Harmonize and Bien’s Iconic Exchange
In an unforgettable gesture of camaraderie and musical collaboration, Tanzanian music star Harmonize gifted Kenyan singer Bien-Aimé Baraza one of his signature chains, sparking excitement across social media. The moment took place during the Trace Music Summit in Zanzibar, Tanzania, in February 2025, a meeting that brought together prominent African music stars. Harmonize, whose real name is Rajab Abdul Kahali, is well-known for his contributions to the Tanzanian music scene and his signature gold chains.
The moment was captured and shared on Bien’s Instagram stories. In the video, Harmonize is seen taking off his renowned chain before presenting it to Bien, who exclaims his admiration for the piece. The chain, bearing the initials “KM” about Harmonize’s record label, Konde Music, was highly praised by Bien, who marveled at its design and value. Harmonize’s act of gifting the chain was a significant show of friendship and mutual respect between two major African artists.
The Chain’s Value and Significance
Harmonize made waves on social media by revealing that the chain was worth $500,000, equivalent to Ksh 64 million, making the gift all the more extravagant. The value of the chain, paired with its symbolic meaning as part of Harmonize’s brand, solidified the gesture as one of great importance in African entertainment circles. It is not just the physical value of the chain that makes it notable, but also the representation of the powerful collaboration between Tanzanian and Kenyan music icons.
For Bien, receiving such an iconic gift from Harmonize was not just about the material worth, but also about the deeper connection it symbolized between the two artists. The event, which occurred in Zanzibar, was a key moment at the Trace Music Summit—a gathering that featured some of the most influential figures in the African music industry. This summit provided the perfect backdrop for such a high-profile exchange, as it highlights the influence and cultural significance of African artists on the global stage.
Bien’s Role at the Trace Music Summit
Bien-Aimé Baraza, a member of the popular Kenyan band Sauti Soul, was one of the central figures at the Trace Music Summit, which ran from February 24 to February 26, 2025. The summit, held at the Mora Zanzibar Resort, was a meeting of minds from across Africa’s entertainment industry. Bien was notably the only Kenyan nominee at the Trace Music Awards 2025, where he was shortlisted for the prestigious Best Artist-East African category. This recognition puts him in the spotlight among the region’s most celebrated artists, cementing his status as one of Africa’s top musical talents.
The Trace Music Summit is a vital event in the African music calendar, bringing together artists, producers, and industry leaders for discussions on the state of Africa’s creative industries, music technology, and branding. The event fosters opportunities for African musicians to expand their reach and influence in the global entertainment sphere. For Bien, the summit not only presented an opportunity to network with music moguls like Harmonize and Ali Kiba but also to celebrate the achievements of the East African music scene.
Harmonize, Ali Kiba, and Other Stars in Zanzibar
While Bien made his mark at the Trace Summit, he was not the only star to grace the event. Tanzanian music icons such as Ali Kiba and Harmonize were also in attendance, further amplifying the event’s significance in East Africa’s entertainment landscape. The Trace Music Summit was not just a celebration of music, but also a showcase of the collaboration between East African artists and their counterparts across the continent.
Harmonize and Ali Kiba, both of whom have enjoyed immense success in the music industry, have played key roles in shaping Tanzanian bongo music. Their presence at the summit, alongside other notable artists, highlights the growing prominence of East African music on the global stage. These stars’ influence continues to inspire up-and-coming musicians, creating a ripple effect that will resonate throughout the African music industry for years to come.
Trace Music Awards: A Platform for African Talent
The Trace Music Awards, which are set to take place after the summit, aim to celebrate the very best of African music. With 24 categories, including the highly competitive ‘Song of the Year’ and ‘Album of the Year,’ the awards will honor exceptional talent from across the continent. Bien’s nomination for Best Artist-East African is just one example of how the awards have come to symbolize the recognition of African artistry on the global stage.
However, Bien’s journey to this point has not been without its challenges. Competing against some of the continent’s biggest names, including Diamond Platinumz, Harmonize, and Uganda’s Joshua Baraka, Bien’s nomination is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the East African music scene. The voting for the Trace Music Awards opened on January 2, 2025, and closed on February 15, 2025. The results, which will be announced in March, will determine the ultimate winner in each category, but Bien’s nomination itself speaks volumes about his influence on African music.
Competitors for the Award
Bien’s competitors in the Best Artist-East African category are some of the most influential artists in the region. Diamond Platinumz, one of East Africa’s most successful musicians, is known for his chart-topping hits and international collaborations. Harmonize, who has built a solid fan base with his signature sound, is also a contender for the award. Other notable nominees include Uganda’s Joshua Baraka and Ethiopia’s Rophnan, both of whom have made significant strides in the African music scene.
The competition for this prestigious award is fierce, with each artist bringing their unique style and sound to the table. Despite the fierce competition, Bien remains a strong contender, thanks to his distinctive musical talent and contributions to the East African music scene. His fans, both in Kenya and beyond, eagerly await the results of the Trace Music Awards, hoping for a victory that will further elevate his career.
The Impact of the Trace Music Summit and Awards on African Music
The Trace Music Summit and Awards are more than just an event for African artists; they are a powerful platform for showcasing African talent to the world. The summit provides a unique opportunity for artists to come together, exchange ideas, and collaborate on projects that can help elevate the African music scene. It also offers a space for dialogue on the future of African music, exploring how technology and innovation can further drive the industry’s growth.
As African artists continue to make waves internationally, events like the Trace Music Summit and Awards play a crucial role in shaping the global perception of African music. These platforms provide recognition and validation for African talent, ensuring that African music is celebrated not just on the continent, but around the world. The Trace Music Summit is a testament to Africa’s growing influence in the global entertainment industry, and the awards are a reminder of the continent’s rich cultural heritage and artistic excellence.
The Future of African Music and Cultural Exchange
As the Trace Music Summit draws to a close, the collaborations and connections made at the event will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of African music. With artists like Harmonize, Bien, Ali Kiba, and others leading the charge, the African music scene is poised for even greater global recognition. The exchange of ideas and the support of one another’s careers will ensure that African music continues to evolve and flourish.
In the years to come, African artists will likely see even more opportunities to expand their reach and influence on the world stage. The Trace Music Summit and Awards are just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting journey for African music, one that will continue to inspire generations to come. Harmonize’s gift to Bien is just one example of the strong bond between East African musicians, and it speaks to the unity and shared vision that will drive the future of African music.
