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Tay Grin in collabo with 2Face of Nigeria in ‘Chipapapa’ single

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Tay Grin: Chipapapa

After holding talks in England last year with Nigerian artist 2Face on music project involving Malawi and Nigeria artists, Malawian hip hop star Tay Grin and 2Face gave collaborated on a new song titled “Chipapapa”.Tay Grin: Chipapapa According to Tay Grin, “Chipapapa” will be released on Monday next week. He said the Lilongwe based DJ Sley produced the song. Tay Grin, also known as ‘Nyau King’, is Malawi’s top hip hop star and in 2014 he scooped the Best International African gong at the Black Entertainment Film Fashion Television and Arts awards in London. Born Limbani Kalilani, the rapper said he has always wanted to work with 2Face, saying Chipapapa song is “perfect for both of us.” “The countdown has begun and very soon you shall hear Chipapapa,” he said. “We are about to put Malawi on the table with the big boys of music. 2016 is the year Malawi shines,” he said. Added the rapper: “We need every Malawian to stand proud behind their artists and with one voice we change the industry forever.” The epic video for the song will be shot next month in South Africa and it promises to be a great visual.

Marvelous Deeds to drop new album March

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Marvelous Deeds

One of the well-known gospel groups in the country, the Marvelous Deeds are expected to release an album first week of March this year after being silent for close to two years. [caption id="attachment_102333" align="alignright" width="600"]Marvelous Deeds Marvelous Deeds[/caption] The 10-track album has songs such as Fulumirani, Mulinane cholinga, Dzulo langa and Lemekeza, according to the group’s Music Director Francis Phiri. “We have so far managed to record at least three songs and we expect to wrap up by the end of next month,” Phiri told Malawi News Agency (Mana) in an interview. He assured fans and all gospel music lovers that the yet-to-be titled new release will be the best one ever and different from group’s previous albums. Phiri laughed off proclamations that gospel artists are in gospel industry for money. “We understand some gospel artists might have joined the industry for the sake of money, but to us as Marvelous Deeds we take this as a ministry and a calling from God. “Let me assure all Malawians that as a ministry we are ready now to fulfill what God has called us for,” said Phiri. He cited financial constraints, piracy and lack of promoters as some of the challenges for the group. Said Phiri: “It has been a tough journey since we started as Marvelous Deeds, but we thank God we managed to be where we are now.” He called on fellow artists in the country to take gospel music seriously and as a ministry to which God has called them. “We are pleading to our fellow gospel artists not to take gospel music for granted since it’s a ministry and a calling from God,” he said.-Mana

Malawi music is laughable, everyone wants to sing like Nigerians –Tutor Chechamba

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Chechamba

There is still a long way to go before Malawian music can be taken seriously, veteran music tutor Wenham Chechamba has observed. [caption id="attachment_102375" align="alignright" width="600"]Chechamba Chechamba[/caption] According to Chechamba, Malawi music has reached a ‘laughable state’ due to a lack of formal training among the artisans. His comments come to back the proclamation by reggae musician Limbani Banda that “Malawi music is trash.” Banda, famous for the hit Chisoni Kumatenda, noted that it will take time for Malawi to establish itself as a country that produces good music. And Chechamba also pointed out that as much as the young generation of musicians are embracing diversity in their work, they lack a deep understanding of music and originality. “Yes, there is diversity today, but the music is laughable because it is monotonous in nature,” said Chechamba as quoted by The Nation newspaper. “ A majority of musicians do not take time to get training in music. As a result, what they sing is repetitive sounds that fall short to be described as music,” he noted, adding that most songs lack basic elements of music such as dynamics, melody, harmony, tone and rhythm. Currently, according to Chechamba, it is hard to define Malawi music because it is congested with foreign influences such as South African, American and Nigerian touches. “Today, everyone wants to sing like Nigerians because they have managed to promote their culture aggressively. The same applies to South African music, which has become part of Malawian sounds. But at the end of the day it is the original creators of such types of music that shine and render Malawians useless copycats,” said Chechamba. Limbani Banda, who is inspired by revered Jamaican reggae icon Peter Tosh and South African reggae musician Lucky Dube, noted that  in Malawi, people start singing “because they seek fame and not necessarily because they are talented. But they do not know what is involves to make good music.”. Music producer Joseph Tembo, former lawmaker, proposes that Malawi should enact “strong laws aimed at protecting artworks”. Musicians Union of Malawi (MUM) president Reverend Chimwemwe Mhango said the country need “concrete policies” that can help to push local music.

Poetry Association of Malawi asks govt for recognition

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Patwell Phiri - Central Region Poetry Chair

