Sauti Sol, one of the most popular Afro-pop bands, comprises four amazingly talented artists who have managed to occupy an exceptional place in people's hearts. Bien-Aimé Baraza, Willis Chimano, Savara Mudigi, and Polycarp Otieno, the band's four members, have never disappointed their fans and have released one hit album after another. They are an ageless band that started as an acapella group but became one of the most close-knit and dominant groups in their music niche. More in this Sauti Sol's biography.
Members of Sauti Sol. From left Chimano, Polycarp, Savara and Bien | Source: Instagram
The idea of creating a band bore fruit in the minds of Baraza, Savara, and Chimano while they were still in high school.
The three met at Upper Hill School during the performance of the school's music groups. They called this group Voices in the Sun/Light.
Soon after the three got together and met Polycarb Otieno at Alliance Francaise in Nairobi. He was then studying at Strathmore School and was around the same age as the other members.
Once they completed high school, they focused entirely on their musical career and produced one of the best debut albums we've seen in a long time.
Their first was Mwanzo released on 4 August 2009 to a resounding success that led them to release another album called Sol Filosofia two years later.
Sauti Sol on stage | Source: Instagram
The four members started to meet frequently before making their way into professional music and releasing their first song, "Mafunzo ya Dunia," under the band name Sauti.
Sometime later, the quartet chose to add "Sol", meaning "Sun", to their name, thus completing the band name Sauti Sol, which translated to "Voices of the Sun".
The four also went on to take part in the music contest known as Spotlight on Kenyan Music which is organised and facilitated by Alliance Francaise.
This contest boosted their musical career as they got a deal with Penya Records.
Being a famous band did not come in the way of Sauti Sol’s education. They got their professional degrees. Baraza and Chimano attained their degrees in journalism, Savara in commerce and finance, while Otieno completed his course in Actuarial Science.
Sauti Sol at Sol Fest | Source: Instagram
July 2012 saw them release an EP titled "Sauti Sol" in collaboration with the famous South African Rapper Spoek Mathambo. This album was then produced in his home country as well as in Kenya.
The experience prompted Sauti Sol to expand their name into other cultures, which is one of the reasons they recorded a music video in the Netherlands.
The place they shot in was also unique. It was an old ammunition factory converted into a cultural heritage site and is now popularly known as the cathedral.
The language used in most of Sauti Sol's songs is English with a blend of Swahili.
Sauti Sol midnight train album | Source: Instagram
Their next studio album was "Live and Die in Afrika", released on 21 November 2015. This album was available for free online download during the first 24 hours as an incentive for fans.
Sauti Sol called it an early Christmas Present for their fans. This album was the first one to be produced under their label Sauti Sol Entertainment, and it not only did well but also topped the charts with a total of 400,000 downloads during the first 24 hours.
Source: Instagram
It was a testament to the quality of Sauti Sol's songs and went on to win them several awards.
Their fourth album, "African Sauce", was released on 31 January 2019. Primarily known to be an Afro-pop and R&B band, Sauti Sol decided to do something different and collaborated with well-known names in the African music industry such as Patoranking, Tiwa Savage, Burna Boy, Venessa Mdee, Yemi Alade, Khaligraph Jones, Bebe Cool, Mi Casa, Toofan, Nyashinski, C4 Pedro, and Jah Prayzah.
Sauti Sol's song Suzanna | Source: Instagram
This album was another resounding success and their infectious songs like "Suzanna" and "Brighter Days" always left fans in awe. Most of the tracks on this album were very relatable as they revolved around two lovers who had their own insecurities and were looking for ways to deal with them.
Sauti Sol's fifth album, "Midnight Train", was released in 2020, and it is rumoured that the band sang and recorded five different versions of the song "Suzanna" before they were happy with the results.
The song "Midnight Train" is all about the group's journey and the amount of effort they had to put into their careers.
Sauti Sol | Source: Instagram
In the aftermath of the disruption brought about by the coronavirus pandemic, Sauti Sol members caused a stir as rumours of an alleged split filled the internet.
In a press statement, the group clarified that they decided to launch solo careers in a project dubbed 'Alone Together' but it did not signal the end of the band.
The aim of this project is to allow every band member to grow their brands independently, allow them to interact with fans individually and give them a personal touch.
