Sauti Sol's Bien has responded to why Kenyan artistes earn peanuts in their own country.
Speaking to Mzazi M Tuva, Bien said Kenyans do not prioritize culture and artistes end up not being treated well.
"Artistes earning peanuts in this country is not their problem it is the problem with our fans and how they take art in this society. In countries that prioritize cultures, artists are treated better," he said.
Bien further explained that a society that doe not take care of their artiste is reflective of their values and lack of culture.
Responding to claims by comedians Eric Omondi and Jalango, Bien said the two only speak when artists are not winning.
"When we win, he does not talk about it. These are comedians, they should leave artists alone," he said.
"They don't know how it feels to an artist in the time of the pandemic. Art is not making people laugh on Instagram, you have to be out there. We had to find a different way of how we would work."
Bien praised Kenyan artistes for keeping their spirits high even when they were not earning during the pandemic lockdown.
"Kenyan artists I am proud of you. You did not commit suicide. Your houses were locked but our spirit didn't die. Eric is not building any record label, he tried and terribly failed.
Which artists has he built? We have kept a whole label in the time of a pandemic. Our industry is not in the trenches but in transition to a new bigger and better."
Bien further said that artistes are well planned, they can make money in Kenya.
"I have no problem with artists coming to Kenya. It's a good place to do business.
Sauti Sol made 10 million from a virtual experience. When you are well planned, you can make good money while still in Kenya."
How Kenya's street food content is thriving on TikTok