Kenyan musician Kevin Bahati Kioko, popularly known as Bahati, has sparked heated discussion in the entertainment scene after declaring that he remains Kenya’s biggest gospel artist — despite switching to secular music several years ago.
Speaking in a recent interview, the award-winning singer confidently stated that no artist in the gospel industry has matched his impact or achievements. “I’m still Kenya’s biggest gospel artist. There is no bigger gospel artist in Kenya than Bahati,” he said.
“My Relationship with God Has Never Changed”
Bahati clarified that although he now performs secular music, his faith remains intact. He described his shift as a business decision rather than a spiritual one. “I didn’t leave God — I just made a career move,” he noted, adding that his accomplishments in gospel music remain untouched.
Among his major milestones, Bahati became the only gospel artist in Africa to feature on Coke Studio Africa and the only male artist to win Groove Awards’ Male Artist of the Year twice consecutively in 2016 and 2017. Between 2014 and 2017, he also won six Groove Awards in a single night — a record that still stands.
“The Industry Became Fake”
Reflecting on his decision to leave gospel music, Bahati claimed that the industry had become “fake,” citing hypocrisy, lack of support, and poor pay as key frustrations. “I was once paid KSh 18,000 for a three-day U.S. trip — it didn’t even cover my flight,” he revealed.
He accused some gospel artists and pastors of living double lives, saying the environment was not conducive for genuine artistry or growth. According to him, financial instability pushed many gospel musicians to quit or compromise their authenticity.
Money, Music, and Maturity
Bahati’s declaration came shortly after the release of his controversial track Seti, which drew mixed reactions for its explicit themes. While some fans criticized the song as too provocative, others applauded his artistic freedom. Bahati defended his work, insisting that his current music reflects creative evolution and financial empowerment.
“The only difference between me in 2015 and 2025 is the amount of money in my pockets,” he said, emphasizing that he is now an independent brand who no longer relies on endorsements. He further claimed that his net worth stands at approximately KSh 500 million.
Mixed Reactions from Fans
Bahati’s remarks reignited debate on social media, with fans divided over whether his gospel legacy still holds weight after his transition. Some agreed that his past contributions are unmatched, while others argued that his current work contradicts his spiritual roots.
Regardless of the controversy, Bahati continues to dominate Kenya’s entertainment headlines — blending faith, fame, and financial success into a bold statement of artistic identity.
