By Matilda Nzioki
Pulse: Before you left Kenya six years ago your music was doing well locally. Why did you make the decision to leave for the States?
Bamboo: Well I left for the States to not only further my education (in music) but also to work in the U.S. music industry with some of the best producers and artists in the world, network and learn how the industry works inside and outside. I grew up in the U.S. until I was 16 years when I first came back to Kenya. I left Kenya only so that I could help lift the standard of music and entertainment in Africa but I have not forgotten my roots and I promise my fans that God willing, I will place Kenya on the international musical map.
P: You said that you do music full time there, so that means you live off your music?
B: Yes I do. I deal in music licensing which pays well. Publishing is also a big income earner. Once your music is placed in a movie, TV, or radio, you're paid every time it plays. The system actually works and artists are paid on time.
P: How do you manage to get shows, sell your music and get airplay there?
B: I get shows through promoters who have heard of me as well as being a member of certain associations that hold events. I also hold my own events although not that often. To be updated on what Iâm up to, follow me on Twitter under the user name âTherealbamboo.â
P: You had scheduled a comeback concert here in Kenya in December, what happened?
B: Well, the concert was planned by some promoters here in the States. Sadly, there were some disagreements between them and my management team, which has pushed the concert to next year around April.
P: What major stuff is scheduled for the big show?
B: I may come back with a guest artist but that's a surprise, which may or may not happen. I won't speak on it until it happens. We'll definitely be working with the best sound and promotional team in Kenya and I promise I will not let my fans down.