It didn't take long before each debuted their solo careers. Bien-Aime Baraza released his solo track 'Bald Men Anthem' in which he featured seasoned jazz player Aaron Rimbui.
Willis Chimano released his first single 'Friday Feeling' as part of his 'Heavy Is The Crown' EP.
Polycarp Otieno, popularly known as Fancy Fingers dropped 'Father Studies' and Savara Mudigi debuted 'Savage Levels'.
Bien-Aime Baraza | Source: Instagram
Bien-Aimé Baraza is one of the band's original members. This vocalist, songwriter, and guitarist, was born on 28 December 1987.
He hails from the Abaluhyia tribe in western Kenya. Bien studied Journalism and Media Studies at the United States International University - Africa (USIU-A) and graduated in 2011.
Bien is a very active member of Sauti Sol and has put enormous efforts into creating the band's first two albums, "Mwanzo" and "Sol Filosofia".
Source: Instagram
He is also well-known for the songs he has written for other famous artists like Wendy Kimani, Elani, and Amos & Josh.
Some time ago, it came to light that Bien-Aimé Baraza is the stepson of the infamous Deputy Chief Justice Nancy Baraza.
This talented Sauti Sol Member is married to the Nigerian fitness queen Chiki Onwekwe Kuruka, popular for her television show Slim Possible on Citizen TV.
The couple has two children.
Chimano on stage | Source: Instagram
Willis had a prominent role in Sauti Sol because of his melodious baritone voice.
He is also known for playing the Saxophone as well as the Keytar. The vocalist's flamboyant style makes him stand out from the crowd.
Born on 9 July 1987, Willis Austin Chimano graduated with a degree in Journalism & Media Studies from the University of Nairobi.
Chimano's song | Source: Instagram
Chimano has received a lot of criticism for his fashion and sexuality as he was the only band member without a girlfriend.
He finally lifted the lid on the matter and came out as gay in 2021. He boldly stated he will live his truth and not hide anymore.
Polycarp aka Fancy Fingers | Source: Instagram
Polycarp Otieno is also known as Fancy Fingers, but he is the least popular member as he does not sing. However, without him, the band would not be what it is today.
Otieno was born on 14 November 1987. He started playing his favourite instrument, the guitar, at the All Saints Cathedral, where he managed to get free lessons.
Source: Instagram
His immense talent and dedication make him an indispensable part of Sauti Sol. But apart from this, he has also produced music for several different artists like Suzanna Owiya and Dela.
After having a colourful traditional wedding in Bujumbura, Burundi, Polycarp Otieno married his girlfriend, Mandy, in a secret invite-only wedding at the Fairmont Mt Kenya Safari Club.
Savara Mudigi | Source: Instagram
Savara is a very talented vocalist from Sauti Sol who can capture the attention of his audience as soon as he starts singing.
He wears many hats and is a producer, drummer, DJ, and actor apart from being the vocalist in Sauti Sol.
Source: Instagram
Savara was born on 25 May 1987 and raised in Kenya. He studied Commerce and Finance at the Africa Nazarene University.
Savara Mudigi is reportedly dating Yvonne Endo after the two met at a concert in Nairobi in 2018. Their love story was shared in the Docs-series Sol Generation.
Sauti Sol is not just about the music. They have built their love life and have their significant others.
Ben-Aime and his wife Chiki Onwekwe | Source: Instagram
Polycarp and his wife Lady Mandy | Source: Instagram
Savara and his girlfriend Yvonne Endo | Source: Instagram
Bien-Aimé Baraza is married to the Nigerian fitness queen Chiki Onwekwe Kuruka. Polycarp Otieno is married to Lady Mandy, Willis Chimano is in a relationship with an unidentified man and Sarava Mudigi is with his long-time girlfriend, Yvonne Endo.
Sauti Sol statement on the case | Source: Instagram
Sauti Sol's Bien-Aime Baraza called out political outfit Azimio la Umoja for using the band's song Extravaganza without permission during the unveiling of his presidential running-mate in an event in Nairobi.
Bien explained that he didn't have personal issues with any of the party's political aspirants and that he was simply being professional. He further stated that he wouldn't allow him to take advantage of their work.
