‘Njambi Koikai gave us our first gig!’ Sauti Sol’s Willis Chimano
By Sinda Matiko“Jahmby gave us our first gig, she was everything to us when no one believed in us.”
That’s how Sauti Sol singer Willis Chimano paid tribute to entertainer Njambi ‘Jahmby’ Koikai, who was laid to rest at Langata Cemetery on Friday 14 June.
Recalling the early days of their musical career, Chimano says not many people were willing to support them because of the new kind of sound they were trying to break into the limelight with.
Until they met Jahmby at Alliance Française. Alliance has always been a home for creatives, and it was during their many trips to the institution to hone their skills that they met Jahmby and a relationship was forged. ”
She was our first manager and really believed in us… She got us going, organised our first gig. She was our everything, she took on the mantle of manager when no one else could,” adds Chimano.
With her demise and a lot of debate centering around whether she received enough support while she was alive, as is witnessed in her death, Chimano is urging fans to rather not focus on such politics.
“My message would be for people to be socially conscious, help people who are indeed, be there for their friends, and stand up for what is right. Despite the tough times she was going through, she still managed to keep her smile and be there for others.” For long-time personal deejay and friend, DJ Technix, the grief that engulfed his heart was of losing a sister.
“I was Jahmby’s personal deejay for many years. We travelled far and wide spreading positive messages and uplifting inspiration to our fans around the world. Those who knew Jahmby knew that there could be no Jahmby without Technix. I met Jahmby in 2006, when she enrolled as a student at the Black Supremacy Sounds DJ Academy where I was a tutor. Since then, Jahmby has been my friend and sister. She couldn’t go a day without calling me to see how I was doing. I have lost a friend and my personal MC. God gives and God takes away. Rest well Jahmby Koikai.”
Read more