Shalikido, a member of the once-popular Gengetone group Sailors Gang, has made a heartfelt appeal to Kenyans and comedian Eric Omondi for financial support as he struggles to take care of his family.
The musician revealed that despite trying various hustles after the decline of Gengetone’s dominance in Kenya’s music industry, he has been unable to make ends meet. Shalikido admitted that life after fame has been extremely challenging, forcing him to reach out publicly for help.
Shalikido Appeals to Eric Omondi
In his emotional message, Shalikido specifically mentioned Eric Omondi, who has often positioned himself as the voice of struggling artists in Kenya. The comedian is well-known for his activism in championing the rights and welfare of Kenyan entertainers.
“I have tried many hustles, but things are not working out. I need support for my family,” Shalikido shared.
This comes amid growing discussions on the state of Kenya’s entertainment industry, with many artists facing financial instability once their music careers slow down.
The Rise and Fall of Sailors Gang
Sailors, famous for their Gengetone hit songs like Wamlambez and Pekejeng, dominated Kenya’s music scene between 2019 and 2020 before internal wrangles and management disputes slowed down their momentum.
Shalikido’s struggles highlight the plight of many artists who once enjoyed stardom but later found themselves grappling with economic hardships.
What Next for Shalikido?
Fans online have expressed mixed reactions, with some sympathizing and pledging support, while others have urged him to reinvent himself musically.
As Kenyans await Eric Omondi’s response, Shalikido’s story serves as a reminder of the need for sustainable structures in the entertainment industry to safeguard artists’ futures.