This saw the band allegedly lose up to 2000 subscribers on YouTube. The political party reached out to the band and stated they were 'willing to pay' for copyright infringement.
In 2021, rumours about a potential break-up of the iconic Kenyan band Sauti Sol spread to many people’s disbelief.
Sauti Sol has been together since 2005. They are more than just a music band, they represent the face of Kenya and to a larger extent, the face of Africa.
However, the band quickly shot down these claims. In fact, one of the members Bien Baraza boldly stated: “The same way it is unconstitutionally illegal to imagine the death of the president, it is also illegal to imagine the death of Sauti Sol.” So Phew! Everyone can catch their breath. They are here to stay.
The group eventually revealed that whilst they were launching solo careers, the group still remains intact.
Source: Instagram
As interesting as the band sounds, one of their members, Chimano, definitely catches the eye. His dressing style has always been a talking point with many people questioning his sexuality.
He has also posted pictures of himself having painted nail polish. From his end, Chimano says that he uses fashion to express, provoke and evoke emotions. He quite literally makes a fashion statement every time he steps out.
In 2021, Chimano ended speculation about his sexuality as he revealed he is gay. Despite being long-standing speculation, some people couldn't stomach the news.
Looks like Sauti Sol is used to controversy.
In 2018, they found themselves on the wrong side of their fans after they offered to pay female models with “food and exposure” for a planned shoot. They were forced to apologize and withdrew the video shoot altogether.
In 2017, Sauti Sol’s song Melanin was in the spotlight after the then Chairman of the Kenya Film and Classification Board (KFCB) Dr Ezekiel Mutua called it out for being sexually explicit.
It was not the first time that the band were at loggerheads with the ex-KFCB chairman.
He also described their song Nishike as immoral and refrained from airing it on the country’s television stations due to its explicit nature.
Speaking of cars, this boy band spins expensive machines. We are looking at cars like Volkswagen, Audi, and Range Rover Sport.
Range Rover Sport | Source: Instagram
They have had these over the years and perhaps they might have done some upgrades.
If so, it’ll definitely be an upgrade to something even bigger.
Sauti Sol sings together but they have their own lives. Let’s find out what each band member is up to with their crib.
Bien-Aimé had a house in the lavish Nyari. This, my folks, is a mansion. His neighbour flew home. Yes! Imagine going to work and coming back home in a chopper.
That, my friend, is the kind of greatness Bien lives close to. And not just live close to but also live. Well, we can’t say if he has his own chopper but you get the point - lavish lifestyle.
As for the other three, Polycarp, Savara and Chimano, they are also living a very good life owing to the success of their band.
It’s not going to be a surprise if they all own mansions. They can afford that.
Sauti Sol promoting Infinix | Source: Instagram
Sauti Sol's net worth is calculated to be around $20 Million. They have generated this amount from live performances, sales of album music, and endorsement deals among other venues.
2015: Won East Africa’s Most Stylish Male Artist
2016: Nominated for East Africa’s Most Stylish Male Artist & “Tulale Fofofo” for Africa’s most Fashionable Music Video
2017: Won Most Stylish Male Artiste – Africa
2018: Nominated for Most Stylish Male Artiste - Africa & Fashionable Music Video of the Year – Africa
2015: Won Hottest Group
2016: Nominated for Hottest Group
2018: Won Hottest Group
2010: Nominated for Best African Newcomer
2018: Nominated for Best International Artist
African Muzik Magazine Awards
2014: Nominated for Best African Group
2015: Won Best African Group & nominated for Best Dance in a Video “Sura Yako” nominated for song of the year
2016: Nominated for Best Male East Africa and Artist of the Year, won Best African Group
“Unconditionally Bae” was nominated for Video of the Year and Song of the Year
2017: Nominated for Best African Group & Best Male East Africa
“Love again” Nominated for Video of the Year & Best Collaboration
2018: Nominated for Best Live Act, Best Group, & Best Male East Africa
2015: “Nerea” Nominated for Best African Collaboration.
Sauti Sol won Best African Group & Nominated for Best Songwriter of the Year.
