Nairobi, Kenya – Kenyan R&B star Otile Brown has spoken out for the first time since his online feud with Bien-Aimé Baraza, urging fans not to be swayed by social media chatter and pledging to stay true to his Swahili music roots.
In a passionate Instagram post on Wednesday, Otile reassured his supporters, stating he has not lost his touch and is more focused than ever on creating music that matters.
“To my real fans… lock in and don’t let them trick you into thinking we’re not lit,” he wrote. “They say we’ve fallen off, but why do those on top keep talking about us?”
Otile’s remarks follow days of tension sparked by comments Bien made after the sudden resignation of Otile’s manager, Mumbi Maina. Just hours after Mumbi posted her departure message on social media, Bien appeared to mock the situation, posting a snippet of his hit “All My Enemies Are Suffering.”
The timing of Bien’s post raised eyebrows and appeared to provoke Otile, who fired back with harsh words.
“That person just had to comment. Always talking,” Otile said. “He thinks he made it off a little Kenyan favour that landed in his lap. Over what songs? TikTok challenges that last two weeks?”
The Jeraha hitmaker didn’t stop there. In a sharp critique of Bien’s image and music, Otile accused him of being more concerned with appearances than artistic depth.
“You call yourself international, but I repeat—you can never beat me,” Otile added. “Even if you win a Grammy, I do not recognise you. Too much bluff.”
Despite the heated exchange, Otile used his platform to focus on what he called a “return to business.” He listed recent releases such as Dear X and Umenipendea Nini as proof of his ongoing commitment to quality music.
“The other day I dropped Umenipendea Nini and Dear X, some of the best music out there—just to show you I haven’t lost that touch,” he said. “You want Swahili music? I will give you good music.”
Otile also announced that he would no longer engage in back-and-forths online.
“From now onwards, I will let my work speak,” he said.
Bien, best known for his work with the celebrated band Sauti Sol, has not directly responded to Otile’s latest comments. His original post remains online, and no further clarification has been issued from his camp.
The back-and-forth highlights the growing tensions in Kenya’s vibrant music scene, where competition and collaboration often collide. While both artists enjoy strong fan bases and international recognition, their recent clash has sparked debates online about respect, authenticity, and ego.
Neither party has made moves toward reconciliation, but for now, Otile says he’s choosing the high road—and the studio.
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