Bien-Aimé Baraza is a household name across the African continent. As a member of the award-winning boy band Sauti Sol, he has reached the heights of global stardom.
However, his journey began in a far more humble setting. In a recent interview on the I Am podcast with Jeff Koinange, the singer revealed the surprising influence that radio veteran Maina Kageni had on his early life.
Hardship in Rongai
Bien’s childhood took a difficult turn when his parents faced retrenchment. The family moved from the comfortable Kilimani neighbourhood to an unfinished house in Rongai. During the rainy season, the house lacked a ceiling. Bien recalls looking up at the rafters, wondering when the cold nights would end.
Music became his primary escape during these years. He spent much of his time listening to the radio, which provided a window into a different world.
“Sometimes you know you are on TV or radio, but you don’t know you are actually changing someone’s life somewhere. Maina Kageni used to be the centre, like the life he brought into our living room. I had to do my homework and finish so that I could listen to that show.”
The 'Top Seven at Seven' Influence
At the heart of Bien’s musical awakening was Maina Kageni’s "Top Seven at Seven" programme. Bien described it as his favourite show in the world. The energy and life Maina brought through the airwaves shaped the young boy's ambitions.
“I did listen to a lot of music during that period. We had a radio and Maina Kageni used to do Top 7 at 7, my favourite show in the world,” Bien said.
The show acted as a powerful motivator. Bien made a deal with himself: he had to complete all his schoolwork before the clock struck seven. This discipline allowed him to immerse himself in the countdown. He noted that broadcasters often do not realise how much they are changing lives in distant living rooms.
"I was 6 years old when my cousin Sophie asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up... and I said I wanted to be a musician. I want to be a superstar."
From Living Room to Global Stages
Bien saw music as his "ticket out" of a standard 9-to-5 career path. Although his father tried to get him to play the guitar early on, he only took the instrument seriously after finishing high school.
His professional path began in 2005 at Upper Hill School. He met Willis Chimano and Savara Mudigi in the school choir. They formed an a cappella trio that eventually evolved into Sauti Sol. Today, despite being on a hiatus from the group, Bien continues to tour as a successful solo artist.
Bien's story shows how a single radio programme can spark a lifelong passion. From an unfinished house in Rongai to sold-out shows in Australia and Europe, the influence of those early evening broadcasts remains a cornerstone of his success.
