Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes to make an event successful? We ae diving deeper into Events in this part of season 5 and this week, we are joined by pros in the game: Frankie The Brand, Diane Ywaya from B&W and Gathoni Kimuyu from Too Early For Birds.

We are spotlighting concerts, festivals and theatre productions (big and small). Event production, artist bookings and fan experience remain some of the most critical elements behind successful live events.

Please meet our panelists: Queen Gathoni (a cultural force and creative producer) under Taji & Co. Production, Frankie Theuri (an accomplished event organizer and promoter) of Vibes Only and Diane Ywaya (Communications Expert /Manager at GoodTimes Africa).

This episode unpacks how production teams, artists and audiences interact to create memorable moments. Get to understand the flow of an event, what to look for when booking artists and how every choice you make impacts the final outcome of your event.

NEXT UP: Part Two of Inside Event Production, Artist Bookings & Fan Experience drops next week!

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#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko Season 5 Eps 12

Success in music today is no longer one-dimensional, it’s personal, political and constantly evolving. So what does success really look like for an artist in 2026?

This week on the pod, we unpack the tension between art and commerce, purpose and sustainability and the pressure to turn creativity into currency. In an era driven by streams, algorithms and visibility, how do artists stay true to their voice while building viable careers?

Excited to host one of the most powerful and cross-generational conversations on VIP ACCESS:

• Kasiva Mutua (percussionist, singer-songwriter and producer), on music as storytelling, becoming a music producer out of necessity and her different definitions of success.

• Jesse Mwenda (DJ, architect and founder of Studio Can-V) - how merging his love for music, community, design and sustainability brought him happiness and clarity.

• Martin ‘Youth’ Glover (legendary producer and founding member of Killing Joke and The Orb) on navigating multiple industries, global success, and learning that collaboration and tact is always a win.

From access and infrastructure to identity and intention, this episode reflects on what it truly means to build a life — not just a career — through music.

Key Takeaways from this Episode:

1. Success is not just metrics — streams and charts reflect visibility, not necessarily artistic value.

2. Artistic integrity and financial sustainability often exist in tension and require intentional balance.

3. Community and collaboration are critical in building alternative pathways and support systems.

4. Access, infrastructure, resources and proactiveness at being creative shapes not just careers, but creative output itself.

5. Defining your own version of success is the most powerful act an artist can claim today.

NEXT UP: Inside Event Production, Artist Bookings & Fan Experience drops next week!

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#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko Season 5 Eps 11

We are back this week with the final part of our conversation around Music licensing, publishing and sync placements featuring publishing specialist Shiro Mwendwa, award-winning producer and sound engineer Eric Musyoka and intellectual property lawyer Sharon Chahale Wata.

From navigating copyright law to understanding how songs land in films, TV shows and commercials, the conversation unpacks how musicians can position their work for global opportunities.

• Shiro Mwendwa speaks on publishing administration, sync placement strategies and how artists can access international licensing opportunities.

• Eric Musyoka shares insights from decades working across music production and how that lead him to film scoring and global screen projects.

• Sharon Chahale Wata breaks down copyright law, licensing frameworks and the legal protections every creator should understand.

Key Takeaways from this Episode:

1. Music publishing, royalties and sync licensing are critical long-term revenue streams for artists.

2. Understanding copyright and rights ownership is essential to protecting and monetising creative work.

3. Music supervisors, publishers and producers play key roles in connecting artists with film, TV and advertising opportunities.

4. Strong metadata, clear rights ownership and quality production increase the chances of sync placement.

5. The African music catalogue is increasingly valuable in global film, TV and digital media markets.

NEXT UP: What does success for an artist in 2026 look like? dropping next week

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#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko Season 5 Eps 10

Music licensing, publishing and sync placements remain some of the most powerful — yet least understood — revenue streams in the African music industry, and that’s our focus on the podcast this week, featuring publishing specialist Shiro Mwendwa, award-winning producer and sound engineer Eric Musyoka and intellectual property lawyer Sharon Chahale Wata for a deep dive into the business of music licensing and publishing.

