Bien: Marrying Chiki is the best thing that ever happened to me

Musician and songwriter Bien-Aimé Baraza has dismissed the idea of polygamy, stating that marrying Chiki Kuruka is the most rewarding experience of his life.

Speaking during an interview on Power 105.1’s Breakfast Club while on his US tour, Bien said that although polygamy is permitted both culturally and by law in Kenya, he has no interest in taking a second wife.

“Constitutionally, in Kenya, you are allowed. Do I want another wife? No, I don't,” he said, adding that Chiki deserves his full commitment.

Bien revealed he comes from a polygamous family and is the last-born of 10 siblings. “My dad has 10 kids from six different women. I'm the last of 10,” he said.

He explained that polygamy in traditional African society had a purpose and often reflected the social and economic needs of the time.

“It may not work no, but back the, it had everything to do with community and looking out for one another. In some cases, a guy was polygamous, maybe because his first wife couldn't get kids,” he said.

He added that in farming communities, large families meant more labour to work the land. “The more children you had, the more hands you had to help,” Bien explained.

Bien, who launched his solo career after Sauti Sol officially announced their split in May 2023, said Chiki has been instrumental in his journey.

He shared that the two have been together for 11 years and that Chiki has managed his career for the last two.

“When I went solo, I was like 'I think you need to manage me,’ she was like ‘okay.’ We are doing it for the home, and it's beautiful; it's by far the most rewarding experience of my life,” he said.

When asked whether he pays her for the management work, Bien responded: “In other ways,” which sparked laughter during the show.

He later clarified that in their home, there is no financial separation. “We work to build a future for us and our children,” he said, explaining that they share everything.

Bien is currently enjoying success following his USA Tour 2025, which ran from May 14 to May 26. He performed in cities including Washington, DC, Boston, New York, Atlanta, Cincinnati, Minneapolis, Dallas, and Seattle.

He was recently crowned “Best Artist in Eastern Africa” at the 2025 Trace Awards.

Bien's solo career features several popular tracks and albums, including Aluta Continua with songs like My Baby and Inauma, and his EP Bald Men Love Better, which includes Bald Men Anthem, Stamina, and Coming Home.

He also has collaborations such as My Baby with Ayra Starr, Nairobi with Marioo, and Ma Cherie (Remix) featuring Fally Ipupa.

Although currently promoting his new song Mpishi, Bien revealed that Ma Cherie remains his favourite.