Kenyan musician Bien-Aime Baraza took his United States tour to the next level with a captivating performance that left fans both energized and inspired. On May 14, 2025, the celebrated artist graced the stage at The Howard Theatre in Washington, D.C., where his signature soulful vocals and electrifying stage presence filled the venue with excitement.
Amidst his powerful set, Bien sparked a wave of enthusiasm from the crowd by leading them in a chant of “Ruto must go.” The chant, which has become increasingly popular among critics of President William Ruto’s administration, resonated deeply with those in attendance. Fans, waving Kenyan flags and singing along to his popular hits, cheered him on as they captured the moment on their phones. The atmosphere was charged with emotion, blending music and activism seamlessly as Bien used his platform to express concerns about governance and the state of leadership in Kenya.
Bien’s performance in Washington, D.C., was just one stop in his expansive US tour, which included major cities like Boston, New York, Atlanta, Cincinnati, Minneapolis, Dallas, and Seattle. His ability to connect with the audience, not only through his music but also through powerful messages, showcased the influence of art in amplifying social and political discourse.
While Bien has yet to make an official statement about the political significance of the chant, the impact of the moment was evident. Videos of the performance quickly went viral across social media platforms, with fans expressing their support and admiration for his boldness. Many took to online spaces to praise him, with some eager to purchase his music as a show of solidarity. Comments flooded platforms like X and Instagram, applauding Bien’s courage and calling his chant a powerful form of expression. Some even predicted that the chant could become a national anthem of sorts, spreading across social media and TikTok with unique dancing styles.
The event also sparked a sense of unity among Kenyans abroad, with some expressing pride in seeing their concerns reflected on such a large stage. The fusion of music and political expression in Bien’s performance demonstrated the capacity of art to challenge leadership and inspire collective voices.
The moment also brought to mind other recent expressions of political dissent through music. In a separate instance, the words of Rigathi Gachagua during a rally were transformed into a chant that gained traction among citizens. His repeated mention of “One term” to predict Ruto’s potential fate as Kenya’s first one-term president sparked creativity among Kenyans, leading to viral sound bites and even songs. This trend of using music and social media to voice political sentiments has grown in popularity, signifying a powerful shift in how citizens engage with governance issues.
Bien’s bold move during his US tour not only entertained but also ignited conversations about leadership and accountability. His seamless blend of soulful music and political awareness continues to leave an indelible mark, proving that the stage is not just for performance—it’s also a platform for change.
