Sauti Sol’s Bien Aime Baraza to relocate posh nightclub after indefinite closure – EXCLUSIVE
Sauti Sol singer Bien Aime Baraza has revealed plans to relocate his nightclub after it was indefinitely closed.
Speaking to Nairobi News, Bien shared that he has already identified a new location in Kilimani and that all plans for the move are in place.
In April, reports emerged that Bien and other co-directors of The Manhattan, a bar and grill, took their previous landlord to court over its closure.
Despite the ongoing legal battle, Bien is optimistic about the future.
“There is an ongoing court case, but I have gotten a new venue in Kilimani. It will be bigger and better,” he disclosed in an exclusive interview with Nairobi News.
Reflecting on the business, Bien highlighted its success and the learning experience it provided.
“The experience of running a club business was beautiful and wonderful. I have learnt so much about the club industry since I am close to those in the industry. Profit-wise, it was generating revenue every month. I had a very loyal fanbase and customers. Friends would come from different continents just to visit my club.”
Speaking about job creation, Bien said his business had employed over 50 young people.
“It also created employment for over 40 people who were permanently employed and around 20 part-time workers. It was a good platform for hosting guests from all over the world. Artistes performed there, and I gave Kenyan artists and DJs opportunities to showcase their talents. I will not quit this job. It is a very good investment,” Bien said.
He further emphasised his entrepreneurial spirit, mentioning his involvement in other businesses and his aim to explore new avenues for making money.
The Manhattan nightclub opened in July 2022.
Bien explained that his decision to invest in the business was driven by his desire to have a place where he could mingle with his fans.
“I also wanted an environment where I could have fun. I realised that I don’t go out much anymore. I get paid every time I go out and that made my relationships with the clubs more transactional and that’s when I vowed to build my place where I can feel good and people can have fun with me,” Bien said in an earlier interview when the venue opened.
In April, the club’s directors, including Bien, announced they closed due to unresolved differences with the landlord.
“Regrettably, The Manhattan has been closed for the past two weeks due to circumstances beyond our control, which we believe amount to breach of contract, intimidation and harassment by our landlord, Tuffsteel Limited,” the directors said in a statement released on April 5.
Away from his business, Bien shared insights into a typical day for him.
“Today, for example, I have a two-hour dance session, followed by another two hours with the band. Then I attend business meetings and spend time in the studio. If I’m not in Kenya, I spend most of my time working,” he said.