Watendawili Thrill Fans at Sold-Out ‘Live at Novotel’ Show in Nairobi

Kenya’s beloved boy band Watendawili delivered a show-stopping performance at the second edition of Live at Novotel on Friday, July 25, 2025, turning the upscale Sky Lounge at Novotel Westlands into a vibrant, musical haven.

The sold-out event, curated by Novotel Westlands Nairobi in partnership with African Global, brought together Nairobi’s music lovers for an intimate night of Afro-fusion excellence, scenic skyline views, and unfiltered live energy. The atmosphere was electric, with fans dancing, singing along, and soaking up every soulful note.

Dressed sharp and charged with infectious energy, the dynamic duo took the stage to a roaring crowd, opening with their fan-favorite “Niombee” before diving into a medley of their biggest hits including “Hadi Kesho,” “Mapenzi Yako,” “Safari,” and the emotionally charged “Nyanduse,” their collaboration with Kodong Klan.

The pair kept the momentum alive with sensual grooves like “Beba” featuring Xenia Manasseh, the crowd-moving “Disko”, also with Kodong Klan, and the party anthem “Cham Thum (Atoti).” They also paid homage to the Afro-pop scene with “Inakubalika” featuring Matata, and performed “Sina Noma” by Charisma, keeping the audience on their feet all night.

The crowd, a mix of loyal fans and new converts, sang along word for word — a testament to Watendawili’s growing influence on Kenya’s live music scene. The duo didn’t just sing; they connected, joked, and engaged with the crowd, making the night feel like a soulful reunion among friends.

After the event, Novotel celebrated the success of the show with a heartfelt message on social media:

“SOLD OUT! 🎶 The 2nd Live at Novotel was a night of pure Luo Nouveau magic. @watendawili lit up the Sky Lounge with Niombee, Kata Simu, Beba, and Chamthum. Afro-fusion vibes, Nairobi skyline, and a crowd that didn’t miss a beat. Thank you for being part of our journey. And letting us be part of yours 💙

Next chapter? Loading.”

The Live at Novotel series is fast becoming a Nairobi cultural staple. The debut edition, headlined by rising Afro-soul star Njerae, was also a standout event that had Novotel fans buzzing.

“The vibes were real, we are still not over it! We kicked off the very first #LiveAtNovotel with the one and only @njerae and she delivered pure magic 🎶✨” read part of Novotel’s post after the first edition.

“This was just the beginning. More nights. More talent. More Nairobi.”

As Live at Novotel builds momentum, fans can expect more immersive experiences that spotlight homegrown talent and redefine Nairobi’s live music nightlife.