Such unfortunate episode
It is unfortunate that in 2023 we can have time to be debating something which smells tribalistic.
It is sad that in this modern age some minds are yet to rise above the institutionalised imaginary boundaries that classify a people as Type A and others Type B. It is even more despicable that till today some people don’t have the necessary tools to process art.
The developments that followed up-and-coming artist Pop Young’s new single titled Sole brought a new low on how others perceive and interpret art. The connotations that came from the words that they did not utter were all loud and clear.
The sentiments point to one thing; to them, music can only be worth it once it is done in their preferred language. Where the world has come from, it is sad to note that some still harbour such classless and low opinions.
When one gives such interpretations you can appreciate how narrow the absorption of such content is. Those who said music represents a universal language said so after well-considered observations.
I can fill this space with examples of how many artists have achieved unequalled milestones in their careers while plying their trade in a language not too familiar with their audience. These are people who have only relied upon the finesse of their art and not the familiarity they can court among their kinsmen using language, colour and creed.
If one has missed the breakthroughs achieved by musicians such as Kofi Olomide, Wambali Mkandawire, Oliver Mtukudzi, Alpha Blondy, Mbilia Bel, Kanda Bongoman and Selif Keita then they don’t qualify to have a seat at any table where music or art is the topic of discussion.
It is in that spirit that I implore the majority of art lovers to quickly get past this episode so that we can avoid giving it attention it does not deserve. In this entry, I have equally made similar efforts not to repeat the remarks which to me, sound totally out of turn.
What has impressed me the most is the attitude shown by the Afro-pop artist himself. He was unequivocal on his stance on the sentiments made by his detractors which, he said, mean nothing to him as he is focused on developing his career in a way he knows how.
The last thing an artist as young as him need is to have some serious hate words being directed at them in any form, let alone tribalism. I can only pray that such negative jibes should only go a long way in energising his resolve and focus as an artist.
Last week Monday, theatre lovers in Lilongwe were served with a dish that they haven’t sampled in a long time.
On another note, a group of theatre players came together for a common cause; that is to raise funds for survivors of the Tropical Cyclone Freddy. Reports from the Capital City show that it was good comical ride on show that the patrons enjoyed thoroughly.
But, perhaps what was the most overarching element was the reason behind the performance. The success of such initiatives hinges on the kind of support that they get. And thus far, I don’t think the team has any qualms in that area.
The gate collections totalled K7 million. And to spice it all up, the many ministers, members of Parliament and politicians present made serious financial pledges in support of the cause.
The need to reach out to the survivors on the ground remains huge. What we can do as a people is to let everyone do what they can. With what they managed to get, it will make a difference in the lives of a few individuals and that is commendable.
