Nyadundo sets record straight on US tour

Caroline Nyanga

When Tony Nyadundo boarded a plane to the US four months ago, he was filled with fear of the unknown. However, when he landed back home about a month ago, he was satisfied his whirlwind 40-state tour could not have gone any better.

"I was overwhelmed by the great reception. It made me realise how much African traditional music is appreciated," Nyadundo told the Sunday Magazine.

Nyadundo and other Kenyan musicians had been taken to the US by the Ministry of Tourism to stage one performance and return. But Nyadundo used the rare opportunity to extend his visa and stage more performances.

"I went with two of my band members because that was the number stipulated by the ministry."

A section of his Ohangla Boys members who remained in Kenya continued performing.

His performances were dubbed ‘Tony Nyadundo Live in the US’.

"Unlike many Kenyan musicians who go the US to perform in front of a few fans in small clubs, I attracted large audiences."

The musician explains that although he was meant to do one show in Washington DC, he extended his tour due to public demand.

Fans requested shows

"Fans had listened to my song Obama on YouTube and CDs that were selling abroad and requested shows when they heard I was around."

Nyadundo says he chose to work on his own after learning from Kenyan musicians who have performed in the US that Kenyan US-based promoters were conmen.

"I promoted myself because I learnt that most of the promoters were out to use me. I avoided them to protect myself."

Contrary to reports that he was denied performance at a New York club after he arrived late, and that he also failed to pay his musicians, Nyadundo says the allegations are a ploy to ‘finish’ him through bad press.

"I do not understand where these claims came from."

He made between $1,500 and $3,000 (Sh115,500 and Sh231,000) per show and says he had the time of his life.

"The only thing I found weird was the fact that most clubs close early. For instance an artiste can begin a show at 10 pm and at 2am the club closes down."

Nyadundo has a new project in the works.

"I can’t wait to release it officially. But since I returned I have been busy doing concerts around the country. Next month I will perform in Kampala."