A new Tusker entertainment project has unveiled six Kenyan artistes as finalists of an intensive six-month program, Base to Billboardz (B2B).

The artistes are Muringi Matheri, Manasseh Shalom, Zawadi Mukami, Chris Barr, Peter Njuguna and Ras Amor.

Unlike the past reality singing competition linked with the brand, Tusker Project Fame, B2B picked active musicians, who are already gaining a following, after a competitive process. 

B2B is neither a talent search for beginners nor a contest with a single cash prize. It is a strategic “career accelerator” for artists who are already established musically.

The project is a collaboration between Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL) via their Tusker brand and music star Bien, who serves as the lead advisor and patron.

These final six were chosen from a pool of 30 nominees. Their selection followed a live performance at the Tusker Brew House, where both the public and music professionals cast their votes.

They each bring a proven track record to the table.

For instance, Kikuyu songbird Muringi has gained fans with her song Managī. Manasseh is the voice behind Dark Brown Eyes.

Zawadi shines with Jua Tua. Chris Barr is known for Hamu. Peter Njuguna created the hit Delulu. Lastly, Ras Amor who rounds out the group with Hawa Wasichana.

“Base to BillBoardz is different from what we have done before. This platform is keen on developing, empowering and walking the artistes through a journey of making a career for themselves.We are excited about the prospect of creating a sustainable economy with this platform,” said Brigid Wambua, Senior Brand Manager Tusker.

Some of the requirements included: a published body of work like an EP or Album, significant digital presence over one million streams and a loyal following of at least 10,000 fans online.

“Since the launch, we have been eager to witness the six artistes in action, and we look forward to tracking the impact of this initiative on their growth and development. We want to support them every step of the way as they elevate their careers,” Christine Kariuki, Head of Mainstream Beer at KBL said.

As always,the road map to stardom isn’t easy. Over the next half-year, the group will undergo rigorous training. They are set to participate in weekly sessions focusing on the artistic side such as vocals, writing, and stage presence.

“The main skill we have got is dance and singing.Hizi classes unaimba lazima upige lyrics and know how to perform. Some things are new but we are learning,” Ras Amor said.

There will be monthly masterclasses that will tackle the business side. This will cover contracts, publishing, and making money.

It also offers branding and digital distribution for the six finalists and global outreach where their music will reach international audiences.

Award-winning artiste Bien expressed high hopes for the group, saying: “I am quite optimistic about the level of talent and originality we are seeing from the artists in this programme. Each of them brings a unique sound and perspective that reflects the richness of Kenya’s music scene. I am excited about what lies ahead because with the right mentorship, structure, and commitment to the craft, they have the potential to grow into artists who can compete and thrive on bigger stages, both locally and globally.”

The program will wrap up with the six artists forming a professional collective.

Together, they will record and release a collaborative album, followed by a major launch event to introduce them as a powerhouse unit in the industry.By moving away from short-term trophies and focusing on long-term business skills, B2B aims to fix the gap where many Kenyan artists struggle to turn temporary fame into a lasting, profitable career.

The progress of these talented artistes will be documented on different episodes airing on YouTube. With the release of episode one that unveiled the six finalists, episode two is set to show how far the artistes have grown.

“In Episode 2,you will see the progress of the artistes in the B2B.We have a voice coach,song-writing coach, producers and a well-equipped team,” Simon Maina, Head of Program at Base To BillBoardz said.