One topic has become a focal point for artists and fans alike: the disparity in support between local and foreign artists. Dufla Diligon, the renowned “Tempo” hitmaker, recently took to Instagram to express his concerns about this growing trend. He highlighted how Kenyans seem to flock to foreign artists’ concerts while often neglecting their own homegrown talents.
The Rise of Foreign Artists in Kenya
This phenomenon was particularly evident during the recent concert of Rwandan gospel artist Israel Mbonyi, which saw an impressive turnout. The packed venue underscored a trend that many local artists have observed — Kenyans are increasingly showing up for foreign artists’ events, leaving local talents yearning for the same level of support. Dufla Diligon used this example to emphasize his point, noting how the overwhelming support for Mbonyi contrasted sharply with the attendance figures typically seen at concerts featuring Kenyan artists.
A Call to Action
In his Instagram post, Dufla Diligon urged Kenyans to shift their focus and start supporting local artists, particularly gospel musician Guardian Angel. Guardian Angel is set to headline Gospol 1, a significant gospel event at the Sankara Hotel in Westlands on August 17th. This concert is not just another performance; it marks Guardian Angel’s major comeback in the gospel industry. Dufla Diligon’s call to action is timely and crucial. He encouraged those who attended Mbonyi’s concert to join them at Sankara to support Guardian Angel. “Those who went to the Mbonyi Concert, let’s meet at Gospol 1 to support Guardian Angel,” he added.
The Broader Implications
Dufla Diligon’s comments tap into a broader conversation about the cultural and economic implications of supporting local talent. Local artists contribute significantly to the cultural tapestry of the country and supporting them is a matter of national pride and cultural preservation. Moreover, the success of local artists has a ripple effect on the economy, fostering the growth of related industries like event management, fashion, and media.
The Global Scene and Local Challenges
The 2023 Grammy Awards highlighted a stark reality: Kenya is struggling to make a mark on the global music scene. This struggle is compounded by the fact that Kenyans seem to prefer Nigerian Afrobeat and South African Amapiano over their own music genres. While there is nothing inherently wrong with enjoying foreign music, Dufla Diligon argues that this preference should not come at the expense of local artists who are equally talented and deserving of support.
Building a Supportive Community
Building a supportive community around local artists requires a concerted effort from fans, media, and policymakers. Fans can make a significant impact by attending concerts, purchasing music, and promoting local artists on social media. The media plays a crucial role in providing a platform for these artists to showcase their work and reach a wider audience. Meanwhile, policymakers can create initiatives and policies that foster the growth of the local music industry.
Conclusion
As Dufla Diligon has highlighted, the issue of support for local artists is not just about individual success stories. It’s about building a vibrant and thriving music industry that reflects the rich cultural heritage of Kenya. As Guardian Angel prepares to take the stage at Gospol 1, the hope is that more Kenyans will heed Dufla Diligon’s call and show up to support their own. After all, the success of local artists is a shared victory for the entire community.
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