By Sheila Kimani (@sheilakimm)
Quite an exclusive event, Yasiin Bey a.k.a Mos Def’s performance was the most anticipated gig last weekend as hip hop lovers checked into the Ebony Lounge, Nairobi. Fans were ready for a night of lyrical prowess from the South African based rapper.
While the rhapsody posters expressively stated that the event would start from 8:00 p.m, Yasiin showed up at the event in high security convoy at 11:00 p.m and it was only then that the party officially started!
Female rappers, Wangechi and Xtatic took to the stage with their recent hits while Abass and Bamboo took the crowd excitement notches up thanks to their classic hits which resonated with the fans.
Rabbit Kaka Sungura crowned the performances with his “Promised land” rendition and a performance alongside Amos and Josh who did an impeccable job despite the club’s poor sound set up.
At 1:00 a.m, Mos def took over the stage well-armed with his customized microphone.
After putting up an energetic performance of his own song selection, the crowd however anticipated more than was not forthcoming. 1hour into his performance and some of the clubbers grew impatient leaving the packed dance floor for their seats.
2 hours later, Mos def was still going strong. At one point he did an impressive rendition from the works of Fela Kuti but some reluctant fans chanted other songs they hoped he would perform.
While some left the club after growing impatient, those who were patient enough to wait till his last minutes on stage were fortunate to get an impressive rendition of the different request including Miss Booty.
After hours of performance, it was clear that Mos Def came for the rhapsody ready to put up a performance and have some fun, which he did.
Even as fans took to rant on social media, it is no doubt that Yasiin Bey had transformed his brand to become a different artist from Mos Def. With Yasiin Bey being more musical while Mos Def was more lyrical, that must have been the point of disconnect.
