Dagoz Bar: A Raw, Unfiltered Artists' Venue

An approximate five-minute walk from the Dagoretti Corner Bus Stage leads you to Dagoz - a quirky artists' venue. Viewed from outside, it seems like a nondescript space - but a plain pastel-coloured door opens up into an eclectic artistic space, where bright yellow dashikis form the backdrop of the stage. Some abstract and impressionist art by SheepGoat Ngene are either hung or drawn on the walls. It is interesting to note that sometimes SheepGoat (or other artists) paint or draw live on site, against the backdrop of music and Dagoz vibes.

On busy nights - most nights are anyway, Dagoz is packed. Patrons and newcomers fill the small space; either standing or sitting on the barstools. They are no doubt drawn to the unique musical sound the space curates. Local bands, either upcoming or established, are hosted at Dagoz five nights a week, making it one of the most active live music spaces in Nairobi since it opened its doors in March 2018.

In their younger years, Dave Otieno and Steve Kuwinda, the co-founders of the space, were both musicians. The concept for Dagoz was influenced by a UK jazz club where Steve worked as a book-keeper. It is there that his fascination for small spaces where musicians are free to express themselves grew. Dave Otieno is a sound engineer, guitarist and music producer with The Nile Project Band. Their idea was to create a unique events space run by musicians, which artists and music lovers alike would enjoy.

The venue has hosted a number of musicians - including Winyo, Kombo and Afro Simba Band, Michel Ongaro, Juma Tutu, Labdi Ommes, Achieng Atieno, Beraccah Kisia and many more.

Apart from music performances, Dagoz also holds indie film and documentary screenings, and the Dagoz style nyama choma and cheap beers on offer make it an ideal venue to unwind or jam with the musicians on stage after some drinks.

Dagoz Live Music Guide:

Wednesday - Acoustic Wednesdays

Thursday - The Dagojam

The Super Friday Question with (various artists)

Saturday - Live Saturdays

Sunday - The Dagojam