Savara Mudigi, Polycarp Otieno won Producer of the Year
2018: Nominated for Best African Group and Best African Group in African Reggae/Raga Dance Hall
“Melanin” was nominated for Song of the Year & Best Collaboration
2019: Afrikan Sauce won Album of the Year in Africa. Sauti Sol won best African Duo, Group, or Band
2014: Nominated for Best International African Act
BET Awards
2015: Nominated for Best International Act: Africa
2014: “Surayako” won Best Music Video in Kenya
2015: Nominated for Artist of the Year (Kenya) & won East African Artist of the Year, “Nerea” nominated for Best Video of the Year (East Africa) & nominated for Song of the Year, East African Song of the Year & Songwriter of the Year
2011: Nominated for Teeniez’ Group or Collabo
2012: “Gentleman” Nominated for Teeniez’ Group or Collabo
2012: “I Don’t Want to Be Alone” won Most Gifted East African Video
2013: “Money Lover” Nominated for Most Gifted East African & Most Gifted Afro-pop
2014: “Nishike (Touch Me)” Nominated for Most Gifted East African
2016: Nominated for Best Group (Kundi Bora)
2014: “Nishike (Touch Me)” won Most Watched Music Video on YouTube in Kenya
2016: “Surayako” nominated for East Africa Super Hit, “Shake Your Bam Bam” nominated for East Africa Best Video
2017: “Unconditionally Bae” won the East Africa Super Hit & Song of the Year – Kenya
2016: Nominated African Artiste
2018: Nominated for Best African Music Artist
2015: “Surayako” won Best Song in East Africa
2011: “Coming Home” won Best Music Video, and Sauti Sol won Best Fusion Artist/Group of the Year.
2016: Nominated for Best African Group
2015: Won Most Downloaded Group, “Surayako” won Most Downloaded Single, Most Downloaded Afro-Pop Single & Most Downloaded Song
2017: “Live and Die in Afrika” Nominated for the Most Downloaded Group Single & Most Downloaded Song of the Year. Sauti Sol Nominated for the Most Downloaded Afro-Pop Artists
2014: Nominated for Best Group
2015: Nominated for Best Group, “Surayako” nominated for Best Song
2016: Won Best Group & nominated for Artist of the Year, “Unconditionally Bae” nominated for Best Collabo & Song of the Year
2014: Won Best African Act & nominated for the Best Worldwide Act
2010: Won Best Group
2015: Nominated for African Artist of the Year (Non-Nigerian)
2016: Nominated for African Artist of the Year (Non-Nigerian)
2017: Nominated for Best Male Artist - Africa (Non-Nigerian)
2013: Won Artist of the Year
2014: Won Best Use of Social Media
2015: Won YouTube Channel Award & Instagram Personality Award
2016: Nominated for Most Social Entertainment Personality Award
2015: “Nerea” Won Best Collaboration of the Year & nominated for Best Cinematography of the Year. “Nishike” was nominated for Best Group Video of the Year. “Shake Your Bam Bam” was nominated for Best Choreography of the Year. “Surayako” won YouTube Video of the Year
2018: “Short N Sweet ft Nyashinski” won Best Collaboration
2016: won Best Group
2017: Nominated Best Group & Best Collabo
2018: “Short N Sweet ft Nyashinski” won Song of the Year and Video of the Year, Sauti Sol Won Best Group
2015: Nominated African Artiste of the Year
2016: Nominated Best East African Act
Sauti Sol's Instagram: @SautiSol
Sauti Sol's Twitter: @SautiSol
Sauti Sol's Facebook: @SautiSol
Sauti Sol's YouTube: @SautiSol
The word “Sauti” means Sound while “Sol” means the Sun. Put together, the name of the band translates to Voices of the Sun.
The Band Sauti Sol was established in 2005. As of 2022, Sauti Sol is 17 years.
The language used in most of Sauti Sol’s songs is English with a blend of Swahili.
Bien-Aimé Baraza is married to the Nigerian fitness queen Chiki Onwekwe Kuruka. Polycarp Otieno is married to Lady Mandy, Willis is in a relationship but won't disclose his partner's identity and Sarava Mudigi is with his long-time girlfriend, Yvonne Endo.
Sauti Sol's net worth is calculated to be around $20 Million. They have generated this amount from live performances, sales of album music, and endorsement deals among other venues.
