In a raw and unfiltered appeal that has sent shockwaves through the Kenyan entertainment industry, legendary rapper Dennis Kaggia—better known as DNA—has sensationally claimed he is being “cut out” of major music events due to a shadow campaign of blacklisting and industry politics.
The ‘Banjuka’ hitmaker took to social media to deliver a desperate plea to show promoters, begging for a slot in the upcoming New Year’s Eve crossover celebrations after being sidelined from recent “Old School” festivals.
DNA, a titan of Kenya’s hip-hop golden era, suggested that his absence from the stage isn’t due to a lack of talent, but rather a deliberate effort by rivals and organisers to keep him in the dark.
“Promoters, promoters, promoters, naomba kazi ya 31st [I am asking for work on the 31st],” he pleaded in a viral video.
“Have you noticed I’m always cut out of Old School shows? Even the big one that happened recently, I wasn’t there.”
The rapper did not mince words when explaining his theory for the exclusion.
He alleged that long-standing grudges and “whispered narratives” by rival artists have poisoned his reputation among event planners.
DNA claimed that some of his peers actively ensure he is not booked, fearing that his legendary high-energy live performance would outshine everyone else on the bill.
“Number one, sijuangi kulamba [I don’t know how to bootlick],” he declared defiantly.
“Number two, I had a beef with one guy who seemingly knows everyone and is in every event—so he makes sure I’m cut.”
@dna_misterdreams NAOMBA KAZI 🙏🏾 TELL A PROMOTER TO TELL A PROMOTER TO TELL A PROMOTER TO TELL A PROMOTER TO TELL A PROMOTER 📢 #christmas #dnamisterdreams #2026 #happpynewyear #kenyantiktok🇰🇪 ♬ original sound – DNA_MISTER DREAMS
In a bold self-assessment, he added: “I dominate everyone on stage. Except maybe Redsan, Kenrazy, and Jua Cali on a good day. Apart from them, I cover everyone else.”
Despite the explosive claims of sabotage, DNA insisted he is not a “diva” and is ready to work under humble conditions.
He revealed that he has ditched the rockstar lifestyle—noting that he no longer drinks alcohol—and maintains a very modest rider.
All he is looking for, he says, is a “polite six-figure” payment and a fair chance to perform for his fans, whether in Kenya or elsewhere in Africa.
“I give the best shows. I don’t even drink, I don’t want complicated riders. I’m just asking for a show… a polite six-figure. Please hit my DMs,” he concluded.
The rapper’s public “job application” has ignited a fierce debate online, with fans calling out promoters for neglecting the pioneers who built the Kenyan music scene in favour of “clout-driven alliances.”
