What Is The Shake & Bake Series?
The Shake & Bake series is a dynamic initiative that unites music producers with rare, underrepresented music from Kenya, fostering creativity through monthly sample-flip challenges. Hosted by Solidarity Studios, the series offers producers the chance to showcase their talents while celebrating the rich music of Nairobi, Kenya.
Open Beat Night
Each month, a curated demo sample pack, sourced from Solidarity Studios’ record collection donated from Kenyan, is released to participating producers. The producers are tasked with flipping samples of the records—transforming them into new beats that reflect their individual styles while honoring the original music.
But there's more to it than just making beats. The challenge culminates in a performance during Open Beat Night, where producers can showcase their creations in front of a supportive community of music lovers. It's a chance for producers to demonstrate their skills, connect with others, and bring rare Kenyan sounds to new audiences.
What Happens After the Challenge?
Once Open Beat Night concludes, the current demo sample pack is removed, making way for the next month's challenge. However, for those interested in exploring further, the full version of that month’s sample pack, along with the complete original song, is released across all major streaming platforms.
In recognition of the hard work by participating producers, every track created during the Shake & Bake challenge is compiled into a collaborative mixtape. This mixtape, too, is made available on streaming platforms, giving producers an opportunity to reach a broader audience with their unique interpretations of Kenyan music.
Upholding Culture, Elevating Producers
The Shake & Bake series isn’t just about flipping samples. It’s about upholding Kenya’s musical heritage by introducing its rich sounds to new listeners and ensuring its legacy for future generations. By connecting talented producers with these rare gems, the series helps create a bridge between cultures, fostering appreciation for music that might otherwise remain unheard.
Moreover, the series gives producers a valuable platform to showcase their abilities, offering them visibility and recognition through collaborative projects like the mixtapes, Open Beat Night performances, and of course, networking with likeminded creatives.
How You Can Support
The Shake & Bake series thrives thanks to the continuous support from the community. Donations help Solidarity Studios maintain this unique platform, providing opportunities for music producers (artists, creatives, ect) and sharing rare music with the world. If you believe in the power of music to connect community and culture, consider donating to support the cause or sharing the series with friends. Thank you for being part of this creative movement.