Sauti Sol, one of the most popular Afro-pop bands, comprises four amazingly talented artists who have managed to occupy an exceptional place in people's hearts. Bien-Aimé Baraza, Willis Chimano, Savara Mudigi, and Polycarp Otieno, the band's four members, have never disappointed their fans and have released one hit album after another. They are an ageless band that started as an acapella group but became one of the most close-knit and dominant groups in their music niche. More in this Sauti Sol's biography.
Members of Sauti Sol. From left Chimano, Polycarp, Savara and Bien | Source: Instagram
The idea of creating a band bore fruit in the minds of Baraza, Savara, and Chimano while they were still in high school.
The three met at Upper Hill School during the performance of the school's music groups. They called this group Voices in the Sun/Light.
Soon after the three got together and met Polycarb Otieno at Alliance Francaise in Nairobi. He was then studying at Strathmore School and was around the same age as the other members.
Once they completed high school, they focused entirely on their musical career and produced one of the best debut albums we've seen in a long time.
Their first was Mwanzo released on 4 August 2009 to a resounding success that led them to release another album called Sol Filosofia two years later.
Sauti Sol on stage | Source: Instagram
The four members started to meet frequently before making their way into professional music and releasing their first song, "Mafunzo ya Dunia," under the band name Sauti.
Sometime later, the quartet chose to add "Sol", meaning "Sun", to their name, thus completing the band name Sauti Sol, which translated to "Voices of the Sun".
The four also went on to take part in the music contest known as Spotlight on Kenyan Music which is organised and facilitated by Alliance Francaise.
This contest boosted their musical career as they got a deal with Penya Records.
Being a famous band did not come in the way of Sauti Sol’s education. They got their professional degrees. Baraza and Chimano attained their degrees in journalism, Savara in commerce and finance, while Otieno completed his course in Actuarial Science.
Sauti Sol at Sol Fest | Source: Instagram
July 2012 saw them release an EP titled "Sauti Sol" in collaboration with the famous South African Rapper Spoek Mathambo. This album was then produced in his home country as well as in Kenya.
The experience prompted Sauti Sol to expand their name into other cultures, which is one of the reasons they recorded a music video in the Netherlands.
The place they shot in was also unique. It was an old ammunition factory converted into a cultural heritage site and is now popularly known as the cathedral.
The language used in most of Sauti Sol's songs is English with a blend of Swahili.
Sauti Sol midnight train album | Source: Instagram
Their next studio album was "Live and Die in Afrika", released on 21 November 2015. This album was available for free online download during the first 24 hours as an incentive for fans.
Sauti Sol called it an early Christmas Present for their fans. This album was the first one to be produced under their label Sauti Sol Entertainment, and it not only did well but also topped the charts with a total of 400,000 downloads during the first 24 hours.
Source: Instagram
It was a testament to the quality of Sauti Sol's songs and went on to win them several awards.
Their fourth album, "African Sauce", was released on 31 January 2019. Primarily known to be an Afro-pop and R&B band, Sauti Sol decided to do something different and collaborated with well-known names in the African music industry such as Patoranking, Tiwa Savage, Burna Boy, Venessa Mdee, Yemi Alade, Khaligraph Jones, Bebe Cool, Mi Casa, Toofan, Nyashinski, C4 Pedro, and Jah Prayzah.
Sauti Sol's song Suzanna | Source: Instagram
This album was another resounding success and their infectious songs like "Suzanna" and "Brighter Days" always left fans in awe. Most of the tracks on this album were very relatable as they revolved around two lovers who had their own insecurities and were looking for ways to deal with them.
Sauti Sol's fifth album, "Midnight Train", was released in 2020, and it is rumoured that the band sang and recorded five different versions of the song "Suzanna" before they were happy with the results.
The song "Midnight Train" is all about the group's journey and the amount of effort they had to put into their careers.
Sauti Sol | Source: Instagram
In the aftermath of the disruption brought about by the coronavirus pandemic, Sauti Sol members caused a stir as rumours of an alleged split filled the internet.
In a press statement, the group clarified that they decided to launch solo careers in a project dubbed 'Alone Together' but it did not signal the end of the band.
The aim of this project is to allow every band member to grow their brands independently, allow them to interact with fans individually and give them a personal touch.
