The acclaimed Kenyan Gengetone ensemble, Spider Clan, known for their hit single “Rieng Genje” featuring the infectious lyrics “Cash crop ya Nyandarua ni Mawaru,” “Kaveve kazoze,” and “unibebe hadi mbere ya kerende,” is now reaching out for support.
In a surprising revelation, the musicians disclosed that they did not reap any financial benefits from their viral song, despite its prolonged popularity. Contrary to public assumptions, they clarified that the song only started generating income when it reached 4 million views, making them aware of its monetization potential.
The artists expressed their disappointment, highlighting that the sole beneficiary of the song’s extensive views was the sound producer, who successfully monetized the track, leaving them without earnings despite their dedicated effort and creativity.
They emphasized the challenge of convincing others about their financial situation, asserting that the extravagant lifestyle seen online does not reflect their current reality. One member stated, “So wenye wanasema ati tuko na doo juu ya hio ngoma, hio ngoma ilitupea fame, jina ni kubwa lakini doo hakuna.”
In an interview with Jalang’o TV, the singers of “Kaveve Kazoze” expressed their disappointment with former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko. Despite Sonko facilitating their travel to Mombasa for a performance by covering flight and accommodation expenses, he allegedly failed to fulfill other promises made to support them.
Ngesh, a member of Spider Clan, revealed that communication with Mike Sonko ceased after the Mombasa show, leaving the group feeling let down by unfulfilled commitments. She stated, “Alitupeleka show Mombasa, akatulipia flight na hatukuwai enda na flight hata kama ni mbali hivyo, akatupiga luku na accommodation na kurudi sasa fare. Sasa since hapo zile promises alikuwa ametupromise ziliishia tu hapo hivyo.”
Desperate for opportunities, the group pleaded with club promoters to invite them for shows. Addressing a controversy involving comedian 2mbili, Ngesh explained that she couldn’t accept his help because it was intended solely for her and not the entire crew. While the conflict strained their relationship, she clarified that she harbored no ill feelings towards him.
Despite the global popularity of their Gengetone hit, boasting over 4.2 million views six months after its release, Spider Clan finds themselves grappling with financial challenges and unfulfilled promises from key figures in the industry.
