of disrespect and disregard for agreed-upon standards, culminating in unacceptable treatment of our artist and team during soundcheck this evening.”
The group further accused a fellow performer’s team of meddling and stated that the organizers did not step in to address the conflict.
Kodong Klan further lamented that key commitments that were agreed to before contracts were signed were repeatedly ignored or changed. “Despite multiple efforts on our part to adjust and resolve these issues in good faith, our concerns were not taken seriously,” the group added.
The message is a fierce defense of artistic integrity, framing the walkout as a necessary stand. In their words, “Respect for the art, the people behind it, and the work required to deliver excellence is non-negotiable for us. Performing under these conditions would signal that such treatment is acceptable, and it is not.”
The statement released mid-morning sparked outrage by this afternoon on social media platforms; some users demanded that the organisers either address the situation with urgency, or refund them their tickets.
Singer Bien-Aimé commended them for the move, saying, “Go where you’re celebrated, not tolerated.” Bien is part of the acclaimed Kenyan Afropop band Sauti Sol, which is hosting a concert of their own just kilometres away on the same night.
Organisers Respond
The organisers, in response, released a statement clarifying that they duly contracted the group to provide musical performance services for the event.
“We confirm that the group was paid in full, and that all contractual and logistical obligations on the part of Tukutane Entertainment were fully met in accordance with agreed terms and applicable professional standards,” the organisers’ statement read.
“The decision by Kodong Klan to withdraw from the event was made independently by the group, citing concerns relating to their experience with some of the other artists during sound check. While we respect their position, we wish to clearly state that Tukutane Entertainment bears no responsibility or liability for this withdrawal.”
Still, the incident raises immediate questions about the treatment of supporting local acts at major concerts and the professionalism of the event’s organization.
As thousands of ticket holders head to Nyayo Stadium tonight, the atmosphere is now charged not only with anticipation for Asake & Gabzy, but also with a heated conversation about dignity, contracts, and the value of Kenyan artistry on its own soil.
Asake Concert
The festive season’s major musical event, “Tukutane Presents Asake & Gabzy Live in Nairobi,” was set to headline Nigerian stars Asake and Gabzy at Nyayo Stadium.
An 18+ event with sponsorship from brands like Kenya Airways, Martell, and Coca-Cola, it was also highly anticipated for featuring the popular local collective, Kodong Klan, alongside the international acts.
Kodong Klan is a notable ensemble of leading Kenyan male artists. Its members are prominent figures in the industry, including Okello Max, Bensoul, Mordecai Dex, Charisma, Ywaya Tajiri, Coster Ojwang, and Onyach Pala.
By ViralTea