Kodong Klan Explains Decision of Withdrawing from Asake Concert at the 11th Hour

Kenyan music collective Kodong Klan has pulled out of the "Asake & Gabzy Live in Nairobi" concert at the eleventh hour.

The group was scheduled to perform alongside Nigerian superstars on Saturday, 20 December, at Nyayo Stadium.

However, they released an official statement on Instagram explaining why they will no longer take the stage.

A Pattern of Disregard

The group cited a "consistent pattern of disrespect" as the primary reason for their sudden withdrawal. According to the statement, agreed-upon standards were ignored by the event organisers.

This reportedly culminated in "unacceptable treatment" of the artists and their team during a soundcheck on the evening of the show.

“We will not be performing today. This follows a consistent pattern of disrespect and disregard for agreed-upon standards, culminating in unacceptable treatment of our artist and team during soundcheck,” part of the statement read.

READ TOO: 'Disko' Takes Over: Kodong Klan's Debut Album Redefines Kenyan Sound

The group also alleged that there was interference from another performer’s team. They claimed that the event organisers failed to intervene to resolve the situation.

"Performing under these conditions would signal that such treatment is acceptable, and it is not."

Contractual Disputes

Kodong Klan further revealed that commitments made before any contracts were signed were "repeatedly ignored or changed." The group stated that they made multiple efforts to adjust and resolve these issues in good faith.

“Despite multiple efforts on our part to adjust and resolve these issues in good faith, our concerns were not taken seriously.”

However, they claimed their concerns were not taken seriously by the management of the event.

The collective emphasised that this decision was made to protect the artists, the team, and their craft. They noted that while the choice was not light, they believe it was the right one for their professional integrity.

The Asake and Gabzy Event

The concert, titled "Tukutane Presents Asake & Gabzy Live in Nairobi," was one of the most highly anticipated musical events of the festive season.

It is set to feature headliners Asake and Gabzy at the Nyayo Stadium venue. The event was strictly for those aged 18 and above and was supported by major sponsors, including Kenya Airways, Martell, and Coca-Cola.

Fans had been looking forward to seeing the local collective perform amongst the international acts.

ALSO READ: 'We Should Have Paid More!' Bien's Verdict After Kodong Klan Concert

Kodong Klan expressed their appreciation for the fans who were expecting to see them perform that night.

Who are the Kodong Klan?

Kodong Klan is a prominent group of Kenyan male artists. The group is made up of several well-known figures in the Kenyan music industry.

The members of the group include:

• Okello Max
• Bensoul
• Mordecai Dex
• Charisma
• Ywaya Tajiri
• Coster Ojwang
• Onyach Pala

"Respect is not optional."

The group’s withdrawal has sparked conversations regarding the treatment of local artists at international concerts hosted in Kenya. As of now, the event organisers have not released a public response to the specific allegations made by the group.

Bien commended them for the move, saying, “Go where you’re celebrated, not tolerated.”