Tracing Agorosso’s footsteps to the Amaa’s

When Malawian folk musician was asked to prepare a soundtrack for the movie The Last Fishing Boat little did he know that his prowess in composing Afro-beats that tally with the film will take him to Nigeria to attend the African Movie Academy Award (Amaa) ceremony.

Being a Sena from Nsanje, Agorosso (Lloyd Phaundi), composed songs that included phrases in Yao in the film which came out as a great work of art.

“I just composed the music that I felt would tally with the storyline, I wasn’t told what to do by anyone. Actually the words are what I know of the Yao language and nothing more,” said the musician who taught himself how to play music using a metallic pot with nylon strings.

He said he was surprised to hear of his nomination for the award which if he attains will be his first international award.

“I was very surprised and I am really looking forward to the trip. I want to see what happens at such award ceremonies,” he said.

Agorosso draws on the traditional melodies of his Sena heritage and his lyrics draw on daily life.

An article published on www.thestar.blog.com says that Agorosso’s music offers emotional release while documenting the struggles of rural Malawians. “Agorosso’s music draws attention to social injustice even while public speech on such issues remains restricted. For the people here whose voices have been muted by the constraints of poverty and censorship, his small metallic pot with nylon strings brings not just music but social change,” reads the article in part.

The Last Fishing Boat

received five Amaa nominations in March. The film was nominated for best movie made in Mother/African language, best picture, and best soundtrack.

It also received nominations for best director for Joyah’s role and best leading actress for Flora Suya’s role as Abiti Anefa in the movie.

In an interview, the film-maker said together with actor Suya and musician Agorosso, they will leave Malawi on Wednesday April 17 for Nigeria.