Dan Kauna

Securing a performance slot at the Blankets &amp; Wine festival is a coveted milestone for many artists.

The festival's founder, Muthoni Ndonga, recently detailed the meticulous curation process, describing it as an exclusive system based on an artist's career momentum rather than direct pitching.

Speaking at a 'Stakeholder's Breakfast' panel, Ndonga explained that the festival operates on a 'don't call us, we'll call you' basis, reserved for artists who have reached a specific point in their careers.

The panel at the Blankets & Wine Stakeholder Breakfast on October 29, 2025

"Blankets is only gonna happen to you as an artist when it's your time. You never need to pitch Blankets. This is one of those things where literally 'Don't call us, we'll call you'," she stated.

The selection of an artist is also tied to <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/entertainment/music/long-wait-for-joshua-baraka-peaks-with-bien-maya-amolo-and-mr-tee-2025092911594321168">specific career milestones and to an artist's readiness to transition </a>to a wider audience.

"It only happens to you when it's right for your career, and it happens to you when you have the right momentum, when you've built your community, and you need that spotlight on you, and you're ready to transition from being famous in the community to kind of being discovered by people outside of the community, and that's why for us 2.00 pm is as worthy a slot as 10.00 pm." MDQ explained.

<h3>The slot doesn't matter, the type of show does</h3>

Building on the idea that all slots hold value, Ndonga stressed that the quality and impact of the performance are more critical than the specific set time.

"One of the things I've really learned from being a touring artist, it doesn't matter the time you play on the slot, it matters the type of show you play, because you only need one person to see you," she said.

The festival's lineup is structured around four distinct categories, each serving a different purpose in pushing the event's narrative:

<ol><li>Discovery slots: "These are artists who have picked momentum but are still locked within their community and are ripe for discovery."</li><li>Rising stars: "These are people who have done more, they're outside of their community and we kind of step in, and add that jet fuel to the conversation."</li><li>Legends: "Artists who don't have anything to prove, they've done their work and they exist and we're thankful for their presence."</li><li>Headliners: "People who are really moving the culture and who there's a really strong spotlight on them."</li></ol>

While the curatorial team makes the final decisions, MDQ noted that they actively seek insights from trusted sources within the music scene to identify emerging talent.

Joshua Baraka performs 'NANA' with Bien at Blankets & Wine on September 28, 2025

"We call members of the community who we've found are real music people. We call them about this artist and this artist and they tell you things and we're like perfect, (let's) put that together," she shared.

Despite this community consultation, Ndonga was clear that the final lineup is not, and cannot be, a public vote.

The primary goal is to create <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/entertainment/music/long-wait-for-joshua-baraka-peaks-with-bien-maya-amolo-and-mr-tee-2025092911594321168">a cohesive and high-quality event experience </a>where all elements work together.

Gloria Munga during We Are Nubia's debut performance at Blankets & Wine

"What we're very sensitive to is, curation is not democratic. You can crowdsource, but it's not democratic," Ndonga stated.

"Because all the things have to come together. The buffet has to buffet. All these artists put together have to be able to tell the story of that time and have to be able to build momentum for each other as you go from performance to performance to performance."

While the process involves listening to community tastemakers and analysing data, the final decision rests with a curatorial team that has to ensure every artist contributes to a high-quality show for the audience.

Blankets & Wine founder and Creative Director Muthoni  Ndonga, alias Muthoni Drummer Queen

Ever wondered what it takes to perform at Blankets & Wine? Blankets & Wine founder Muthoni Ndonga breaks down the 'don't call us, we'll call you' policy, explaining what it takes for artists to get selected and why a 2 pm slot is as important as 10 pm.

'Don't call us': MDQ reveals secret to performing at Blankets & Wine

Muthoni Ndonga, the founder and Creative Director of Blankets &amp; Wine, has denied recent reports and online speculation suggesting the popular festival brand is facing a lawsuit.

