Renowned Kenyan artist Bahati has officially closed EMB Records.
The premier gospel record label Eastlands Most Beloved Records which was first launched in 2015 is now closed according to Bahati’s recent announcement. And now, only 5 years later, the label which promoted various artists including Mr. Seed, Peter Blessing, David Wonder, Rebecca Soki, Danny Gift, Denno and Weezdom. Taking to YouTube, the high-flying star sat down for a tell-all testimonial giving his reasons for closing down the label.
Among his top reasons for closing the chapter on the EMB Record label, Bahati cited the rotten relationships among so-called gospel acts. He went on to explain his reasons for first launching the label saying,” my vision was to support any artist who was struggling to get to the top…its not like I had so much money… but I knew the influence that God had given me was just enough to help other musicians to the top.”
Bahati went on to open up about the social media smear campaigns that he was often a victim of, and went on to point out that that the falsehoods, and fake perceptions of gospel musicians has continued to contribute to the deteriorating gospel industry. Speaking about his work with the artists in the industry, Baha as he is affectionate known to fans, he shared that he not only gave many accommodation, even offering some acts clothes, opening doors for many to better their careers. He pointed out that, “For me EMB has never been a business…focus yangu ilikuwa kusaidia the artist kutoka iyoshida alikuwa.”
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He noted that the gospel industry that is meant to be a shining light to others has been shrouded in darkness, consumed by jealously. Seemingly hurt, Bahati went on to add that their plans to hurt him never workout, because God has always been on his side. Speaking about the controversy regards his contractual obligations as a label he said that Peter Blessing was used to bring down Baha, only to fall off the radar after the scandal with no new music or projects to show for it.
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Speaking about the heart-wrenching decision, Bahati noted that he did take time to pray over the matter, pointing out that his peace, and more importantly God’s mission would continue on. “To me this is ministry, and what is the point of doing ministry if inakuwa translated; unakuacha na a bad name?”
EMB former signees Denno and Bahati also shared they supported Bahati’s decision, and urged industry players to grow in support of each other, to improve ministry.
Bahati is excited for the new chapter of his ministry and seems eager to make a clean break from the murky waters of the two-faced musicians in the gospel industry.
