For the third time this year, Kenya’s answer to Coachella, the premiere grand festival Blankets & Wine went down at the Laureate Garden.
The last weekend was laden with a myriad outdoorsy soirees, but which better one of them all than Muthoni Drummer Queen’s Blankets & Wine festival? After 2 successful past editions in April and July this year, this third edition set out to set the bar even higher than its predecessors.
The lineup was everything but shabby so fans had quite the loads to look forward to. To say that most of the performers on the lineup brought their A1 would be an understatement.
Muthaka, Ethan Muziki, Ayrosh, Charisma, Wangechi and Femi One’s stunning opening performances set the tone for the revelers who were trickling in in droves. All incredible new-age musicians, it suffices to say that they indeed are up next.
Suzanna Owiyo’s high-energy performance made it apparent why she is one of the most revered Kenyan musicians. The prolific singer took to the stage, backed by a full-on band and had the crowd on their feet entirely. Showcasing her true musicianship, the ‘Kisumu Ber’ hitmaker strummed her guitar whilst concurrently serving up live vocals to her numerous hits through the years. One of the best performances of the night, the singer’s effortless rapport with the crowd set her apart.
Yet another artiste of great renown, Just A Band member and a successful solo artiste in his own right Blinky Bill had the festival at a standstill playing his popular hits like the band’s ‘Ha He’ smash while previewing new music at the same time. Then he would bring out Muthoni Drummer Queen for a rendition of their hit collaboration, ‘Feeling It.’
Rounding up the night’s performances was the headliner was no other legendary artiste Jua Cali. Where to start? The hits! The nostalgia! The chemistry with the crowd! The ‘Ngeli ya Genge’ singer proved why he remains relevant and has stood the test of time. He serenaded with epic picks from his extensive catalogue including ‘Kwaheri’ and ‘Niimbie.’
The next and 2023 last edition of Blankets & Wine is slated for December 17.
