By Joe Aura (aurajoe6@gmail.com)
Nairobi offers a wide variety of niche events, from art and music to specialised workshops and immersive cultural experiences. One such event is Spectra, a celebration of music and culture by WhoWhatWhere Magazine in collaboration with Friends of the Artist (FOTA).
The third edition of Spectra was hosted at The Rift, Manohar Centre, on 20th December 2025, exactly a year after the Spectra Femme Edition—a celebration of womanhood. The R&B-themed Spectra Vol. 3 featured an impressive lineup including Maya Amolo, Ankh, N’Jiru, Thulanii, Monzo, Burugu, Trent, Zowie Kengocha, and Ashe.
I arrived at The Rift around 11 p.m., and the place was already buzzing. The rooftop venue at Manohar Centre in Westlands offered an open, intimate atmosphere with a clear view of the Nairobi skyline. FOTA and WhoWhatWhere did a commendable job curating a gritty, dark, yet vibrant space, while also ensuring guests were comfortably accommodated when rain threatened to interrupt the night. Downstairs, a mini art pop-up showcased treats, fashion, and even a PlayStation setup, adding to the layered experience.
Musically, the live performances were outstanding. Maya Amolo and N’Jiru delivered soulful, intimate sets that resonated deeply with the audience. The open setup allowed the crowd to experience the performances up close, creating a shared emotional connection. Big Yasa joined N’Jiru on stage for a surprise performance of Tempo, which electrified the room and became one of the night’s highlights. The DJs in between sets maintained the mood with well-curated selections, ensuring a seamless musical journey throughout the night. The organisers were also visibly present and attentive, consistently checking in on attendees.
One of the most memorable interactions I had that night was with a fellow introvert—something I immediately connected with. Her outfit sparked our conversation: a leather jacket layered over dungarees, black skin-tight inners, and a cool hat resting atop her beaded braids. She shared that she was a medical researcher who had just completed her degree, and that she spends much of her time reading. Attending the FOTA event alone, she explained, was a personal challenge she had intentionally set for herself.
On a personal level, attending events has not always been easy for me. I struggled with self-esteem and anxiety growing up, and social spaces can still feel overwhelming. However, I have been deliberately pushing myself to step out of my shell, and Spectra Vol. 3 proved to be a worthwhile experience. As FOTA’s tagline reminds us, “everyone is invited.”
People are drawn to niche events like Spectra Vol. 3 for several compelling reasons.
First, there is the power of authentic connection. Spectra brings together individuals who share common interests and passions, fostering a strong sense of community and belonging. It creates a space where like-minded people can meet, exchange ideas, and form meaningful relationships that often lead to lasting friendships and collaborations.
There is also the appeal of unique experiences and discovery. Spectra events are intentionally intimate, allowing attendees to deeply engage with specific cultures, sounds, and artistic expressions. The experience often introduces audiences to new artists, ideas, and perspectives they may not encounter elsewhere.
Another key factor is personal growth. Participating in carefully curated events like Spectra can spark self-development—learning new sounds, building confidence, and gaining creative inspiration. The alternative, non-judgmental environment makes it easier for individuals to step outside their comfort zones.
Niche events also serve as a form of mental escape. They provide a break from routine and work-related stress, allowing people to be present, relaxed, and emotionally refreshed.
Finally, attending such events helps support local culture. Spectra directly contributes to sustaining Nairobi’s creative ecosystem and offers a platform for emerging talent. Showing up to a Spectra event means becoming, quite literally, a friend of the artist.
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