This episode breaks down the mechanics behind royalties, publishing and sync placements and why these often overlooked areas can unlock sustainable income for artists, producers and rights holders.

• Shiro Mwendwa speaks on publishing administration, sync placement strategies and how artists can access international licensing opportunities.

• Eric Musyoka shares insights from decades working across music production and how that lead him to film scoring and global screen projects.

• Sharon Chahale Wata breaks down copyright law, licensing frameworks and the legal protections every creator should understand.

NEXT UP: Part 2 of Licensing Your Sound for Ads, Film & TV drops next week on VIP ACCESS.

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#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko Season 5 Eps 9

In Part 2 of our discussion on Writing Music for Film & TV, Anyiko is hosting award-winning filmmaker Grace Kahaki, interdisciplinary artist and sound designer Jim Chuchu and music producer and sound specialist CLUE.

From concept to final score, this episode touches on collaboration between composers and filmmakers, the role of sound in shaping narrative, and how African creatives can position themselves for global screen opportunities.

Jim Chuchu reflects on composing for the Netflix documentary Hack Your Health: The Secrets of Your Gut, Grace Kahaki talks about balancing between the creative and tough deadlines, while CLUE breaks down the craft of composing and his genera approach to assignments.

Music doesn’t just support film and TV, it defines emotion, rhythm and memory. If you’re creating for screen or considering it — this conversation is for you.

NEXT UP: Part 1 of Licensing Your Sound for Ads, Film & TV , drops next week!

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#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko Season 5 Eps 8

Music on screen enhances storytelling, emotion and strategy and that's our focus on the podcast this week, presenting award-winning filmmaker Grace Kahaki, interdisciplinary artist and sound designer Jim Chuchu, music producer and sound specialist CLUE for a deep conversation on scoring for film and TV.

This episode unpacks the often-overlooked world of composing for visual media, from concept to final score and why music for screen is a powerful creative and commercial pathway for African artists. Jim Chuchu composed music for Hack Your Health: The Secrets of Your Gut Netflix documentary, a light-hearted exploration of eating.

We are also exploring the realities of collaboration between composers and filmmakers; and how sound, score and story come together to create immersive cinematic experiences.

• CLUE speaks on composing, sound design and creating immersive audio worlds for film and TV

• Grace Kahaki speaks on directing, producing and piecing the puzzle together, while working with composers to serve narrative and character

• Jim Chuchu talks about interdisciplinary practice, music for screen and expanding into the global scene as a sound designer.

Key Takeaways from this Episode:

1. Writing music for film and TV is a viable creative and revenue stream for artists.

2. Strong collaboration between music and picture is essential to impactful storytelling.

3. Music shapes emotion, pacing and audience connection in powerful ways.

4. Understanding both craft and process unlocks long-term opportunities in screen work.

5. African sound designers and sounds, are in demand and can seek international opportunities.

NEXT UP: Part 2 of The Art & Business of Writing Music for Film & TV, drops next week!

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#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko Season 5 Eps 7

Whether you’re a musician, filmmaker or creative professional, this conversation offers practical insight into navigating and succeeding in the evolving screen music ecosystem.

Content today is more than promotion it’s currency and a culture mover! Multifaceted content creator and TV host Ann Muli, celebrated filmmaker and cinematographer Enos Olik and leading fashion stylist and brand strategist Brian Babu are on the pod this week on a powerful discussion on Content Creation, Music & Culture – Shaping Africa’s Narrative.

Excited to host three of Kenya’s leading creatives shaping the future of media, content and culture. This episode explores how content creation is redefining African identity, visibility and influence across music, fashion and film, highlighting how storytelling, aesthetics and strategy are shaping modern creative careers and cultural impact in Africa’s digital age.

• Ann Muli, Content creator, actress and TV host, on authentic storytelling, building a personal brand across fashion, travel and entertainment, and how broadcast media has shaped her structure in her personal productions.• Enos Olik, Director of Photography and filmmaker, on visual storytelling, shaping cultural narratives through film and music, and translating African stories for global audiences.• Brian Babu, Fashion stylist and brand strategist, on style as storytelling, brand building and shaping Africa’s pop culture through fashion and visual identity.

