Kenyan musician Otile Brown (real name Jacob Obunga) has dismissed allegations that he performed at Brian Chira’s burial for online attention.
Brown performed one of his songs ‘One Call’ which was reportedly Chira’s favourite from his vast collection.
Speaking in a local interview after the emotional send off, the musician disclosed that he was more or less a stranger to the late TikToker.
“What does my album have to do with the deceased? If you know me, I’m just showing nothing but love at the end of the day.
“I don’t even know him personally because the attention was brought to me by the fans when I was doing a live with a Tanzanian blogger when people insisted that I should sing the song,” he explained.
Curiosity prompted Otile Brown to look into the requests from Chira’s fans after his demise mid-March in an accident. True to their word, comments on his song ‘One Call’ on YouTube overwhelmingly featured Chira’s name.
“After doing research I realized that he was a huge fan of my songs and right if you go to YouTube and check out the song, all the comments are about him.
“It’s not me, it’s the people they are showing love and all that. Normally those who know me know I never come out for anybody, it’s just who I am. So I was just showing love,” he added.
Brown was quick to acknowledge that Chira’s influence made a significant impact, as the song had now surpassed 4.9 million views on YouTube since its debut a year ago.
“What Chira is doing to #OneCall is just unbelievable. His influence shines brightly, and his love is deeply felt. Sending heartfelt love and prayers… may he rest in peace. I’d be honoured to perform the song at his funeral to help make his memory everlasting.”
Chira was laid to rest at his family home in Githunguri, Kiambu County on Tuesday, March 26 in an event that attracted hundreds of social media users as well as leaders.
Mumias East Member of Parliament (MP) Peter Salasya, who is active on TikTok, graced the occasion.
He eulogized Brian Chira as an inspiration to the young generation.
“No politician can pull the numbers I am seeing here today. Even I cannot believe my eyes,” Salasya said.
The lawmaker also offered the bereaved family a token of KSh40,000.
