Hip-hop memories for Martse

On May 23 2022, Malawians, especially music lovers were hit with news that they did not expect. Hip-hop star Martse, real name Martin Nkhata had breathed his last. At the age of 32, Martse was just getting started. It was never expected that the talented vibrant artist would have such an abrupt end. But this was the reality.

Today, two years after his passing, the first big memorial concert takes place at Civo Stadium in Lilongwe, courtesy of Martse Foundation, an organisation set up in memory of the late rapper.

In an interview, Martse Foundation Board of Trustees chairperson Uchizi Nkhata said they want to continue with Martse’s wish to promote education as well as music.

“The whole concept is built on the desk project which Martse started shortly before he died. It costs around K90 000 to get one desk before delivery costs. If we reach out to many schools as per Martse’s wish, we need to arrange shows or do any fundraising,” he said.

Nkhata said the memorial concert, which will feature a list of some of Martse’s friends and associates, will mark the beginning of a movement in honour of the late artist whose hit songs include Nkatimo and Adiddas.

“Memorial shows can be a beautiful way of celebrating life and bringing people together. This one is extra special because of its objective which is to raise money for the desks,” he said.

Headliner of the memorial concert Fredokiss, real name Penjani Kalua described Martse as a younger version of himself.

“Martse was a younger version of myself. That is how I have always viewed him. At the memorial, I will give it my best and I believe we will have fun after some time off,” he said.

In an earlier interview, one half of the Dare Devilz, Marcus Pasanje said Martse’s talent was unmatched.

“His talent was natural. He did not struggle to come up with lyrics for his songs. It was a blessing to have worked with him on several productions,” he said.

One of Martse’s fans, Blessings Kamkondo said he hopes the memorial show will be an annual thing with other smaller shows in between.

“I would not mind attending a listening session where Martse’s music is played just to remember him. He was not your regular artist, but someone special whose music will continue to inspire and entertain us for years to come,” he said.

Another fan Marriam Banda wrote on X, formerly Twitter that Martse’s legacy goes beyond his age.

“To think that he died at such a young age is heart-breaking. But he left us with enough music that will continue to inspire us for generations to come,” she wrote.

Just days before he died, Martse wrote on his official Facebook page about his wish to help improve the quality of education in Malawi. He said he was tired of complaining and wanted to start taking an active role in helping out. Just after spelling out the plan, he got involved in a fire accident that took his life days later.

He had accompanied the post with a photo of himself and pupils at Cape Maclear Primary School in Mangochi where he had gone on holiday.

Coincidentally, the first Martse Foundation donation of desks was to the same school.

Some of the artists that have confirmed their performances today include Onesimus, Waxy K, Rhoda J, Wikise, Nepman, Provoice, Beanca, Chizmo Sting, Veda Njuchi and many more.