Jamaican reggae sensation Etana has publicly aired her frustration following the last-minute cancellation of her scheduled performance at the Good Times Festival on December 7th. The event, which was to take place at Jamhuri Park in Nairobi, was unexpectedly called off, leaving both fans and the artist disheartened.
In a candid social media post, Etana laid the blame squarely on the organisers of the competing Furaha Festival, accusing them of undermining her show to prioritize their event held at the nearby Nairobi Polo Club. The Furaha Festival boasted a star-studded lineup featuring Willy Paul, Rayvanny, Diamond Platnumz, and Khaligraph Jones.
According to Etana, she was informed by authorities that the two events could not coexist in the same vicinity due to “security concerns,” a reasoning she found unconvincing.
“My show on Dec. 7 was being promoted long before someone popped up with a show featuring Diamond Platnumz on the same day and in the same area. Suddenly, I hear from the authorities that the two shows cannot happen in the SAME AREA, and my show is cancelled,” she vented.
Etana’s disappointment was palpable as she described the development as a deliberate act of sabotage. She directed sharp criticism at Diamond Platnumz, calling him a “coward” and asserting her refusal to share a stage with him.
“I am not happy about the sabotage, and let me be clear I am NOT showing up at Platnumz’s show! Someone has paid big money to ensure my event was sabotaged,” she declared.
Allegations of Heavy-Handed Tactics
Etana further suggested that the cancellation of her event involved undue influence and forceful intervention.
“They blocked the event with the authorities. There is more to say, but I’ll leave it at that,” she added, leaving room for speculation.
Her fans quickly rallied to her side, flooding social media with messages of support and criticism of the Furaha Festival organisers. The controversy deepened after reports emerged that Diamond Platnumz did not perform as scheduled at the Furaha Festival, prompting a wave of reactions.
One fan, @BriannS, wrote:
“Etana has been vindicated. What they did to her was gross.”
Another, @JaKompyuta, added:
“So, Furaha Fest sabotaged Etana’s event, and Diamond Platnumz didn’t even perform? Small girl, big God.”
Organisers Remain Silent
Amid the mounting backlash, neither the organisers of the Good Times Festival nor the Furaha Festival have issued official statements. Fans are also awaiting clarification from K24 and event promoters regarding ticket refunds for the cancelled Good Times Festival.
This debacle highlights the challenges of hosting multiple high-profile events in close proximity, particularly in a bustling city like Nairobi. The decision to prioritize one event over another underscores the power struggles and logistical pitfalls that can mar the entertainment industry.
Fans Express Frustration
Etana’s cancelled performance has reignited discussions about fair competition and professionalism in the events space. Fans expressed their disappointment not just for the missed concert but also for what they perceived as unjust treatment of a talented artist.
For many, the situation serves as a cautionary tale for event organisers. Balancing multiple events within a shared geography requires meticulous planning, collaboration, and respect for all stakeholders involved.
A Missed Opportunity
For Etana, the incident was more than just a cancelled gig; it was a setback in connecting with her Kenyan audience. Yet, her candidness and resilience have solidified her bond with her fans, who continue to champion her artistry and call for accountability in the entertainment sector.
As the dust settles, the spotlight remains on event organisers to ensure smoother collaborations in the future, avoiding unnecessary disruptions that leave artists, fans, and stakeholders disappointed.