They bring great experience across traditional media, fashion, film and digital platforms, revealing how blending craft with content strategy unlocks new opportunities in Africa’s evolving creative economy.

Key Takeaways from this Episode:

1. Content creation is central to modern brand building for musicians, filmmakers, stylists and creatives across disciplines.

2. Strong storytelling and aesthetics help shape cultural narratives and amplify African voices globally.

3. Authenticity and process-driven content build deeper audience connection

4. Strategic content bridges creativity and business, opening doors to partnerships, visibility and growth.

5. Africa’s creative economy is being reshaped by creators who control their narratives and platforms.

NEXT UP: The Art and Business of Writing Music for Film & TV, drops next week!

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#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko Season 5 Eps 6

If you know anyone working towards creating impactful content and stories, share this episode with them.

This week we are featuring podcasting pioneer Adelle Onyango, media personality and podcaster Calvin Wanguku, and TikTok star–turned radio host and TV actress Azziad Nasenya on a powerful discussion on Digital Footprint for New Media Entrepreneurship.

This episode explores the rise of new media entrepreneurship in Kenya and across Africa, highlighting how community building, strategic partnerships and monetization can transform content creation into a viable business in today’s interconnected digital landscape.

• Adelle Onyango, Media personality and founder of Legally Clueless Africa, on pioneering podcasting, building purpose-driven platforms and turning storytelling into a sustainable business model.
• Calvin Wanguku, Media personality and co-host of The Mics Are Open Podcast, unpacks how podcasts grow into profitable brands through partnerships, strategy and community.
• Azziad Nasenya, Digital content creator and radio host, sharing her journey from viral content to mainstream media, brand collaborations and building influence across platforms.

It picks up right where we left off last week, continuing the conversation on digital influence and entrepreneurship. As a follow-up, Anyiko curates a compelling discussion bringing together three of Kenya’s leading creators shaping the future of media, content and community, each sharing insights from their journeys at the intersection of new media, influence and sustainable creative careers.

A strong social media presence doesn’t always guarantee audience conversion but crafting unique, authentic content that truly represents you and your community is a winning strategy.

This week’s guests all bring experience from traditional media and have found the sweet spot where they blend that foundation with digital influence and new media, turning content and community into sustainable ventures.

Key Takeaways from this Episode:

1. Building a strong digital footprint requires going beyond social media to create owned platforms such as podcasts, events, workshops and other direct-to-audience channels.

2. Authentic community building is more valuable than chasing virality, as meaningful audience connection drives long-term growth and sustainability.

3. Content becomes a viable business when paired with clear strategy, structure and intentional monetization through partnerships and collaborations.

4. Experience from traditional media can be a powerful advantage when adapted to new media, strengthening storytelling, consistency and audience engagement.

5. New media entrepreneurship presents real opportunities in Kenya and across Africa, enabling creators to turn content, influence and community into sustainable careers.

From community building and financial growth to navigating opportunities in Africa’s evolving media landscape, this episode breaks down what it really takes to turn content creation into a sustainable career in today’s digital age.

NEXT UP: Episode 6 will showcase how content creation, music and culture are shaping Africa’s narrative. Drops next week!

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#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko Season 5 Eps 5

If you’re a creator, entrepreneur, artist, or brand wondering how to grow visibility, monetize your ideas and thrive in new media, this episode is for you.

Excited to whisk you away to Uganda, Kampala this week! I met Lucy Bunyenyezi (Lucy_Smize) - Ugandan travel, food and lifestyle visual storyteller and founder of Forking Around Kampala) and Roy Ronald Tumwizere - National Advocacy Manager at Uganda Breweries Limited at AUMEX 2025, where I moderating this conversation about mastering the art of influencer entrepreneurship.

