Year of the Jaguar

Celebrated singer Jaguar had just arrived from State House when his name was called out.

Earlier, Jaguar had joined other invited guests for the Mashujaa Day presidential banquet and at 6pm, he drove down to the Carnivore venue where local artistes were being honoured by MCSK.

“And this year’s overall, highest royalties earner is Jaguar,” radio host Shaffie Weru, who was the MC at the ceremony alongside KTN’s Tamima, announced.

Jaguar took to the podium and received the award to the sound of animated applause from guests, most of whom were fellow musicians.

Earlier in the afternoon, DNA, Amileena, Sanaipei Tande and Sauti Sol had been awarded after their songs emerged the most played tracks at various media houses.

It was a colourful event that lived up to great expectations.

Song, dance, satire and wit fused as the best of Kenya’s music talent was showcased in a glamorous  awards ceremony.

It was a rare blend of the old and the new, a black-tie, red-carpet, star-studded affair that featured over 50 artistes from different generations.

Marking its third year, the annual MCSK Awards borrowed heavily from Kenya’s rich cultural heritage and history to put together a Kenya @ 50 themed show where entertainment carried the day.

The memories of yesteryear were brought to life as celebrated stars from back in the day such as Gidigidi Majimaji, Rare Watts and Darlin’ P took to stage, joining the finest from the current generation in a live-televised show that was watched by millions across the country.

From the uplifting vocals of gospel greats Esther Wahome and Mary Atieno, to the riveting benga sounds of Princess Julie, Tony Nyadundo, Suzanna Owiyo, Bosco Mulwa, Babu Kabasellah and Them Mushrooms, the event proved to be a musical showcase that no doubt brought to light how musically rich Kenya is .

The vocally endowed Amileena and Sanaipei Tande gave thrilling renditions of Kenya’s classic hits among them Malaika as Nameless, Amani, Habib, Abbas, Jua Cali and Octopizzo represented the new generation of artistes, singing their popular hits backed by a live band.

This was interspersed by rib cracking interludes from popular KTN comedy shows Hapa Kule and the Real Househelps of Kawangware. There was no shortage of fun as guests followed the festivities until late.

Iconic musician Eric Wainaina made an emotional presentation as he closed the show with his popular patriotic track Daima Kenya.