Dj Vnyash
WCB artist Zuchu, a signee under Diamond Platnumz’s label, performed at the Furaha City Festival. Following the event, Diamond took to social media to accuse Willy Paul of using his name for publicity.
Diamond stated, “The organizers provided everything needed for the event. Yesterday’s show did not discriminate against Kenyan artists at all. Performers like @khaligraph_jones and others delivered exceptional performances and were well-compensated. However, it seems someone decided to create unnecessary drama by involving my name to attract attention. We all know he has been attempting this on social media for a while.”
Diamond and Zuchu Arrive in Nairobi by Private Jet
Diamond further claimed that Willy Paul fabricated narratives to gain sympathy. “It appears he saw yesterday as a golden opportunity to force my involvement in his agenda, portraying himself as oppressed to gain public sympathy. He repeatedly mentioned my name as though I organized the event, which is far from the truth. Tomorrow, I’ll release an official statement clarifying why I couldn’t perform at the festival.”
Diamond Addresses Eric Omondi
Prior to this, Diamond had also responded to Eric Omondi, who criticized him for not performing at the Furaha Festival. Eric, a comedian turned activist, highlighted longstanding grievances about unequal treatment of Kenyan artists.
“Our demands were straightforward,” Eric stated. “Kenyan artists deserve the same respect as international acts—VIP tents, proper backstage arrangements, food, and security. Instead, local artists often find themselves struggling to gain access, while international acts arrive in grand motorcades. Change is coming, and we’ll reap the benefits of our efforts.”
Diamond on Regional Unity
Diamond dismissed any bad blood between Kenya and Tanzania, citing collaborations like Bien’s successful work with Tanzanian artists as an example of unity. He urged Eric to promote love and cooperation rather than animosity.
“Success doesn’t come from hate but through hard work and God’s blessings,” Diamond said. “When you performed in Tanzania as a headliner, you were welcomed with love. Tanzanian comedians didn’t campaign against Kenyan acts or demand exclusivity. Instead, they worked hard to build platforms like ChekaTu, benefiting many. Similarly, Bien’s visit to Tanzania was met with collaboration and warmth.”
Diamond concluded by encouraging artists to inspire unity. “East Africa thrives on love and cooperation. Instead of sowing division, let’s uplift each other.”
Willy Paul’s Next Move
Despite Diamond accusing Willy Paul of clout-chasing, the Kenyan artist has leveraged the buzz to release a new track titled Holiday.
Silverio Omari
