Chiki Kuruka, the manager and wife of Sauti Sol’s Bien-Aimé Baraza, has provided clarity on the much-anticipated Sol Fest 2024. Following the band’s emotional farewell to fans last year, there has been a cloud of confusion surrounding the event, with many wondering how the festival could continue without the iconic group’s performances.
Sol Fest: More Than Just a Concert
Chiki Kuruka, a renowned dance choreographer and digital content creator, emphasized that Sol Fest is not merely a concert by Sauti Sol but a festival organized and owned by the band. “Sol Fest is just one among the many companies that Sauti have. They have this and they have Sol Generation and others,” she explained. “What people do not get is that Sol Fest is a festival thus the festival is still happening.”
This distinction is crucial in understanding the festival’s continuity. While Sauti Sol, the band, has taken a hiatus, their entrepreneurial ventures, including Sol Fest, remain active. Chiki highlighted, “The festival is owned by Sauti Sol so of course it is Sauti Sol but the thing is it is not a Sauti Sol concert but a festival organized and owned by them.”
Balancing Personal and Professional Life
Chiki Kuruka also opened up about the unique dynamics of managing her husband, Bien. “There is something beautiful about doing something as a family. I think when you are a travelling artist, being able to travel together with your loved one means you get to experience this thing and other new things together,” she said passionately.
This partnership extends beyond the professional realm, as Chiki described the deep passion both she and Bien share for the creative arts. “We are both so passionate about creative arts and performances, so I mean if I were not managing him, he would still come home and talk to me about these things so why not take the cost of the manager out and bring the cost back home,” she candidly noted.
The Journey of Sol Fest
Last year’s Sol Fest, held on November 4th at Uhuru Gardens, marked a significant moment for Sauti Sol as it was their last performance as a band before focusing on solo projects. The event drew an impressive crowd of 15,000 people, showcasing the band’s immense popularity and the festival’s successful execution.
Despite the band’s breakup, the announcement that Sol Fest 2024 will proceed has been met with excitement and curiosity. Fans are eager to see how the festival evolves without Sauti Sol’s live performances. Chiki’s insights provide a reassuring perspective, emphasizing the festival’s broader vision and the band’s commitment to their fans and the music industry.
A Passion for the Arts
Chiki Kuruka’s dedication to the creative arts and her role in managing Bien highlights the couple’s harmonious blend of personal and professional life. Her involvement in the arts scene, coupled with her managerial role, allows her to support and inspire Bien and other artists. This dynamic approach not only strengthens their bond but also contributes to the growth and success of their creative endeavors.
Looking Ahead
As Sol Fest 2024 approaches, fans can look forward to a vibrant festival experience that continues to celebrate music, creativity, and community. While Sauti Sol may not perform as a band, their presence and influence will undoubtedly be felt throughout the event.
In conclusion, Chiki Kuruka’s revelations about Sol Fest 2024 provide a clearer understanding of the festival’s future. The continuation of Sol Fest, despite Sauti Sol’s hiatus, underscores the band’s entrepreneurial spirit and their commitment to delivering exceptional musical experiences to their fans. With Chiki’s passionate involvement and managerial expertise, the festival is poised for another successful year, celebrating the enduring legacy of Sauti Sol.
