Alternative sounds find stage at Lilongwe Summer Concerts

In the Malawi music industry, the spotlight is often cast on a select few musicians and leaves many equally talented artists working on alternative genres of music on the sidelines.

The Lilongwe Summer Concerts, now in third edition, have become a platform for artists changing the narrative by creating a stage for musicians whose names rarely appear on the billboards of major shows.

Scheduled for tomorrow at Bumby Road Brewery in Area 10 in the capital city, the concert is a platform dedicated to alternative sounds and space where musicians outside the mainstream can be heard, appreciated and celebrated.

In an interview, the concert’s organiser George Kalukusha said the initiative was conceived to provide a platform for alternative sound musicians who are not usually featured in main shows to showcase their talent.

“There are a lot of musicians who may at the moment not make it onto the big stage, but work tirelessly to perfect their craft. Some are even getting international recognition and streaming their music on proper platforms. As such, this platform is for them to be heard and seen too,” he said.

Kalukusha said most musicians’ work qualify as exportable talent and that the local platform seeks to also expose them to the local audience.

Over the years, interest has grown, with more musicians seeking to be part of the platform as it builds its reputation. He said beyond the performances, the concert has also become a discovery space for audiences.

“We have had instances where people realised certain talents they didn’t know existed and the feedback has been positive from both fans and the artists themselves,” said Kalukusha.

Currently, the most popular genres in the country include Afropiano, Amapiano, Afro beats, hip-hop, reggae and dancehall, jazz and gospel. But there are other alternative sounds done by different musicians.

Indie-folk musician Eliya Black, who is set to perform at this year’s event, said the platform offers rare opportunities for artists like him whose music often does not fit into the local mainstream, adding that while many events cater to other common sounds, this concert provides a much-needed space for alternative genres.

“I believe this is the perfect platform for the kind of music I do. It aligns well with my style because not many shows accommodate such music,” he said.

Although this will be his first appearance at the concert, Black said he is confident that the experience will allow him to connect with the right audience noting that past editions have featured musicians with a similar sound, which reassures him that his music will resonate with those in attendance.

This year’s line-up will feature musicians George Kalukusha, Eliyah Black, Yaankho, Chmba and Oana.

With its family-friendly approach, the event will also feature activities such as games and face painting for children and a safe relaxed atmosphere for audience