How the Blankets and Wine Festival second edition went down

Sanaipei Tande performing at the Blankets and Wine second edition. (Courtesy)

With an action-packed weekend, Kenyans were outside embracing our known anthem, 'Sherehe ni Sheria.' Blankets and Wine was packed to capacity as revellers enjoyed electrifying performances from a tapestry of talented artists from Africa. They had promised a diverse mix of international and local talent and delivered a remarkable celebration of musical diversity and performances across Africa. Some of the talented artists included Sauti Sol's Savara, Bensoul, Nikita Kering', Sanaipei Tande, Yaba, Dagoz Nomads, and Samthing Soweto.

Blankets and Wine had split the festival into Kenyan and Ugandan Editions. The Ugandan Edition kicked off on 30 June 2024, while the Kenyan Edition took place on 28 July 2024. The Kenyan edition was held at the Laureate Gardens, Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. The event was filled with pomp and colour as revellers came in style. The fashion sense was on point and the artists in attendance understood the assignment.

Bensoul brought his signature blend of R&B, Afro-fusion, and soul to the stage and left revellers singing his songs as loud as possible. If you are his fan, this was the place to witness his genius once more. The "EX" sensation, Nikita Kering', did not disappoint. With her melodious voice and stylish outfit, she entertained the attendees as she sang her heart out. She also left the attendees screaming in happiness after she danced like Beyonce during her performance. This was a performance for the history books.

Sauti Sol's Savara came with his infectious energy, exquisite sense of fashion, and unmatched musical talent. He was donned in a see-through mesh tank top while Nikita was dressed in a black, leather two-piece suit. As Savara performed, revellers enjoyed and sang with him, proving that he is indeed a musical legend in Kenya and internationally. Award-winning singer, songwriter, and actress Sanaipei Tande was not left behind. She delivered an unforgettable musical experience as her powerful, melodious voice pierced through the air, leaving the festival-goers screaming and dancing with joy and excitement.

The Amapiano lovers were also considered as South African artist Samthing Soweto delivered an electrifying performance, leaving festival-goers dancing and sweating on the dance floor. Blankets and Wine ensured to cater for the lovers of the Afro Boogie Hits from the '70s and '80s by bringing the musical legends Dagoz Nomads, who performed tremendously, leaving the festival-goers nostalgic. The Rhumba sensation Yaba brought a new energy as he entertained the attendees.

This event marks the second edition of Blankets and Wine, with the other editions scheduled for 6 October and 22 December respectively. This event had been scheduled earlier to be on 7 July but was postponed to 28 July due to the anti-finance bill protests. In a statement by the Event Organizer Muthoni Drummer Queen, she clearly explained their decision regarding the safety concerns.

"We have the hard news that after extensive consultation, we do not have the necessary security clearance to go ahead with Blankets & Wine this coming Sunday. Due to the political situation on 7 July, there is a high possibility of threats to life and property including road closures, sudden protests, infiltration after dusk, among others," the statement read.

The first edition of 2024 happened in April with enticing performances from Nigerian artist Wurld, Kenyan musician Eric Wainaina, acapella group Wanavokali, rapper Fena Gitu, and Chris Kaiga. Blankets and Wine continues to be a highly anticipated event by Kenyans due to the cultural diversity, showcasing talents from local and international artists and their state-of-the-art African cuisine by 'Onja Onja.'