• Lucy Bunyenyezi (@lucy_smize) reflects on how she built a sustainable digital brand rooted in culture and her passion for travel, food and lifestyle. She shares how she positions Uganda and Africa as aspirational destinations, via storytelling, consistency and strategy.
• Roy Ronald Tumwizere (also the Founder of Trroy Studios), shares insights from both sides of the tableleading brand advocacy for global spirits while building a platform that nurtures dancers and creative talent in Uganda. He breaks down how creators can position themselves as credible partners for corporates and scale creative ideas into businesses.

As Africa’s digital economy continues to expand, content creators are no longer just influencers; they are entrepreneurs, brand builders and cultural tastemakers. From musicians and dancers to travel storytellers and lifestyle curators, today’s creators sit at the intersection of creativity, commerce and identity. But with visibility comes pressure: to stay authentic, attract brand partnerships, monetize responsibly and build something that lasts beyond trends.

On the show this week, we look at how creators design their visual identity and voice, attract partnerships, build loyal communities and navigate the tension between authenticity and monetization in a highly visible digital world.

Key Takeaways from this Episode:

1. Every creator is a brand: Visual identity, tone, values and consistency shape how audiences and brands perceive you and determine long-term opportunities.

2. Influence must be structured: Sustainable creator careers require systems, professionalism and clear business thinking beyond likes and reach.

3. Partnerships thrive on alignment: Brands look for creators with strong identity, engaged communities and credibility not just numbers.

4. Authenticity is the real currency: Creators who stay true to their vision while listening to their audience build trust, loyalty and longevity.

5. Community fuels sustainability: Belonging, engagement, and dialogue are key to growth, monetization and resilience in the creator economy.

NEXT UP: Episode 5 will fly us back to Kenya for a fire eps on how your digital footprint can lead to new media and entrepreneurship. Love the sound of that! Drops next week.

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#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko Season 5 Eps 4

If it resonates, share it with someone building their creative brand and welcome back next week for Eps 5.

I used to think understanding Copyright and Intellectual Property is complicated but thank God I met Wandiri Karimi and June Gachui, because these women make it so easy.

On this eps of VIP ACCESS, I am hosting them alongside two other industry experts working at the intersection of music, law and creative advocacy:

• Wandiri Karimi, intellectual property lawyer, musician and Lead IP Consultant at Kairu & McCourt Advocates, breaks down copyright law, dispute resolution, legal parameters for artists and the importance of contracts and split sheets.

• Paul Kaindo, Chief Legal Counsel at the Kenya Copyright Board, offers insight into copyright enforcement, infringement, and the role of institutions in protecting creators.

• David Katee, entertainment and IP lawyer, shares case studies from his work representing top Kenyan artists and navigating copyright disputes across local and international markets.

• June Gachui, performer, creative entrepreneur and founder of JGIP Consultants, breaks down what IP means while speaking on performance rights.

As Africa’s digital music economy continues to grow, questions around ownership and copyright protection have never been more urgent. From rampant piracy to misunderstood contracts and unregistered works, many artists are still losing value because of lack of legal clarity.

This week's podcast explores what intellectual property means and what legal steps creators can take when their rights are violated.

Key Takeaways from this Episode:

1. Ownership starts with knowledge: Understanding copyright, contracts and split sheets is essential as unregistered works and unclear agreements leave artists vulnerable to exploitation.

2. Institutions matter, but artists must be proactive: Copyright bodies and legal frameworks exist but creators must take responsibility for registration, documentation, and enforcement of their rights.

3. IP goes beyond recordings: Performance rights, publishing and neighbouring rights are critical income streams that artists often overlook but are central to long-term sustainability.

4. Legal clarity protects creative freedom: Artists who understand their rights are better positioned to negotiate, resolve disputes and build careers that extend beyond hype or streaming numbers.

   This is a timely and essential conversation on intellectual property and the legal foundations every artist must understand to build a sustainable career in today’s music industry. If you liked it and know someone who might, please share it out!

   NEXT UP: Episode 4 will be on building sustainable influencer entrepreneurship.

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#VIPACCESSWithAnyiko Season 5 Eps 3

Leave a comment and join us next week for a new episode.