Kenya’s urban music scene is heating up again as popular artist Fathermoh took aim at Arbantone stars, reigniting discussions about originality, collaboration, and staying power in the country’s evolving music landscape.
“Kiuno” and the Controversy
The tension emerged shortly after the release of “Kiuno”, a collaborative track produced by hitmaker Soundkraft featuring Arbantone artists Tipsy Gee, Spoiler 4T3, Gody Tennor, and Kantel. The song quickly gained traction on TikTok and streaming platforms, praised for its catchy beats and polished production. However, not everyone was impressed.
Fathermoh took to Instagram to poke fun at the Arbantone stars regrouping after months of solo projects. He wrote:
“Watu wa ile genre ingine wameungana tena, wameona enyewe solo hawaezi 😂😂😂.”
The jab implied that Arbantone artists rely on collaborations and lack the individual strength to make a mark alone.
Gengetone vs Arbantone: A Battle of Styles
The incident highlights the ongoing rivalry between Gengetone and Arbantone. Gengetone, emerging around 2019 with groups like Ethic, Sailors, and Mbogi Genje, is celebrated for raw street lyrics, heavy basslines, and rebellious energy that resonates with urban youth.
Arbantone, in contrast, represents a newer wave fusing Kenyan street rap with South Africa’s Amapiano beats. Its polished, dance-oriented sound thrives in clubs and on social media, especially TikTok, where choreographed challenges have amplified its popularity. While some critics dismiss Arbantone as a “passing fad,” its growing fanbase suggests otherwise.
Fan Reactions and Online Debate
Fathermoh’s comment sparked immediate reactions online. Gengetone supporters praised his jab, claiming Arbantone cannot thrive without collaborations. One fan wrote, “Arbantone is nothing without collabos. At least Gengetone artists can stand solo.”
Arbantone fans defended their favorites, noting that collaboration is common in the music industry. “Even international artists do collabs. Gengetone ni wivu tu,” one user commented.
Impact on the Music Scene
Despite the rivalry, “Kiuno” has performed strongly, earning praise for Soundkraft’s production and the chemistry among the featured artists. Meanwhile, Gengetone continues to evolve, with artists like Fathermoh experimenting beyond the raw street sound that initially defined the genre.
The ongoing competition between Gengetone and Arbantone reflects a dynamic urban music scene in Kenya. While the rivalry can appear hostile, it also encourages innovation and keeps fans engaged. Whether audiences prefer the gritty authenticity of Gengetone or the dance-infused energy of Arbantone, this musical rivalry continues to shape the country’s urban music future.
Staying Relevant Matters
Fathermoh’s social media jab underscores that staying relevant in Kenyan urban music requires both talent and strategic perception. In a competitive industry, fan loyalty, originality, and collaboration all play key roles in shaping an artist’s success.
