Soul/R&B Singer Anthony Hamilton Loves Kenya!
This weekend (Saturday 19th Oct) renowned international soul/R&B singer Anthony Hamilton, will be making his concert debut in Nairobi, Kenya at the Carnivore Grounds. Best known for his 2003 sophomore album “Coming From Where I’m From”, and it’s title track; the “I’m Cool” singer is in person, literally as cool as his music.
Simply dressed in denim jeans, a navy blue shirt and a cool matching fedora hat (read soul-music man hat); he’s clearly elated to visit Kenya, for the first time. He first smiles, before greeting a small audience of press during his press conference held at Hemingways Hotel (Tuesday 15th Oct), in anticipation to his debut concert in Nairobi.
“Thank you for inviting us over and making us feel at home, it’s a blessing to come from far and feel like you’re home and see dark skinned people like me,” he jests, wowing many with his talking voice, as deep as his singing raspy voice. He adds, “It’s beautiful to be in Kenya.” While sitting at the Hemingways’ terrace overlooking Ngong’ Hills on one of Nairobi’s brightest mornings, Anthony also relays his excitement and eagerness for his premier performance in front of a Kenyan audience. He will be backed by his band, which includes an electric/acoustic guitar player, a bassist, drummer and two pianists, among others. “We have a lot of music that we want to bring you, and we want to express ourselves through the music. My band is incredible - really good guys!” He praises his all-male band.
Anthony is in Kenya courtesy of Tusker Lite Experience. The organizers have in the past brought to Kenya international stellar soul music/R&B acts, including Joe Thomas, Donell Jones and most recently (December 2013), Erykah Badu. “[Being in Kenya] is one of the moments in my life when I feel like God is just opening a way for me; I am starting to see the world. It’s my first time in Kenya and I am excited and will enjoy this place,” says Anthony, adding “It’s beautiful to be part of such a country that’s growing and is strong. We look to you guys, your beauty, and the success you are having in your country. We want to bridge the gap; you guys can come and stay with me in America.”
Of Hamilton’s seven albums, his favourite remains “Coming From Where I Am From” because “it represented where I was coming from, native Carolina, and the message. People connected with that.” His latest, “Back To Love” features Keri Hilson and is co-produced by Babyface. He also featured in Jill Scott’s latest album in the song, “So in Love”. However, he makes it clear that it won’t always be about American appearances, only. “I would like to work with some Kenyan artists too. Why not? I want to sing with the world!” And, his final message to all the up and coming lot: “Do it! A lot of time, we [artists] have aspirations and dreams and don’t pursue them. Be creative; don’t be afraid to be different; don’t be afraid to be yourself 100 %. I have done it and stuck with it. It takes a little time, but if you stick with it and it’s something people want to connect with, do it. It takes time but I have done it, and it’s paying. People want something that’s real, something that will make them feel good.”
You can view the Press Conference photo gallery here
Anthony Hamilton’s concert will be held at the Carnivore Saturday 19th Oct. Tickets for the concert are on sale at Sh7,500 for VIP and Sh4,000 for ordinary tickets available at Nakumatt branches (Junction, Mega, Village Market) and Dorman’s coffee House, Carnivore.