It didn't take long before each debuted their solo careers. Bien-Aime Baraza released his solo track 'Bald Men Anthem' in which he featured seasoned jazz player Aaron Rimbui.
Willis Chimano released his first single 'Friday Feeling' as part of his 'Heavy Is The Crown' EP.
Polycarp Otieno, popularly known as Fancy Fingers dropped 'Father Studies' and Savara Mudigi debuted 'Savage Levels'.
Bien-Aime Baraza | Source: Instagram
Bien-Aimé Baraza is one of the band's original members. This vocalist, songwriter, and guitarist, was born on 28 December 1987.
He hails from the Abaluhyia tribe in western Kenya. Bien studied Journalism and Media Studies at the United States International University - Africa (USIU-A) and graduated in 2011.
Bien is a very active member of Sauti Sol and has put enormous efforts into creating the band's first two albums, "Mwanzo" and "Sol Filosofia".
Source: Instagram
He is also well-known for the songs he has written for other famous artists like Wendy Kimani, Elani, and Amos & Josh.
Some time ago, it came to light that Bien-Aimé Baraza is the stepson of the infamous Deputy Chief Justice Nancy Baraza.
This talented Sauti Sol Member is married to the Nigerian fitness queen Chiki Onwekwe Kuruka, popular for her television show Slim Possible on Citizen TV.
The couple has two children.
Chimano on stage | Source: Instagram
Willis had a prominent role in Sauti Sol because of his melodious baritone voice.
He is also known for playing the Saxophone as well as the Keytar. The vocalist's flamboyant style makes him stand out from the crowd.
Born on 9 July 1987, Willis Austin Chimano graduated with a degree in Journalism & Media Studies from the University of Nairobi.
Chimano's song | Source: Instagram
Chimano has received a lot of criticism for his fashion and sexuality as he was the only band member without a girlfriend.
He finally lifted the lid on the matter and came out as gay in 2021. He boldly stated he will live his truth and not hide anymore.
Polycarp aka Fancy Fingers | Source: Instagram
Polycarp Otieno is also known as Fancy Fingers, but he is the least popular member as he does not sing. However, without him, the band would not be what it is today.
Otieno was born on 14 November 1987. He started playing his favourite instrument, the guitar, at the All Saints Cathedral, where he managed to get free lessons.
Source: Instagram
His immense talent and dedication make him an indispensable part of Sauti Sol. But apart from this, he has also produced music for several different artists like Suzanna Owiya and Dela.
After having a colourful traditional wedding in Bujumbura, Burundi, Polycarp Otieno married his girlfriend, Mandy, in a secret invite-only wedding at the Fairmont Mt Kenya Safari Club.
Savara Mudigi | Source: Instagram
Savara is a very talented vocalist from Sauti Sol who can capture the attention of his audience as soon as he starts singing.
He wears many hats and is a producer, drummer, DJ, and actor apart from being the vocalist in Sauti Sol.
Source: Instagram
Savara was born on 25 May 1987 and raised in Kenya. He studied Commerce and Finance at the Africa Nazarene University.
Savara Mudigi is reportedly dating Yvonne Endo after the two met at a concert in Nairobi in 2018. Their love story was shared in the Docs-series Sol Generation.
Sauti Sol is not just about the music. They have built their love life and have their significant others.
Ben-Aime and his wife Chiki Onwekwe | Source: Instagram
Polycarp and his wife Lady Mandy | Source: Instagram
Savara and his girlfriend Yvonne Endo | Source: Instagram
Bien-Aimé Baraza is married to the Nigerian fitness queen Chiki Onwekwe Kuruka. Polycarp Otieno is married to Lady Mandy, Willis Chimano is in a relationship with an unidentified man and Sarava Mudigi is with his long-time girlfriend, Yvonne Endo.
Sauti Sol statement on the case | Source: Instagram
Sauti Sol's Bien-Aime Baraza called out political outfit Azimio la Umoja for using the band's song Extravaganza without permission during the unveiling of his presidential running-mate in an event in Nairobi.
Bien explained that he didn't have personal issues with any of the party's political aspirants and that he was simply being professional. He further stated that he wouldn't allow him to take advantage of their work.
