Renditions bring music new lease of life

In recent years, Malawi music industry has witnessed a flurry of artists remaking old  songs and incorporating traditional children’s songs into their own.

This is a trend which has sparked a debate among music enthusiasts. Is the industry making progress by revisiting the past, or is it merely recycling old ideas?

Artists like Saint and Macelba, Zeze, Tay Grin and Maskal, Emmie Deebo and Qaso have released songs which affirm this movement, bringing back the sounds of yesteryears in a modern music context.

Saint and Macelba’s collaboration on the remake of Collins Bandawe’s Tchekera Maluzi made waves in the music industry.

Originally a hit from the past, the song was given a modern twist characterised by Macelba’s hip-hop which resonated with both older and younger audiences.

Similarly, Zeze’s decision to feature Collins Bandawe on his amapiano version of the same track Tchekela Maluzi portrays a growing interest in reviving classic Malawian music.

And also, there is a trend of incorporating children’s choruses, such as Bwalo likule Tchalosi as Tay Grin and Maskal did in their song Tchalosi. The song has been praised for its blend of modern sounds with traditional Malawian melodies and instrumentals, creating a sound that feels both familiar and new.

Emmie Deebo and Qaso also tapped into this trend with their song that features Kalilima sorry kunyanja kalilima old chorus tune.

This trend has sparked a discussion in the music community, with some hailing the move as a much-needed cultural revival while others view it as a lack of originality and creativity.

Renowned art analyst Qabaniso Malewezi said the songs serve a crucial aspect of keeping memories alive.

He said: “Songs have always been re-mixed. There have always been renditions of old songs and sometimes newer songs. Music helps maintain memories of things we love, whether as children or adults so there’s that nostalgia aspect which is important.

“Every piece of art has a purpose and if it is nostalgia or to keep certain memories alive or doing songs well.”

Malewezi added that variety is important in any art form. He said even if a song isn’t entirely new, it can still offer something fresh through presentation.

“We can’t all do the same thing, as that would create monotony. We need different approaches to make the space exciting. If artists come together and create something nostalgic, then it should be judged on its nostalgic value,” he added.

Music analyst Chifuniro Masamba drew parallels between Malawi music industry and international trends. He said the use of samples and remakes is not something new in music.

“A lot of international musicians are built on samples. Kanye West is known for his clever use of samples. Songs like Hung Up by Madonna, Can’t Touch This by MC Hammer and Crazy in Love by Beyoncé enjoyed commercial success,” he said.

Masamba added that sampling can offer a fresh starting point or new direction for a song, leading to unique and innovative music.

He said: “Artists sample for several reasons, with creative inspiration being a primary motivator. It also serves as a way to pay homage to influential artists or genres, acknowledging the original work’s impact.

“Two artists can use the same sample and come out with different sounds. As an artist, it’s important to be true to oneself. If you need to tap into another artist’s work to express yourself, you need to have the blessing of the originator.”

Tricky Beats Records producer Patrick Manyozo said the approach not only preserves the country’s heritage, but also introduces younger generation to music.

“There are songs that kids nowadays don’t know. The choruses like bwalo likule were popular in our childhood days. But now a majority of children don’t know this music,” he said.

As Malewezi pointed out, it’s not just about whether the music is new or old. It’s about whether it resonates with the audience and serves a purpose. It may be nostalgia, cultural preservation or making a hit song.