The energy in New York’s iconic The Breakfast Club studio was electric as Bien-Aimé Baraza—famously known as Bien from the award-winning Kenyan band Sauti Sol—took a seat across from hosts DJ Envy, Charlamagne Tha God, Angela Yee, and Jess Hilarious.

From the start, it was clear this wasn’t just another celebrity interview. Charlamagne opened with admiration: “You’ve got serious star presence. What brings you from Nairobi to New York?”
Bien’s response was simple yet powerful: “Music, always music.”

He was in the U.S. promoting his solo album, Alusa Why Are You Topless?, and performing across cities. “It’s time the world sees African artists as leaders—not just features,” Bien said, setting the tone for a conversation that mixed ambition, cultural pride, and personal reflection.

Angela Yee steered the discussion toward his transition from Sauti Sol’s collective success to a more personal, solo path. Bien reflected candidly on the group’s evolution:
“We were together 20 years, and we’re still family. But this solo journey? It’s me now. No brothers to lean on.”

He admitted the shift came with both freedom and pressure. “It’s liberating but daunting,” he said, highlighting the growth and vulnerability required to carry an entire vision alone.

Throughout the conversation, Bien proudly anchored his artistry in his Kenyan upbringing. “I grew up on a sonic mix—American R&B, Arabian melodies, and local Kenyan rhythms. That cocktail is my sound,” he shared, giving listeners insight into his global yet deeply African style.

Adding a touch of humor and warmth, Bien opened up about his wife and manager, Chiki Kuruka, and their dynamic as a couple in both love and business. The hosts were visibly charmed.

In a surprising reveal, Bien shared that some of his most popular features were actually recorded long ago.
“A lot of tracks dropping now were done years back—some artists didn’t even ask before releasing,” he laughed. “But they’re blowing up, so I’m not mad!”

The show ended on a stylish note, with Bien gifting the team custom branded sweaters—capping off a memorable appearance that left the hosts and listeners wanting more.

With magnetic charisma, grounded wisdom, and a global vision, Bien demonstrated why he’s not just surviving post-Sauti Sol—he’s thriving. His message was clear: African artists belong at the center of the global music narrative.