Speaking at a media event held at Nairobi Street Kitchen on October 29, 2025, Ndonga addressed the controversy that erupted <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/entertainment/music/long-wait-for-joshua-baraka-peaks-with-bien-maya-amolo-and-mr-tee-2025092911594321168">following the September 28 edition of Blankets &amp; Wine</a>, which was met with significant public criticism online.

Ndonga clarified the situation regarding a complaint reportedly filed with the Competition Authority of Kenya (CAK).

"We actually saw someone on Twitter (X) said they had filed a complaint to Competition authority, I believe?" Ndonga stated, recounting the genesis of the rumour.

"And so, we waited to hear from the Competition Authority, we waited to hear what the complaint is, and we haven't heard what the complaint is."

She further explained that despite the public claims, no formal case had been initiated.

"They (CAK) receive thousands of vexatious complaints, and if you do make a complaint you have to back up your complaint, and in 40 days or 30 days. Today was the lapse of the 30 days, so, they don't have a full-on complaint, there is no investigation, there is no suing."

Ndonga also turned her attention to the media's portrayal of the situation, questioning the motivations behind certain reports.

Blankets & Wine founder and Creative Director Muthoni Ndonga, alias Muthoni Drummer Queen

"I think what's pissing me off about this story is the intent behind it. And there's intent on multiple parts," she asserted.

While agreeing that aggrieved customers have the right to recourse, stating, "The person who feels 'ok, I didn't get what I wanted' is well within their rights to do anything that they want, to seek redress," she also critically examined the framing of the story in reporting.

"But the person who then reports that story, leads to this kind of perception, that we're (Blankets &amp; Wine brand) being sued for millions and millions of shillings, um, I wonder what the intent there (was)," she pondered, implying a deliberate effort to misrepresent the situation for sensationalist purposes, despite the absence of an actual lawsuit.

<h3>Kenya's takedown culture - "We want you to suffer"</h3>

Ndonga concluded by reflecting on what she perceives as a prevailing societal attitude contributing to the negativity.

Blankets and Wine founder Muthoni Drummer Queen

"There's something I find quite strange about that. Our desire, our takedown culture. We're gonna take you down. We want you to suffer, we want to punish you," she theorised, suggesting that a pervasive 'takedown culture' among Kenyans fuels the desire for public condemnation and suffering rather than constructive engagement.

Blankets & Wine founder and Creative Director Muthoni Drummer Queen at a past Blankets & Wine Festival

Following weeks of online criticism and reports of legal action, Blankets & Wine founder Muthoni Ndonga has dismissed claims the brand is being sued, clarifying the status of a formal complaint and questioning the 'intent' behind the negative reports.

Blankets & Wine: 'Nobody is suing us'

Amos Robi

Blankets and Wines once again delivered an unforgettable experience during its July 2023 edition.

Since its inception in 2008, the renowned Nairobi festival has continuously showcased the best of African music, serving as a platform for the discovery, promotion, and celebration of African talent.

With a diverse lineup of local and international artists, Blankets and Wine has become a <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/lifestyle/beauty-health/blankets-and-wine-was-all-fun-and-fashion-see-how-it-went-down-at-ngong-racecourse/6hg0rmc">staple of Nairobi's entertainment scene.</a>

The July edition of Blankets and Wine showcased electrifying performances that left the crowds craving for more. Renowned artists Nameless, BenSol, and Khaligraph Jones took the stage, captivating the audience with their talents.

Surprise appearances by Mr Lenny and Wahu added an extra element of excitement to the event. Rising stars Mutoriah, Brandy Maina, Maroon Commandos, Maya Amolo, and Coster Ojwang also wowed the crowd with their stellar performances.

Beyond the music, fashion played a significant role in the Blankets and Wines experience. Attendees took the opportunity to showcase their unique fashion sense, from <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/entertainment/music/blankets-and-wine-returns-with-december-21-kenyan-summer-ii-edition-after-3-year/lf6h2pd">contemporary streetwear to traditional African designs.</a>

Striking hats, sunglasses, and jewellery adorned the outfits, adding a touch of style to the festivities.

