‘Let Us Support Our Own’: Daddy Owen Speaks Out Amid Willy Paul-Diamond Fracas.

The Kenyan music industry is in the spotlight after a dramatic clash between gospel artist Willy Paul and Tanzanian superstar Diamond Platnumz at the Furaha City Festival on Saturday, December 7, 2024. The incident, which took place at the Nairobi Polo Club, has sparked conversations about the treatment of Kenyan musicians in their own country.

Veteran gospel musician Daddy Owen added his voice to the discussion, urging Kenyans to rally behind their local artists. Taking to Instagram on Sunday, December 8, 2024, Daddy Owen reflected on how Kenyan audiences have consistently supported international acts, only for these artists to turn their backs on Kenya once they rise to fame. Sharing his experience at a recent event, he recounted how Pastor T Mwangi passionately encouraged Kenyans to prioritize their own artists, even in the presence of musicians from other African nations like Tanzania and Rwanda.

“Yesterday was quite an eventful day,” Daddy Owen wrote. “I attended an event where Pastor T urged Kenyans to support their own in the presence of regional musicians. This morning, I woke up to a video of fans chanting Pozze’s [Willy Paul] name instead of Diamond’s. It’s time we change the narrative. For too long, Kenya has been a launchpad for many African musicians, only for them to turn their backs on us once they make it. Let us support our own.”

His heartfelt message resonated with many, especially in light of Willy Paul’s public complaints about mistreatment at the Furaha City Festival. The Kenyan artist, known for his versatility and dynamic performances, expressed his frustration on Instagram, accusing the event organizers of favoring Tanzanian acts. Willy Paul revealed that Tanzanian musicians were prioritized, while Kenyan performers were sidelined with last-minute protocol changes that almost denied him the opportunity to perform.

“Tanzanian artists are being given priority at this event. This is sad. Mbona Wakenya wanadharauliwa mbele ya wabongo?” he wrote, lamenting the blatant disregard for Kenyan talent.

Tensions reached a boiling point when Diamond Platnumz’s team reportedly tried to block Willy Paul from taking the stage after him. However, the audience had other plans. Chanting Willy Paul’s name, the crowd demanded that he perform as originally scheduled. This show of support was a rare moment of unity, highlighting the potential power of Kenyan fans when they rally behind their own artists.

The events at the Furaha City Festival have reignited a critical conversation about the Kenyan music industry and the need to uplift local talent. For years, Kenya has been a welcoming platform for regional and international artists, yet its own musicians often struggle to gain the same recognition and respect. Daddy Owen’s plea serves as a reminder that the future of Kenyan music lies in the hands of its people.

The incident involving Willy Paul and Diamond Platnumz is not just about individual performers; it reflects a broader issue of cultural pride and support for homegrown artistry. As the dust settles, one question lingers: will this moment of reckoning inspire a long-term shift in how Kenyans value their local talent? Only time will tell, but the message is clear—it’s time to stand together and support our own.

Article By Suzy  Nyongesa.