Watch: Coster Ojwang Describes His Unique Outfit for the Kenny G Concert

The Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) hosted the highly anticipated "Kenny G One Night Only" concert on Saturday night.

The event, scheduled for 27th September, saw Kenyan multi-talented artist Coster Ojwang take the stage alongside the internationally renowned smooth jazz saxophonist.

Ojwang, affectionately known as "the fisherman" due to his roots in Migori County, spoke exclusively with Mpasho’s Kalondu Musyimi ahead of his performance.

A Look That Caught the Eye

While preparing for his segment, Ojwang’s attire immediately drew attention. Mpasho’s Kalondu Musyimi noted that the artist was "dressed so well and absolutely amazing".

The interviewer expressed immediate admiration for the way the artist was styled. Ojwang was set to perform, but kept the details of his stage outfit a secret.

Details of the Outfit

Coster Ojwangdescribes his long brown outfit as a “caftan” outfit, completed with a white shirt and a checked tie.

“This cloth is known as a caftan; my suit is only here at the shoulders upwards. Anything else is my creativity,” Ojwang said, declining to reveal whether he was set to perform on stage in the same outfit.

“I guess we will never know, it’s about one hour before I change my clothes, or if I won’t change. So, people will only have to wait to see.”

ALSO READ: From Migori to Kenny G: The Story of "The Fisherman" Coster Ojwang

A caftan is a long, loose, and often ankle-length garment with wide sleeves that can be worn as a robe or a dress, originating in the Middle East. 

While historically a traditional garment for men and royalty, it evolved into a popular women's garment in the West, associated with comfort and leisure, particularly at the beach or home.

Sharing the Stage with a Legend

The multi-talented artist confessed his genuine excitement about performing on the same bill as the legendary American saxophonist, Kenny G.

Ojwang stated that he loves Kenny G as a human being and admires what he stands for. He also likes his music.

Ojwang’s connection to the smooth jazz master is complex. He described his inspiration from Kenny G’s music as "yes and no".

He admitted that during his childhood, he listened to such melodies without knowing the artist. He was not "intentional" about music then. However, he acknowledged that those melodies still linger in his mind.

These memories play a part in how he creates sounds, even if not intentionally. Since starting his career, Ojwang’s sound focus has shifted more towards local and native material.

Aiming for Four Hours of Cultural Jazz

Early, Ojwang revealed that he was set to deliver a fusion of jazz and cultural music during his time on stage.

This blend of diverse sounds is a hallmark of the artist, who views himself as "the ambassador of African music".

He showed ambition for the night. He had requested permission to perform for a full four hours.

“I’m only requesting if they can allow me to perform for 4 hours, so that when Kenny G comes on stage, he crowns it all,” Ojwang stated.

READ ALSO: What Nairobi Fans Had to Say About Kenny G’s Nostalgic Performance

During his performance, Ojwang promised to showcase new material. Fans were expected to hear at least two songs from his latest album, Mbak Ndalo.

He confirmed that he brought a full range of musical equipment. His instruments included the regular sax, trumpet, guitars, and keyboard. He also promised to incorporate his "regular shenanigans, the horn, and my voice".

Ojwang explained that his focus was entirely on the quality of the sound. He hopes the audience will call him for more shows after the KICC event.

The "Kenny G One Night Only" concert was supported by several major sponsors. These included Stanbic Bank, Safaricom (with its exclusive Emerald package), and EABL, the makers of Tanqueray and Tusker Malt.

Watch Coster Ojwang's video here: