Malawian reggae artist makes global waves
Reggae artist Sally Mwalr has become a global sensation after his song Akhale emerged number one in a poll that Jamaican Power Jam Radio conducted.
The Malawian’s song came out tops in a three-horse race that also had a song from Jamaica and another from the United Kingdom. Following his feat, the song has enjoyed airplay in several African countries, Europe and United States of America.
Yesterday the artist was also featured in a radio interview on Caribbean Power Jam Radio by Da Gallery’s Benjamin B which was streamed live worldwide.
Here at home, the song has been adopted by an organisation Girl Child Concern, which looks at issues of young girls and runs a campaign of keeping girls in school. The song will be used as a theme for their Aphunzire Campaign which rolls out this month.
The song is about parents who impose careers and lifestyles on their children without regard of their dreams. The song offers a reminder that it is vital to leave children to be what they are.
In an interview yesterday, the reggae artist said his United Kingdom friend, a DJ, submitted his song to the poll. He said Jamaican Power Radio receives a lot of songs, which are selected based on their criteria.
Mwalr said his feat in the poll has exposed him to a new audience and given his music a global reach.
“We have laid a foundation that will guide our way going forward. I believe it will not be easy for my next releases to breakthrough on such a platform,” he said.
At the moment seven of his songs such as Good People, Write My Own, Tears, Crime and Justice and Akhale are enjoying airplay on Maruleng FM in South Africa. His music is also featuring in Zambia and Kenya.
The Lilongwe-based artist recorded his first song in 2011 and released his first album All I Ever Dream in 2012 immediately after he finished his secondary school education. He said being a musician is all he ever wanted.
Mwalr said: “During my first day at school, when I was asked what I wanted to be I said I want to be a musician. It is a typical story of passion. I have done this all my life in every unimaginable way.” South African DJ SizweZakwe said of the song: “I can’t get enough of it. Even my children and wife love it. I am very sure my listeners would love it too.”
