Bien-Aimé Alusa Baraza, popularly known as Bien, is a Kenyan singer, songwriter, and guitarist recognized for his significant influence in East African music. Born on October 28, 1987, in Nairobi, he rose to fame as the lead vocalist and main songwriter of the acclaimed Afropop band Sauti Sol before pursuing a successful solo career. His French name, “Bien-Aimé,” translates to “well-loved” or “beloved,” reflecting the strong bond he shares with his fans.
Profile Summary
| Full name | Bien-Aimé Alusa Baraza |
| Date of birth | October 28, 1987 |
| Place of birth | Nairobi, Kenya |
| Nationality | Kenyan |
| Partner | Chiki Kuruka (married in March 2020) |
| Children | Private |
| Occupations | Singer, Songwriter, Guitarist, Music Executive |
| Labels | Sol Generation Records, Sauti Sol Entertainment |
| Net worth | Approximately KSh 30 million (US$ 2-4 million) |
Early Life and Education
Born and raised in Nairobi, Bien came from a large family with a polygamous background, his father having six wives. Nancy Makokha Baraza, the former Deputy Chief Justice of Kenya, is his stepmother.
From an early age, he showed a passion for music, telling his cousin at six years old that he aspired to be a musician.
He attended Upper Hill School, where he formed an a cappella group called “Voices in the Light” with future Sauti Sol members Willis Chimano and Savara Mudigi. He later graduated in 2011 from United States International University Africa (USIU-Africa) with a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Media Studies.
Career
Sauti Sol Era (2005-2023)
In 2005, Bien co-founded Sauti Sol alongside Willis and Savara, with Polycarp Otieno joining later. The band’s name combines “Sauti” (Swahili for voice) and “Sol” (Spanish for sun), meaning “voices in the sun.”
As the lead singer and principal songwriter, Bien helped the group achieve widespread success and critical acclaim. Their albums include Mwanzo (2008), Sol Filosofia (2011), Live and Die in Afrika (2015), Afrikan Sauce (2019), and Midnight Train (2020).
Sauti Sol earned numerous nominations and awards, and in 2023, they announced a hiatus to focus on solo projects.
Solo Journey
Bien’s solo career took off in 2021 when he signed a three-year contract with Sol Generation Records, a label he helped establish. His debut EP, “Bald Men Love Better,” featured the hit “Mbwe Mbwe,” which amassed over 12 million views.
In 2023, he released his first solo album, “Alusa Why Are You Topless?”, which became an immediate success within East Africa, featuring collaborations with notable artists such as Ayra Starr and Ms Banks.
Personal Life
Bien is married to Chiki Kuruka, a fitness coach and choreographer of Nigerian-Swiss heritage. They met in 2014 and married in 2020. Chiki also manages his career and choreography.
Bien has two children from a previous relationship but keeps his family life private. He promotes progressive parenting and is open to taking on a stay-at-home dad role.
Bien Net Worth
Bien’s net worth is estimated at around 30 million Kenyan shillings (approximately 2 to 4 million USD), accumulated through his music career and entrepreneurial ventures including his record label and hospitality businesses.
Discography
With Sauti Sol
- Mwanzo (2008)
- Sol Filosofia (2011)
- Sauti Sol EP (2012)
- Live and Die in Afrika (2015)
- Afrikan Sauce (2019)
- Midnight Train (2020)
Solo
- Bald Men Love Better (EP, 2021)
- Alusa Why Are You Topless? (2023)
- Alusa Why Are You Topless? (Deluxe, 2024)
Notable singles include “Mbwe Mbwe,” “Inauma,” “My Baby,” “Too Easy,” “Wahala,” and “Nairobi.”
Awards and Recognitions
Bien has earned numerous awards, such as a Grammy certificate for his songwriting on Burna Boy’s “Twice as Tall” album (2021), and accolades including Best Artist Eastern Africa at the 2025 Trace Awards. With Sauti Sol, he won the MTV Europe Music Award for Best African Act (2014) and several other regional awards.
Bien’s musical journey from a school a cappella singer to an internationally respected artist illustrates his dedication and the impact he continues to have on African music.
