Kenyan comedian Oliver Otieno, popularly known as YY Comedian, has urged local musicians to set aside competition and work together on one powerful tribute song in honour of the late opposition leader Raila Odinga.
YY made the appeal through his social media pages, where he expressed concern that the industry risked losing impact by releasing multiple solo tracks instead of a united musical statement.
In a video shared on Instagram, the comedian said, “causes are bigger than us,” he said “Raila is a prominent leader in the world and if a song has to be made it has to attain the standards.”
His message comes as a growing number of artists have released individual tributes following Raila’s passing, each seeking to celebrate the veteran politician’s legacy in their own way.
YY, however, believes that a collective song—bringing together stars across genres—would better reflect the spirit of unity and national mourning that has gripped the country.
YY, known for his sharp wit and socially conscious humor, has increasingly used his platform to comment on national issues. His latest appeal aligns with a broader cultural wave of remembrance seen across Kenya — from artistic tributes and poems to murals and social campaigns in memory of the former Prime Minister.
“The problem is all of you want to shine with the moment and you end up not shining at all.” he said in his post.” Take even two weeks. Raila’s legacy is here to stay”
He used the chance to tell artists to unite and support each other in the industry too.