The 2025 Trace Awards show has sparked intense debate across East Africa, with social media buzzing over Bien’s electrifying performance. Many netizens claim that Bien outshone Tanzanian artist Mario during their live performance of the hit song Nairobi. However, Bien has come out strongly to defend Mario, dismissing such comparisons as unnecessary.
In a phone conversation with digital content creator 2mbili, Bien addressed the issue, stating, “I don’t read comments, but those are just nonsense. Mario is a very big artist. I don’t like when upcoming artists are put down like this. His songs have been hits throughout December, and even now, he remains a very important artist in East Africa. Leave him alone he knows his work.”
Bien’s remarks came in response to viral comments suggesting that he had ‘saved’ the performance with his stunning stage presence. Fans across Kenya and Tanzania took to social media to share their thoughts:
- “Bien is the king of live performances!”
- “Not Bien coming and saving Mario’s career.”
- “Mario kaamua kutuaibisha, sauti akuna hata kidogo!” (Mario embarrassed us; his voice was not even there!)
- “Uyu jamaa anaimba live nkama ana recordi, hongera sana.” (This guy sings live as if he’s recording, congratulations!)
Bien’s outstanding performance was not a surprise to Kenyans, as he has consistently delivered top-tier live performances. His dominance was further cemented when he won the Best Artist in Eastern Africa category, surpassing regional heavyweights like Diamond Platnumz and Zuchu.
The awards ceremony, held at the Mora Zanzibar Resort, aimed to celebrate the best in African and Afro-inspired music across 24 categories. However, the event was cut short due to flooding at the venue. Despite this, Bien’s award will be officially presented to him in Kenya.
During the call, Bien also revealed that he is working on a new music video with a foreign artist, which is set to excite his fans. He further confirmed that he recorded songs with Harmonize and will release them soon. When asked about the chain he received from Harmonize, he humorously responded, “Nilirudisha hiyo chain, ilikuwa kubwa sana na ilikuwa inaninyonga.” (I returned the chain; it was too big and was choking me.)
With new collaborations and accolades to his name, Bien continues to solidify his position as one of East Africa’s biggest music stars.
