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Bien explains why he no longer performs Sauti Sol’s anti-abortion song Nerea
30th November, 2025 02:30 AM
On April 21, 2015, Sauti Sol teamed up with the duo of Amos and Josh to release a hit song, Nerea, that sparked debate in the country on reproductive health.
In the song, Nerea’s boyfriend pleaded with her not to abort their pregnancy and promised to take care of the baby. The power of song was in its simplicity, as Sauti Sol, along with Amos and Josh, repeatedly emphasised specific lines to reinforce a message that resonated with the conscience of society.
Speaking on a local TV station on Saturday, November 29, 2025, the multitalented musician and songwriter Bien‑Aimé Baraza, alias Bien, reflected on why the song was composed and the reason he no longer performs it.
Bien explained that the song was composed to help address a situation that at that time was bedevilling the country. He recounted hearing numerous cases of pregnancy termination and men avoiding taking responsibility, which prompted them to drop Nerea.
“Wakati huo, people were doing crazy things; majamaa wanaruka ball. Izo vitu zilikuwa zinafanyika sana at that time,” Bien explained.
Change of mind
However, Bien explained that he no longer performs the song since he believes the message has been conveyed and things are now different.
He highlighted the development of family planning, detailing that it can now help families plan accordingly.
“Hio ngoma siimbangi sikuizi, ilipitwa na wakati, hio message ilipitwa na wakati. Saizi nimepata different views. Saizi siamini ivo, family plan guys,” Bien emphasised.
Sauti Sol’s fate
On the fate of Sauti Sol, Bien also clarified that the group did not break but the different band members went to pursue solo careers.
“We have never broken up. Sauti Sol said we are taking a sabbatical, and it is very cordial. Si kama group zingine ukiskia watu wamekosana ni mangumi inatembea hapo, hakuna. Ata leo asubuhi nimekuwa rehearsal na Sauti Sol,” Bien stated.
With Willis Chimano, Savara Mudigi and Polycarp Otieno pursuing different music career paths, Bien hinted that Sol Fest, a music festival dedicated to celebrating and promoting African musical talent, will continue bringing them together once a year to allow their fans to relive the experience.
“However, every year we have Sol Fest, and we play in that festival. I realised that in playing Sol Fest, we are building a platform for artists to come and express themselves,” Bien explained.
