A prominent Ohangla musician faces the risk of losing his fan base following the emergence of a video showing him consulting a local witch doctor.
The musician, known for his contributions to the beloved genre, has been noticeably absent, and his popularity has been declining.
In the video, he is seen bare-chest, with two male chickens seeking devine intervention.
Ohangla, a cherished genre, has recently encountered intense competition among artists striving to maintain their standing.
William Otieno, a local promoter, revealed in a phone interview, “Many Ohangla artists, especially up-and-coming ones, believe there are shortcuts to achieving and sustaining stardom. Artists are grappling to stay relevant; otherwise, they risk being forgotten, which drives some to explore unconventional methods.”
Unlike earlier years dominated by Benga on Luo airwaves and in social joints, Ohangla has garnered widespread popularity.
Local vernacular radio stations have significantly contributed to promoting Ohangla, dedicating programs like “Ohangla Top Ten” that artists use to gauge their influence. Otieno noted, “When an artist fails to make these top ten lists, they become anxious and may resort to other measures to maintain their prominence.”