Many times, musicians’ performances are planned with meticulous rehearsals, but Mikozi’s latest YouTube series Gululu is breaking the routine by showcasing the raw, unfiltered talent of artists in unexpected settings.
The series surprise musicians in casual public spaces, requesting impromptu live performances accompanied by a guitarist.
So far, the series has featured artists such as Saint Realist who lauded the concept for pushing artists out of their comfort zones.
“As artists, we are entertainers and people expect a lot from us. Although Gululu series shocks you at first because you are unsure if the performance will come out as good, it is an exciting challenge,” he said in an interview yesterday.
The Una hit maker added that while it is unexpected, the initiative allows fans to enjoy authentic and raw talent.
“It is not every day you are challenged to perform in such an unpredictable setting, it reminds about what you do. It is an amazing experience, knowing you can still give fans a good performance,” he said.
Another artist, Zonke Too Fresh, who was once approached but didn’t perform on the day due to other reasons, said the platform is good for fan engagement and gives them a chance to see what artists are truly capable of.
“It is a good but also unique platform for artists and fan engagement,” he said.
Artist Rashley, who performed on Gululu described the experience as both surprising and fulfilling.
“It was an incredible experience. At first I was taken aback, but I quickly recognised the platform’s value for artists. Despite being unprepared, I performed and was satisfied and cherished every moment, ” he said.
Other artists who have been featured on the series are Kell Kay, Rashley and Praise Umali.
Gululu host Kelvin Mtambo said the idea was inspired by debates among music fans that many artists rely on auto-tune or AI to record their music.
“We wanted fans to see and appreciate the raw talent their favourite artists have and prove them wrong. The feedback has been overwhelming as fans are thrilled to see what their artists can do outside a studio or off stage,” he said.
Mtambo also noted that while some artists refuse when approached, claiming they are unprepared, others have embraced the challenge and have delivered good live performances. Fans have also welcomed the concept, Chimwemwe Nthala from Kazomba in Mzimba saying: “It is mind-blowing to see artists perform without all the glamour and preparation. We see their true talent and it makes you appreciate them even more.”
