Nominated Senator Crystal Asige has shed light on the silent battles Kenyan artists face due to exploitation by gatekeepers and manipulators entrenched in the music industry.
Taking to her X account, Asige revealed that many artists suffer at the hands of predatory handlers who lure them into unfair contracts, ultimately robbing them of their rightful earnings.
“From platforms to prisons, far too many of your favorite Kenyan artists are struggling beyond words, but because of their handlers – you’d never know,” she stated.
Substance Abuse and Exploitation
Asige further explained that the toxic environment forces some artists into drug and substance abuse. While they are made famous, many are denied the financial rewards they deserve.
“Surrounded by predatory industry gatekeepers, manipulated into thieving contracts, led down the slippery slope of substance abuse, given the fame but denied their fortune and after they have been chewed up, they are spit out,” Asige added.
She urged the public to recognize the challenges Kenyan artists endure, emphasizing that it is easy to assume they are thriving.
Crystal Asige vs. Sol Generation
Crystal Asige herself has experienced challenges in the industry, having sued music label Sol Generation in 2022 for non-payment of her contributions to several tracks with Sauti Sol.
In her lawsuit, Asige seeks Ksh. 5 million in compensation, accusing the label and its members – Bien-Aimé Baraza, Willis Chimano, Polycarp Otieno, and Savara Mudigi – of breaching her contract and exploiting her work. She also demands that the group disclose the earnings from songs she contributed to, including hits such as Extravaganza, Lenga, Ukiwa Mbali, and Favourite Song.
Asige joined Sol Generation in February 2019 and left in November the same year, citing financial issues. She further accused the label of exploiting her disability for profit.
