Vocalist Willis Chimano recently opened up about the pivotal moment when Sauti Sol first tasted financial success, a journey that started in the unassuming early days of the band.
Before their rise to fame, the group embarked on their first European tour, which, surprisingly, didn’t generate significant income, despite the excitement of performing abroad.
While recalling the early days, Chimano shared that their first substantial earnings came from their collaboration with their initial record label, which also produced their first two albums.
“The value of the deal was in euros; I think it was a million shillings at the exchange rate of the time. That was a lot of money for us – we were in our 20s,” he stated, reflecting on the impact of that initial financial windfall.
Sauti Sol’s first European tour, which followed the recording of their debut album, saw the band members navigating new experiences.
“Our first stop was Amsterdam, where we stayed for about three months. We all lived on 50 euros a week (Sh6,800), the four of us. We would go to the cheaper stores and shop for a whole week,” he recalled, illustrating the sacrifices they made during those formative years.
The band’s first concert in Europe took them to an elderly caregivers’ home, a venue that might not have been glamorous, but it was a significant step for the aspiring musicians.
“We played at an old people’s home, many of whom were in wheelchairs and walkers. They paid us 100 to 150 euros per gig (Ksh14,000-Ksh20,000),” Chimano said.
He emphasized their determination, stating they embraced the opportunity, believing it was part of the hustle required to achieve their dreams.
“We knew what we were building,” he noted.
At that time, Sauti Sol had yet to produce any major hit songs.
“We were not big; we had just finished recording our first album. It was just an African band that had come to play,” he reflected.
However, everything changed when the group returned home from their European tour in 2009.
Their breakthrough came in 2013 with the launch of Safaricom Twaweza Live, a significant campaign consisting of six concerts aimed at uplifting local talent and engaging communities.
It was during this initiative that Sauti Sol saw their fortunes change dramatically.
“When we signed up for Safaricom Live, it changed our lives because of the amount of money we were given. That was the first time we saw a few million shillings,” Chimano revealed.
For the first time, each member received a salary, with the four band members each earning Ksh150,000.
Additionally, Sauti Sol Entertainment was considered the fifth member of the group, ensuring the band’s collective success.
“The money was paid in installments. The first thing I did was buy a car, a cute blue Toyota IST that cost Ksh700,000. I was so proud of myself,” he shared, highlighting the joy of achieving financial independence.
Today, Sauti Sol is currently on an indefinite musical hiatus, but their journey from performing in an old people’s home to earning their first million is a testament to their hard work, resilience, and the power of believing in their dreams.
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