This saw the band allegedly lose up to 2000 subscribers on YouTube. The political party reached out to the band and stated they were 'willing to pay' for copyright infringement.
In 2021, rumours about a potential break-up of the iconic Kenyan band Sauti Sol spread to many people’s disbelief.
Sauti Sol has been together since 2005. They are more than just a music band, they represent the face of Kenya and to a larger extent, the face of Africa.
However, the band quickly shot down these claims. In fact, one of the members Bien Baraza boldly stated: “The same way it is unconstitutionally illegal to imagine the death of the president, it is also illegal to imagine the death of Sauti Sol.” So Phew! Everyone can catch their breath. They are here to stay.
The group eventually revealed that whilst they were launching solo careers, the group still remains intact.
Source: Instagram
As interesting as the band sounds, one of their members, Chimano, definitely catches the eye. His dressing style has always been a talking point with many people questioning his sexuality.
He has also posted pictures of himself having painted nail polish. From his end, Chimano says that he uses fashion to express, provoke and evoke emotions. He quite literally makes a fashion statement every time he steps out.
In 2021, Chimano ended speculation about his sexuality as he revealed he is gay. Despite being long-standing speculation, some people couldn't stomach the news.
Looks like Sauti Sol is used to controversy.
In 2018, they found themselves on the wrong side of their fans after they offered to pay female models with “food and exposure” for a planned shoot. They were forced to apologize and withdrew the video shoot altogether.
In 2017, Sauti Sol’s song Melanin was in the spotlight after the then Chairman of the Kenya Film and Classification Board (KFCB) Dr Ezekiel Mutua called it out for being sexually explicit.
It was not the first time that the band were at loggerheads with the ex-KFCB chairman.
He also described their song Nishike as immoral and refrained from airing it on the country’s television stations due to its explicit nature.
Speaking of cars, this boy band spins expensive machines. We are looking at cars like Volkswagen, Audi, and Range Rover Sport.
Range Rover Sport | Source: Instagram
They have had these over the years and perhaps they might have done some upgrades.
If so, it’ll definitely be an upgrade to something even bigger.
Sauti Sol sings together but they have their own lives. Let’s find out what each band member is up to with their crib.
Bien-Aimé had a house in the lavish Nyari. This, my folks, is a mansion. His neighbour flew home. Yes! Imagine going to work and coming back home in a chopper.
That, my friend, is the kind of greatness Bien lives close to. And not just live close to but also live. Well, we can’t say if he has his own chopper but you get the point - lavish lifestyle.
As for the other three, Polycarp, Savara and Chimano, they are also living a very good life owing to the success of their band.
It’s not going to be a surprise if they all own mansions. They can afford that.
Sauti Sol promoting Infinix | Source: Instagram
Sauti Sol's net worth is calculated to be around $20 Million. They have generated this amount from live performances, sales of album music, and endorsement deals among other venues.
2015: Won East Africa’s Most Stylish Male Artist
2016: Nominated for East Africa’s Most Stylish Male Artist & “Tulale Fofofo” for Africa’s most Fashionable Music Video
2017: Won Most Stylish Male Artiste – Africa
2018: Nominated for Most Stylish Male Artiste - Africa & Fashionable Music Video of the Year – Africa
2015: Won Hottest Group
2016: Nominated for Hottest Group
2018: Won Hottest Group
2010: Nominated for Best African Newcomer
2018: Nominated for Best International Artist
African Muzik Magazine Awards
2014: Nominated for Best African Group
2015: Won Best African Group & nominated for Best Dance in a Video “Sura Yako” nominated for song of the year
2016: Nominated for Best Male East Africa and Artist of the Year, won Best African Group
“Unconditionally Bae” was nominated for Video of the Year and Song of the Year
2017: Nominated for Best African Group & Best Male East Africa
“Love again” Nominated for Video of the Year & Best Collaboration
2018: Nominated for Best Live Act, Best Group, & Best Male East Africa
2015: “Nerea” Nominated for Best African Collaboration.
Sauti Sol won Best African Group & Nominated for Best Songwriter of the Year.
