In an undated video, Bien who was recently crowned Best Artist in Eastern Africa says he did not know how to drive then.
“The first time I bought a car, I did not even have plans to do so.
It is Size 8 who pushed me to buy my first car, hata sikuwa najua kudrive.
She was ‘You are now a big artist with music being played even on the radio, stop using matatus.
She is a very dear person to me.”
He also shared how he lost teeth after being hit in a car.
The incident occurred in 2007 while he was crossing the road with his sister Biju and fellow artists Wakamba Wawili, Arap Duo, and Wendy Kimani.
“”I had lost 16 teeth. In 2007, I was crossing the road with my sister, Wakamba Wawili, Arap Duo, and Wendy Kimani, just before Wendy went to Tusker Project Fame. We had just finished recording a song about post-election violence,” Bien recalled.
Bien has risen to be among the most successful.
In a recent interview, he shared he used to struggle with self-doubt.
He also credited his wife Chiki for being his support system.
Speaking exclusively with Mpasho after his big win at the Trace Music Awards, Bien reflected on the pivotal role his wife has played in shaping his music career.
“The journey has been crazy, man! You know, the thing about artists is that it’s all about trust. You need someone you trust to handle all your affairs, someone you trust with your life and your career,” Bien started off
He went on to list a few other African artists who are managed by their family members and how exceptionally well they are doing in their careers, noting that it was something he deeply considered before making his decision.
“It just tells you that when you pick the right partner for your life, everything falls into place,” he added confidently.
On how Chiki has influenced his music, Bien proudly shared: “Chiki has taught me how to speak to a global audience!“
Further praising his wife’s impact, he added:
“When I was transitioning from being in a band to a solo act last year, I had so many bouts of anxiety, doubt, and imposter syndrome. She really helped put me in a good mindset, in a good perspective, you know?”
Bien noted that working with his wife has strengthened their relationship and brought them even closer, something he deeply values.
“Also, there is just no time we are not discussing business because, to us, it is not just business—it’s our lives. We can be in bed at midnight talking about something, and we don’t look at it like work; we actually have fun.”
“We enjoy it. It has made us super close to each other. This relationship has saved my marriage… well, not saved it, but it has made my marriage so fun. I’m really enjoying the space we are in right now,” he concluded with a smile.
by PENINAH NJOKI
