Bien-Aimé Baraza has shocked fans and music lovers alike by claiming he turned down a staggering Sh260 million payday, all in the name of friendship.
The celebrated crooner declined the hefty cheque for a headlining concert, opting instead to support Tanzanian rap maestro Darassa’s album launch, absolutely free of charge.
Touching down in Dar es Salaam, Bien was welcomed by a sea of flashing cameras and a visibly thrilled Darassa, as media swarmed the airport.
According to Bien, Darassa had extended an eye-watering offer of Sh260,021,486 ($2 million) for Bien to take the stage. But he said no.
“Darassa called me up, telling me he’d pay me two million dollars,” Bien recalled with a smile.
He added, “But I told him I wouldn’t take a cent. He’s my blood brother. The last time I performed in TZ, it was 6am and he was right there by my side. He’s real. He doesn’t just make noise, he delivers depth and meaning.”
The brotherhood between Kenya’s smooth-voiced superstar and Tanzania’s lyrical firebrand just deepened, leaving fans both sides of the border buzzing. The two have two songs togther, with Nobody being afan favourite
Darassa show is slated for The Warehouse, a venue Bien knows intimately, having rocked the stage there previously with his former band, Sauti Sol.
“That venue is something else. Easily one of the finest in East Africa,” he enthused.
Bien also took time to salute his Tanzanian fanbase, expressing heartfelt appreciation for their unwavering love as he continues to dominate airwaves across the region.
Darassa’s event marks a major milestone; the launch of his introspective album Take Away the Pain.
The show will feature a star-studded line-up, including Ali Kiba, Marion, and Jay Melody.