I am original, talented
Afro-pop gospel musician Enock Kabuli has over the years done all he can in spreading the word of God through music. In as far as he has attracted people’s attention with his compositions, his stage name, Mwana wa Igwe, which has Nigerian connotations has also been a subject of debate with some people questioning his authenticity as an artist. Our Staff Reporter BRIAN ITAI, caught up with him and here are the excepts:
Q
: Why did you adopt the stage name, Mwana wa Igwe?
A
: It’s a symbolic name that depicts my faith. My father in heaven is King and I am his son hence the name Mwana wa Igwe.
Q
: Don’t you think this name, given its Nigerian connection, dilutes your identity?
A
: Yes! That has been the debate since I came into the limelight. But I personally do not think it should be viewed as such. Music is diverse and I believe the discourse transcends Malawi or Nigeria. It is universal. We use English names, way of dressing etc but that does not make one English.
Q
: How does this nickname help in enhancing your image and presence as an artist?
A
: Well that is a tough one. But I believe that is what has made people fall in love with my music instantly. My music resonated well with what they were already used to, which is Nigerian music and films. So, yes I gave people what they wanted and yearned for. However, there are still some who say I am not authentic for embracing another culture and fusing it with my music.
Q
: What do you make of the accusations that you are not authentic? Are the people justified to call you like that or not?
A
:The accusations are unfounded and unsubstantiated because I believe music is a fluid phenomenon. Music redefines itself through time and space. That said, the notion of authenticity is subjective. I would rather strive for relevance in the industry than authenticity.
Q
: So far, how many albums do you have under your belt?
A
: I have two albums. The first one was Dalaiva which I released in 2014 and Wachepera Kaba which is my last release and it dropped in 2018.
Q
: How have people responded to your music thus far?
A
: I can say the response has been very good and encouraging. Ever since I started I have been well supported I would say. Wherever I have been for live performances, the response has been overwhelming. And even the feedback from people has been nothing but warm.
Q
: What has your music journey been like?
A
: The terrain has not been all rosy. It has at times been a bumpy road with a lot of thorns along the way. I was on the verge of quitting music altogether in 2017 but God has been on my side. He has enabled me to withstand all the challenges that were thrown along my way. I know I cannot see all the rewards for my persistent efforts today but I surely believe that this hard work will bring rewards. One day I shall reap bountifully the fruits of this investment.
Q
: What would you define as the secret for one to crack it on the local music scene?
A
: You have to give it all you have. That means giving 150 percent effort. So it is a combination of hard work, being consistent and being up to date with new styles and other genres of music for you to stay relevant.
Q
: It is 2020. What should your fans expect from you this year?
A
: Definitely they should expect something new from me. I have my first single titled Dekha ready whose music video will be released in a few days to come. The plan is to release an album this year and its official launch should take place sometime in September.
