"It's Not Easy Work": Harmonize Salutes Bien for Solo Success After Sauti Sol

Tanzanian Bongo Flava star Harmonize has praised Kenyan musician Bien-Aimé Baraza for his resilience in building a successful solo career.

Speaking to journalists upon his arrival in Kenya for the Old School Bongo event set to happen at Cavalli the Manor later today, April 5th, the "Single Again" hitmaker noted that transitioning from a group to a solo act is a difficult feat that requires immense strength.

Harmonize, who underwent a similar transition after leaving Diamond Platnumz’s WCB Wasafi label in 2019 to form Konde Music Worldwide, expressed deep respect for Bien’s journey.

A Brotherly Bond

The Tanzanian singer described Bien as more than just a colleague, calling him a "brother" who has consistently shown support. He noted that the two often spend time together as a family whenever he visits Kenya.

"He is a brother, supportive and talented. Tanzania also loves him very much," Harmonize told the press.

Harmonize highlighted that Bien’s success is widely recognised across the border, noting that the Kenyan star has a massive following in Tanzania.

The Challenge of Going Solo

The praise comes at a time when Bien is cementing his status as a leading solo artist in East Africa. After 18 successful years and multiple hit albums like Midnight Train with the boy band Sauti Sol, the group announced a "conscious decoupling" in late 2023.

READ ALSO: Bien Blasts Tanzanians ‘Poverty Mentality’ of Comparing Collabos with Alikiba & Diamond

Harmonize emphasised that standing out alone after being part of a legendary unit is a true test of character.

"To come out of a group and stand out alone is not easy work. It takes a man who has fought to see that he can do it," Harmonize remarked.

Record-Breaking Success

Since Sauti Sol’s hiatus, Bien has achieved significant milestones, including:

• Best Artist in Eastern Africa: Named at the 2025 Trace Awards.
• Male Video of the Year: Won at the 2024 Pulse Music Video Awards for his hit "My Baby."
• Debut Album: Released his first full-length project, Alusa, Why Are You Topless?, in May 2024.

Harmonize also teased his own upcoming music, confirming that his next album is scheduled for release in June 2026. He concluded by sharing that despite his busy schedule, he values the simple moments in Kenya, such as sharing a meal of ugali with his "family" there.