In the world of Kenyan music, it’s not every day that you get a critique from Stevo Simple Boy. Known for his straight-talking style and signature “sober” approach, the hitmaker has weighed in on Bahati and Willy Paul’s new collaboration – and let’s just say, it’s not exactly a rave review.
Stevo, who’s built a name for himself by keeping it real and delivering songs that speak directly to the soul (and sometimes, the wallet), had this to say about Bahati and Willy Paul’s latest musical endeavor: “No meaningful message.”
For context, this collaboration has been touted as a big moment for the Kenyan music industry, with both Bahati and Willy Paul being no strangers to the spotlight. But for Stevo, it seems like these two musical heavyweights missed the memo on how to deliver a track with depth.
“I listened to it and was like… Okay, is this what we’re doing now? Where’s the message? Did you leave it at the studio? Or did it fall off the bus when you guys were heading there?” Stevo quipped during a live interview.
He continued, “You know, I like a song with a message. Like, ‘Tuendelee’—that’s a message. Even ‘Nikikukwambia’—there’s a message. But this one? What am I supposed to do with this? Dance? Think? Cry? I’m confused!”
Fans of Stevo’s no-nonsense style were quick to rally behind him on social media, with some even poking fun at the “lost message” by creating memes and mock video reviews. One fan even shared a video of Bahati and Willy Paul looking for their “message,” complete with a dramatic search montage set to Stevo’s biggest hits.
But before you think Stevo is all about the negativity, he wasn’t done yet. “I’m just saying, the song sounds nice… but if you’re going to make music, make it count! Don’t just release any beat and call it a hit. Give us something to talk about. The only thing I’m talking about is how I lost my lunch during that chorus!”
Still, it’s clear that Stevo’s comments were less about hating on the artists and more about pushing them to do better. In true Stevo style, he added, “Bahati and Willy Paul, I respect you guys, but next time, let’s make music that gets people talking for the right reasons.”
So, what’s the takeaway from this whole situation? Stevo’s message to Bahati and Willy Paul might just be that the secret to success isn’t just hitting the right notes—it’s hitting the right message.
Until then, we’ll be over here searching for the message… somewhere in the next big hit.