When discussing the vibrant live music scene in Nakuru, one cannot overlook the significant contributions of Tamasha Band.

Mtaa Wangu recently had the opportunity to sit down with the band members to delve into their origin, the lessons they've learnt, and the challenges they've faced as the pioneering band in Nakuru.

Back in 2011, Tamasha Band began as a student group with a shared passion for music.

The members were part of a program initiated by Tears Group Kenya, which required them to form a band in order to graduate from the program. Initially composed of four members, the band has since grown to encompass six talented individuals.

The current line up consists of Gideon Musyoka on the piano, guitarist and vocalist Robert Mwambonu, vocalists Faith Mwende and Eliud Nderitu, drummer and vocalist Robert Riziki, and Anthony Njagi on the bass guitar.

Members of the Tamasha Band from left: Gideon Musyoka, Robert Mwambonu, Faith Mwende Eliud Nderitu ,Robert Riziki ,Benjamin Kigen and Anthony Njagi.

Photo credit: MERCY KIHUGU/MTAA WANGU

Riziki recalls that Nakuru lacked a prominent band scene, leading their group to perform alongside the Tears Group Kenya band from Nairobi in various shows.

"It was Herman Kago, also known as Professor Hamo, who proposed the idea of playing on Fridays at an open field near his home. This inspired the name "Tamasha Mtaani," as we played our music while other artists displayed their work," he says.

As time went on, the name stuck, and Tamasha Band was born.

He acknowledges that their journey has been far from easy, presenting both challenges and victories.

One noteworthy accomplishment is their role in pioneering the recognition and appreciation of artists, particularly bands, in Nakuru.

Riziki notes that in the past, most promoters would pay individual band members rather than the band as a whole, leading to financial complications and band splits.

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Tamasha Band, however, takes pride in addressing this issue and ensuring that they are paid as a unit.

Their ability to overcome such obstacles has allowed the Band to purchase instruments and offer them for rent to other bands.

Tamasha Band during a training session in Nakuru town.

Photo credit: MERCY KIHUGU/MTAA WANGU

However, the band emphasizes that acquiring instruments has been a costly endeavour.

They call upon the government to grant artists and bands tax exemptions on imported equipment, similar to the privileges extended to churches. This, they believe, would foster the nurturing and development of youth talents.

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Looking ahead, the members of Tamasha Band aspire to establish a platform for emerging artists, providing them with an opportunity to earn a living through their talents and gain recognition for their work.

Currently, the band performs at Culture Mambo on Thursdays and Chilli’s Tavern on Sundays, showcasing their musical prowess and captivating audiences in Nakuru as well as other gigs outside Nakuru.

mercykihugu@gmail.com

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