Spotify has launched Greasy Tunes Nairobi, a 12-day residency at Heltz House running from July 15 to 26, designed to translate the city’s streaming habits into live, communal experiences.
Spotify data from June 2026 showed that listeners aged 18-24 accounted for more than half of all streams in Nairobi, with listening peaking in the evening. The program was built to reflect how young Nairobians use music to unwind and connect.
“Greasy Tunes brings the energy people experience on Spotify into a shared physical space,” said Agnes Opondo, Artist & Label Partnerships Lead for East Africa. “The program reflects how music already connects Nairobi’s young listeners, whether through food, conversation, creativity, or community.”
Week One: Starters
The first week explored the intersection of sound and culture, turning Heltz House into a daytime café and event hub.
- Kitchen Opening Party with The BAG, a Nairobi music and culture platform
- Karibu Night hosted by creative collective Studio 18, featuring a fashion showcase and live performance by BURUKLYN BOYZ
- Live podcast recordings from Culture Club with producer Eric Musyoka and The 30 Percent Podcast
- Performances: The Fisherman’s Experience and ADUMA Presents
- Smocha Sundays, combining gospel music, community, and a live football watch party
Week Two: Mains
The second week shifted focus to music’s role in creative practice.
- Gufy’s Room: Poetry, Music & Storytelling with poet and filmmaker Gufy
- Workshop with Kasi Flavour championing women in music
- Fan event with rapper and songwriter Nyashinski
- EQUAL workshop and showcase with community platform Ongeza Volume
- Comedy night with The Standup Collective
- Strictly Soul: Closing Party
