Legendary Kenyan rapper Dennis Kaggia, famously known as DNA, has once again triggered the conversation about artiste exclusion into the spotlight after openly appealing to show promoters to include him in 2025 crossover events.
Through a raw and emotional Insta-stories update video, the Maswali Ya Polisi star tried to explain why his name is consistently missing from old-school themed line-ups, yet he remains one of the most seasoned live performers in the country.
DNA argued that crossover shows, which are designed to celebrate Kenya’s music history, should prioritise artistes who actively built that legacy.
According to the rapper, his prolonged absence from major stages is the result of deep-seated industry politics.
He claimed that lingering beefs, quiet blacklisting and whispered narratives by rivals have played a major role in keeping him out of lucrative events.
DNA claimed that some artistes and organisers deliberately avoid booking him out of fear that he would dominate the shared stages.
“Promoters, promoters, promoters naomba kazi ya 31st, naomba kazi ya kurukisha mwaka 31st. Naomba, naomba, sijui kama mushawahi notice show za Old skul me hukuwa nimekatwa nje. Hata hii show kubwa ilihappen juzi sikuwa. Na walahi maboy hata me hupea mashow walinipaka, let me tell you why hamunionagi kwa show mingi za old skul,” he said.
The outspoken rapper also turned the spotlight inward, alleging that even associates within his own circles have occasionally failed to back him.
He claimed that personal interests and competition have often outweighed loyalty, costing him deals and show opportunities over the years.
DNA did not shy away from admitting that his blunt personality may have rubbed some organisers the wrong way.
He stated that he cannot be pressured into “clout-driven alliances” or forced praise, a trait he believes has made him an inconvenient choice for some promoters.
In remarks that quickly went viral, DNA confidently declared that only a handful of Kenyan artistes can rival him during live performances, insisting that his energy, delivery and crowd control remain unmatched.
“Number one, sijuangi kulamba. Number two, hiki kijama nilibeef nacho kumbe kinajuana na kila mtu na kiko kwa event zote. So ye humake sure nimekwatwa. Number three, me hufunika kila mtu kwa show. Except maybe Redsan, Kenrazy and maybe Juacali on a good day, apart from hao waseem. Me hufunika kila mtu kwa show,” DNA added.
His bold assertion reignited online debate about performance standards within Kenya’s entertainment scene.
Despite the strong claims, DNA emphasised that his expectations are reasonable.
He disclosed that he maintains a simple rider, does not drink alcohol and only seeks a fair six-figure payment.
He also expressed willingness to perform within Kenya or elsewhere in Africa, provided logistics are manageable.
“I give the best shows, hata sikunywagi pombe hata sitakagi vitu riders. So, juu Mungu hakulagi nyama kwa nyumba ya mtu naomba show. A polite six figure. Somewhere in Africa or not so far from Africa because of easiness for travels. Nimemaliza kujitetea, nimeomba show ya 31st. Please hit me on my DMs,” DNA stated.
The appeal has since drawn widespread reaction online, with many fans rallying behind the veteran rapper.
His supporters and other argued that DNA’s continued exclusion from crossover shows undermines the very purpose of events meant to honour Kenya’s old-school music culture.
DNA remains one of the most recognisable figures from Kenya’s hip-hop golden era, with a catalogue of hits that still evoke nostalgia among longtime fans.
His remarks mirror recent concerns raised by singer Iyanii, who also accused event organisers of sidelining him despite consistent output.
After publicly airing his frustrations, Iyanii later began securing major bookings, an outcome many now hope will serve as a blueprint for DNA’s long-awaited return to major stages.
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