Food and drinks were in abundance at the venue, with various vendors offering a wide range of local and international cuisines and beverages.

Blankets and Wine went beyond being a music festival; it served as a gathering spot for individuals to connect, mingle, and have fun.

The picnic-style setting created a laid-back and welcoming ambience, as guests lounged on blankets, savouring the delicious food and beverages. It was a place to make new friends, reunite with old ones, and soak in positive energy.

The event also saw partnerships with notable brands like Spotify Africa, Absa Bank, Coke Studio Africa and Tusker Cider, among others, further enhancing the overall experience for attendees.

Absa Bank’s Charity Juma, Joan Misik, Maryanne Kagwe and Yvonne Nkirote

Blankets and Wine continues to be a celebration of creativity and individuality, where people from all walks of life come together to express themselves through music, fashion, and food.

Below are some of the photos from the event:

Absa Bank’s Charity Juma and Naomi Njagua

Music lovers and revellers have a blast at the Blankets and Wine July 2023 edition.

Mr. Lenny and Nameless perform their throwback tunes

Absa Bank’s Naomi Njagua and Maryanne Kagwe

Blankets and Wine founder Muthoni DramaQueen

Khaligraph Jones, Nameless, Mr Lenny and Coster Ojwang thrill fans at Blankets and Wine July editions

Nameless, Khaligraph Jones bring   Blankets & Wine to a standstill [Photos]

In an exciting announcement, music streaming platform Spotify has named Kenyan singer Maandy as its EQUAL Africa ambassador for the month of May.

Maandy who has been in the music scene for close to six years now has put in a lot of hard work which <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/entertainment/rapper-maandy-denies-dating-fellow-artist-breeder-lw/r67k6b4">has seen her produce two albums</a> 'Kabaya' in 2019 and 'Frisky' in 2021 which blends Trap, Hip-Hop, and Dancehall styles.

The singer while acknowledging the recognition emphasized the importance of visibility and appreciation for women in the male-dominated music industry. She highlighted the need for composure and resilience while asserting the right for women to occupy these spaces as much as men.

“Being a part of the EQUAL program means a lot to me. I feel seen and appreciated for my work as a woman in the music industry. Navigating a male-dominated industry requires composure and a lot of resilience. As intimidating as it might get sometimes, one has to realise they have just as much right to occupy these spaces as the men,” she said.

READ: <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/entertainment/celebrities/rapper-maandy-teams-up-with-breeder-lw-and-ndovu-kuu-for-sirudi-home-remix/bbk4h68">Rapper Maandy teams up with Breeder LW &amp; Ndovu Kuu for Sirudi Home Remix </a>

Phiona Okumu, Spotify's Head of Music in Sub-Saharan Africa, acknowledged Maandy's contributions to the genre and Spotify's commitment to supporting talented female artists worldwide.

Okumu expressed pride in Maandy's achievements and assures continued support for her growth as an artist.

"At Spotify, we feel privileged to be able to support and usher in the next wave of talented female artists to new audiences across the globe. We are very proud of Maandy and her contributions to the genre and will continue to support her as she grows as an artist," said Okumu.

READ:<a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/entertainment/rapper-maandy-denies-dating-fellow-artist-breeder-lw/r67k6b4"> Rapper Maandy denies dating fellow artist Breeder LW </a>

Maandy joins other Kenyan musical talents such as Muthoni DQ, <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/entertainment/celebrities/spotify-names-nikita-kering-as-november-equal-ambassador/e4l1vl7">Nikita Kering’</a> and Xeniah Manasseh who have also been Spotify EQUAL ambassadors in the past.

EQUAL Africa seeks to spotlight and amplify the voices of African female artists breaking down barriers and making waves in music by exposing their music to global audiences.

Mandy whose real name is Amanda Wambui began her musical journey at a young age, she said that pursuing music has always been her dream and she is living her dream today.

