Luhya performer Sokoto 039 has addressed a common misconception surrounding his work, emphasizing that not every Luhya content creator should be labeled as a comedian.
In a passionate statement, Sokoto explained that while some of his performances may trigger laughter, comedy is never his primary intention.
“Not every Luhya content is a comedy and not every Luhya content creator is a comedian or comedienne. I get disturbed when people call me a comedian,” he said.
The Difference Between Comedy and His Craft
According to Sokoto 039, comedy is a professional entertainment format made up of jokes, sketches, and humorous acts designed to make an audience laugh. His own creative approach, however, goes beyond entertainment.
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Primary goal → delivering a message with social impact
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Secondary outcome → humor may arise, but it’s not the main focus
He insists that calling him a comedian does not fully capture his artistic identity.
Who Is Sokoto 039?
Sokoto describes himself as:
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An actor
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An orator
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An author
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A poet
He urges fans and event organizers to recognize him under these titles instead of reducing his work to comedy alone.
Art With a Message
The performer highlighted that each piece of art he produces is message-driven, designed to inspire thought, spark conversations, and address societal issues.
“When you interact with my art, don’t just laugh—pay attention to the message in it,” he noted.
For Sokoto 039, the true value of his work lies in the impact it creates in society, not just in the laughter it may bring.
Mislabeling Hurts the Craft
He admitted feeling misunderstood when audiences or organizers refer to him as a comedian:
“Actually, when someone calls me a comedian, I tell myself, ‘This person doesn’t know me.’”
This statement underscores his desire to be respected for the depth and diversity of his art.
The Bigger Picture
Sokoto’s remarks reflect a broader issue in Kenya’s creative industry where artists from diverse genres are often boxed into comedy simply because their content entertains. His clarification is a call for audiences to appreciate art in its full spectrum of meaning and purpose.
Conclusion
Sokoto 039 is more than just a performer; he is a voice for society through poetry, storytelling, and performance art. While laughter may occasionally accompany his work, his central mission is to deliver powerful messages that resonate beyond the stage.