Ohangla still keeping fans on the dance floor

By CAROLINE NYANGATen years down the line, the sensational Ohangla star Onyango Alemo is still going strong. The musician is set to launch his latest album, Gor Sirkal next Saturday (March 10), in a much-anticipated concert in Nairobi. Pompous sounds pound rhythmically from the talented hands of the traditional Luo artiste Alemo.His tall frame moves elegantly as he dances, while his deep vocal renditions inspires something akin to awe among his fans, who like to sing along. If you have not heard of Mr Alemo, then you are definitely not an Ohangla music lover. Meet the man who dresses in a traditional leopard skin and matching headgear, creating an aura of mystery around him whenever he takes to the stage.Indeed, those who have been to his shows will agree that his music is properly arranged, carefully thought out and highly danceable.His style of music attracts enthusiastic followers, much to the chagrin of his competitors.Dubbed the latest Ohangla sensation and most sought after artiste in the genre, his melodious voice sets him apart from other Ohangla artistes. And unlike some of his colleagues, he believes in punctuality whenever invited to perform, and always sets the stage with his chartbusters, among them Tabia Mbaya, Tho Luro, and Night Oberana music that makes revellers go wild.The Luo traditional instrument Ohangla associated with the people of Ugenya community, Nyanza Province has revolutionised music scene and trends have moved in the last couple of years.With wonderment, fans gyrate their hips like possessed villagers.Indeed, Ohangla has transcended tribal borders and is largely accepted even by people who hardly understand the messages in the music.Grand treat And that’s not all. Kenyan Ohangla music lovers are in for a grand treat when the high-riding musician alongside his Ugenya Young Turks group take to stage to churn out some of his latest tunes.Alemo will also use the opportunity to launch and shoot his new six-track album, Gor Sirkal at club Egesa East Villa, Umoja One.The exclusive premium show will see fans eat from the palms of Alemo alongside his Ugenya ‘Young Turks’.With gate charges pegged at Sh200, fans will be treated to a blend of Ohangla music, Benga tempos, Afro fusion and Lingala Rumba music from curtain raisers, locally based Congolese music troupe Super Mbali Mbali Stars led by JB Ngandu.If you love great music then make a date with Alemo. He is sure to get you on your feet dancing along to his rich, scintillating sound."Launching Gor Sirkal album will be a great achievement. I strongly believe it will be better than the first and will push me to greater levels musically, besides enabling me to perform beyond borders," Alemo says.The self produced six-track album with songs such as Gor Sirkal, Night Oberana Pt 2, and Nyasaye Ng’ama Ber was recorded at his studio Onyango Alemo Productions in Nairobi.Prior to this, his Night Oberana album has enjoyed immense airplay – and remains popular with a large section of fans.One such track is Tabia Mbaya that warns those who misbehave, particularly in nightclubs and another, Tho Luro, a dedication to his deceased friend Steve. Unlike his colleagues who take long to compose songs, Alemo styles himself as a spontaneous musician.Appreciate music"Whenever I visit the studio, I get down to singing whatever is in my mind. Luckily, it has always worked," says the artiste."I am honoured that people love and appreciate my music. This is a sign I am headed in the right direction," he says.He attributes his success to his ability to address issues affecting East Africa and Africa in general. Indeed, the artiste has been able to combine sound effects, melody and diction to produce masterpieces that are stylistically accomplished and socially provocative.He urges fellow musicians to tackle issues that plague society in order to influence fans’ hearts and minds.Despite his success, Alemo, like many other musicians, has courted controversy. It is alleged that some local musicians and critics have even carefully staged what can be described as character assassination in an attempt to discredit him.Time and again he has been accused of being against fellow musicians due to his fast rising popularity, a claim he terms as a ploy to finish him through bad press.But this has not deterred him from composing danceable tunes which are always well-received by fans. He instead wishes his critics well, saying it is not easy to please everyone."It’s no secret that there are a section of people who are bound to say negative things about you once you are headed for success. For me, this is a normal thing that cannot stop me from giving my fans the best as far as entertainment goes."

Ohangla still keeping fans on the dance floor

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