She however got into active music production in 2016 has produced hits such as 'Sirudi Home', 'Shash na Lipgloss' and 'BTW'.

Maandy draws her inspiration from musicians such as Mejja and the late Lady S.

In an exciting announcement, music streaming platform Spotify has named Kenyan singer Maandy as its EQUAL Africa ambassador for the month of May.

Maandy named ambassador for Spotify's Equal Program

Pauline Katethya

Celebrated Hip hop rapper Muthoni Drummer Queen won the Best artist in French Switzerland at the just concluded Swizz Music awards in Switzerland.

“@muthoniDQ OMG! WE WON!!!! BEST ARTIST IN FRENCH SWITZERLAND! MUTHONI DRUMMER QUEEN!!! Be dope. Stay dope. God timing!!!!” read MDQ's tweet.

The elated Ms Muthoni took to Instagram to thank everyone who has been supporting her in the music journey and for those who voted for her.

Muthoni Drummer queen wins big at Swiss Music Awards

"We want to take the moment to thank <a href="https://www.instagram.com/djcortega/" rel="noopener noreferrer">@djcortega</a>&nbsp;for connecting me to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/gregescoffey/" rel="noopener noreferrer">@gregescoffey</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/hookmichigang/" rel="noopener noreferrer">@hookmichigang</a>&nbsp;who started this journey we've been on for 6years now. Thanks to our parents, siblings and better halves for support all the way in every material and emotional form. Our Swiss Crew and Our Kenyan Art, styling and stage crews for all the support, to all the radio stations, bloggers, Bookers, festival programmers, journalists, photographers who support us by. special thanks to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/bett_marlene/" rel="noopener noreferrer">@bett_marlene</a> for making my life a lot easier ❤️ Big thanks to the fans who voted for us 🙏 We are grateful." read her post.

Her fans congratulated her for the win and commended her for the hard work.

Here are some of the comments;

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/bensoulmusic/" rel="noopener noreferrer">bensoulmusic</a> 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 Greatness!!!

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/iamkapela/" rel="noopener noreferrer">iamkapela</a> 👏👏👏👏👏👏 Go Queen, well earned and deserved!!!

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/iamchimano/" rel="noopener noreferrer">iamchimano</a> I love you!!! Congratulation’s

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/missmandii/" rel="noopener noreferrer">missmandii</a> Congratulations Queen!!!!! 💕💕😘

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/bienaimesol/" rel="noopener noreferrer">bienaimesol</a> The team stays winning. MDQ YOU ARE THE QUEEN FOR REAL

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tasha_the_eagle/" rel="noopener noreferrer">tasha_the_eagle</a> Greatness personified 🙌🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/drreign/" rel="noopener noreferrer">drreign</a> Yaas! Queening ALL decade. Well done❤️

Muthoni Drummer queen after winning at Swiss Music Awards

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/edithkimani/" rel="noopener noreferrer">edithkimani</a> 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 To the moon and beyond!

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/savarafrica/" rel="noopener noreferrer">savarafrica</a> Mama yao wote. 🙌🙌🙌

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tasha_the_eagle/" rel="noopener noreferrer">tasha_the_eagle</a> Greatness personified 🙌🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/brendawairimu_/" rel="noopener noreferrer">brendawairimu_</a> Hongera Muthoni!!!!

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/k1_charles/" rel="noopener noreferrer">k1_charles</a> Congratulations queen🔥❤️

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/joana.roots/" rel="noopener noreferrer">joana.roots</a> yaaay very happy for you! I like your art very much

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/katekibugikioko/" rel="noopener noreferrer">katekibugikioko</a> 😍💕 congratulations DQ

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/thesapientone/" rel="noopener noreferrer">thesapientone</a> Wwwooohhooo! Happy congratulations friend! 💖🍾💥🏆🏆

Muthoni Drummer Queen’s song ‘Power’ attracts the attention of American singer Toni Braxton

Congratulations Queen!

Muthoni Drummer Queen wins big at Swiss Music Awards

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