Savara Mudigi, Polycarp Otieno won Producer of the Year
2018: Nominated for Best African Group and Best African Group in African Reggae/Raga Dance Hall
“Melanin” was nominated for Song of the Year & Best Collaboration
2019: Afrikan Sauce won Album of the Year in Africa. Sauti Sol won best African Duo, Group, or Band
2014: Nominated for Best International African Act
BET Awards
2015: Nominated for Best International Act: Africa
2014: “Surayako” won Best Music Video in Kenya
2015: Nominated for Artist of the Year (Kenya) & won East African Artist of the Year, “Nerea” nominated for Best Video of the Year (East Africa) & nominated for Song of the Year, East African Song of the Year & Songwriter of the Year
2011: Nominated for Teeniez’ Group or Collabo
2012: “Gentleman” Nominated for Teeniez’ Group or Collabo
2012: “I Don’t Want to Be Alone” won Most Gifted East African Video
2013: “Money Lover” Nominated for Most Gifted East African & Most Gifted Afro-pop
2014: “Nishike (Touch Me)” Nominated for Most Gifted East African
2016: Nominated for Best Group (Kundi Bora)
2014: “Nishike (Touch Me)” won Most Watched Music Video on YouTube in Kenya
2016: “Surayako” nominated for East Africa Super Hit, “Shake Your Bam Bam” nominated for East Africa Best Video
2017: “Unconditionally Bae” won the East Africa Super Hit & Song of the Year – Kenya
2016: Nominated African Artiste
2018: Nominated for Best African Music Artist
2015: “Surayako” won Best Song in East Africa
2011: “Coming Home” won Best Music Video, and Sauti Sol won Best Fusion Artist/Group of the Year.
2016: Nominated for Best African Group
2015: Won Most Downloaded Group, “Surayako” won Most Downloaded Single, Most Downloaded Afro-Pop Single & Most Downloaded Song
2017: “Live and Die in Afrika” Nominated for the Most Downloaded Group Single & Most Downloaded Song of the Year. Sauti Sol Nominated for the Most Downloaded Afro-Pop Artists
2014: Nominated for Best Group
2015: Nominated for Best Group, “Surayako” nominated for Best Song
2016: Won Best Group & nominated for Artist of the Year, “Unconditionally Bae” nominated for Best Collabo & Song of the Year
2014: Won Best African Act & nominated for the Best Worldwide Act
2010: Won Best Group
2015: Nominated for African Artist of the Year (Non-Nigerian)
2016: Nominated for African Artist of the Year (Non-Nigerian)
2017: Nominated for Best Male Artist - Africa (Non-Nigerian)
2013: Won Artist of the Year
2014: Won Best Use of Social Media
2015: Won YouTube Channel Award & Instagram Personality Award
2016: Nominated for Most Social Entertainment Personality Award
2015: “Nerea” Won Best Collaboration of the Year & nominated for Best Cinematography of the Year. “Nishike” was nominated for Best Group Video of the Year. “Shake Your Bam Bam” was nominated for Best Choreography of the Year. “Surayako” won YouTube Video of the Year
2018: “Short N Sweet ft Nyashinski” won Best Collaboration
2016: won Best Group
2017: Nominated Best Group & Best Collabo
2018: “Short N Sweet ft Nyashinski” won Song of the Year and Video of the Year, Sauti Sol Won Best Group
2015: Nominated African Artiste of the Year
2016: Nominated Best East African Act
Sauti Sol's Instagram: @SautiSol
Sauti Sol's Twitter: @SautiSol
Sauti Sol's Facebook: @SautiSol
Sauti Sol's YouTube: @SautiSol
The word “Sauti” means Sound while “Sol” means the Sun. Put together, the name of the band translates to Voices of the Sun.
The Band Sauti Sol was established in 2005. As of 2022, Sauti Sol is 17 years.
The language used in most of Sauti Sol’s songs is English with a blend of Swahili.
Bien-Aimé Baraza is married to the Nigerian fitness queen Chiki Onwekwe Kuruka. Polycarp Otieno is married to Lady Mandy, Willis is in a relationship but won't disclose his partner's identity and Sarava Mudigi is with his long-time girlfriend, Yvonne Endo.
Sauti Sol's net worth is calculated to be around $20 Million. They have generated this amount from live performances, sales of album music, and endorsement deals among other venues.