Poetry Association of Malawi has asked Government to recognize their skill of poetry as one of the important skills of communicating vital messages to the masses apart from educating and entertaining them. [caption id="attachment_102391" align="alignright" width="318"]Patwell Phiri - Central Region Poetry Chair Patwell Phiri - Central Region Poetry Chair[/caption] Patwell Phiri, new Chair for Central Region Poetry Association, a branch of the Poetry Association of Malawi, made the appeal recently in an interview with the Lilongwe News Agency (LINA). He lamented that the association is not recognized formally by authorities:”We don’t have a Ministry where we can say we belong to, which can be in a position to liaise with us on important issues such as matters to be communicated to the nation, for example disease outbreaks such as cholera, fears of diseases such as Ebola so that people are educated about them through poetry.” Patwell Phiri said communicating to the masses using poetry has proven to be very effective because everyone love poetry, there is no barrier in poetry, young or old, rich or poor, man or woman, decision makers or ordinary people, they all love poetry hence time to recognize the skill’s contribution to the nation. “We are happy that many Malawians love poetry, we are happy because the nation does recognize our works as they get entertained, and learn lessons for their lives. The chair also praised the media especially radio stations such as Nkhoma FM, CAN, Dziko FM that are playing a very important role for the central region poets to reach their fans by airing their poems. Phiri disclosed that under his leadership they have plans of holding many open shows to interact with their fans and said on January 31, they will hold the first of such shows in Lilongwe. He paid tribute to the former chair, Imulani Makande, for the success they achieved during his term, among other things, they produced an album known as Chikwatu cha ndakatulo in which features poets such as Robert Chiwamba, Humble C, Arthur Maseko, and is still on the market. Patwell Phiri, popularly known as Mvangeli Sadzu, also revealed that he, alone, has produced an album on Christian poems. “For the first time in Malawi, an album on Christian poems has been produced with 20 poems and will soon be on the market,” he disclosed. He explained that the album known as Uvangeli Woyamba, meaning Utumiki Woyamba, includes poems such as Ukadzafichana Naye Mwini Swaga, which uses language of the youths. “I want to attract young people to God, the poem Ukadzafichana Naye Mwini Swaga talks of what happens when the young people meet Jesus; everything in their life changes. Other poems in the album are Nampulikishya Kuwawa Satana, a Tumbuka piece, Osaopa, Mainjankishoni – the meaning in this one is to say that injunctions started with men of God such as Daniel, who got an injunction from God so that the Lions in the Lion’s den could not devour him. Other titles are: Pakutwanima kwa diso, Nakonjwa, Ndinu mbambande mai wanga- the last one is dedicated to his mother. Phiri said he, in his career as one of the champion of poetry, has also conducted a radio competition on poetry where Justice Masangano scooped first position and went away with K20, 000 and to record ten poems free at Gani Records together with those on second and third positions. To become a member of the Poetry Association of Malawi, one must pay K5, 000 as membership fee. Phiri advised new poets to come to the association but warned them not to copy others. “One major problem our fans complain about us is that new poets are copying tones of someone who is already known. Find your own identity.” Patwell Banda is a radio presenter at Nkhoma FM in Lilongwe, also producer of Lemba la Mlakatuli on the same radio. He is 21 years old and comes from Salima, Sadzu Village, TA Kalonga. He is pursuing a Human Resources Course at Lilongwe Technical College.  - LINA

Malawi’s Star Radio rebrands to Timveni radio

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Ernest Makanda: Timveni Radio

One of Malawi private radio stations, Star Radio has re-branded to Timveni Radio following the purchase of the financially struggling radio station by Timveni Child and Media Organizations. [caption id="attachment_102444" align="alignright" width="600"]Ernest Makanda: Timveni Radio Ernest Makanda: Timveni Radio[/caption] The organisation also owns Timveni Television which is one of the few stations running on full programming basis. "Timveni bought Star Radio in August 2015 to fulfill its goal of reaching out to as many youths as possible so that they be able to have a platform where they can realize their rights and participate fully in the national agenda,” said Timveni Child and Media Organisation Public Relations Manager Ernest Makanda "To achieve this, we applied for a radio and TV licence so that it could have platforms to achieve its vision and mission. In 2012 Timveni was granted a TV licence and immediately rolled out on the digital platform and later purchased Star Radio," said Makanda, adding that we the current setup, the radio will maintain all the Star employees but will only add some for quality output. Makanda said although some radio stations have youthful programs, Timveni radio will be "entirely for youth as it is working with the youth groups established by the organization in all the district's in the country." "Timveni radio is more you focused, professional and has on board a creative, innovative and matured team to make the station the listener's choice and a strategic business partner. We will have a well researched, provocative, matured and professional programmes that are aimed at providing a platform for young people to participate in the national agenda through expressing their views on issues that concern them and engaging with other stakeholders to address all the issues," he said. The radio is currently expanding its signal coverage a cross Malawi in order to reach out to a wider audience. The Timveni Child and Youth Media Organisation uses radio and television to give a voice to Malawi's young people, especially girls, on children's rights. The goals of the project are to help young Malawians make a difference in their own lives, create awareness about children’s rights, and build the capacity of children/youth to increase their meaningful participation in advocating for the realisation of their own right. Initiated in 2006 by Plan Malawi with funding from Plan Sweden and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), Timveni was launched as a Child and Youth Media Organization in 2011. In 2012, Timveni was granted permission for its own child-run, child-focused television channel. Until 2012, The Timveni Child and Youth Media Organisation focused on using radio as its principal media outlet, broadcasting on Malawi national radio. A 30-minute programme focusing on children’s concerns airs once a week on national radio.

‘Chipapapa’ song release countdown: Tay Grin features 2 Face

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Tay Grin and 2Baba

It’s countdown to the release of new song by  Malawi’s rap music celebrity Tay Grin a collaboration with multi-award winning Nigerian singer 2Baba (formerly known as 2 Face) which will be out on Friday this week. [caption id="attachment_102511" align="alignright" width="548"]Tay Grin and 2Baba Tay Grin and 2Baba[/caption] “The time you have been anxiously waiting for has finally come,” said Tay Grin who is “delighted” to be featuring the West African music heavyweight. “I promised you I was working on some bangers and that this year would be fire. The countdown has began and very soon you shall hear “Chipapapa” featuring the legendary @official2baba. I can’t wait for you guys to listen to this track,” Tay Grin disclosed to his fans. In an interview, the Nyau King revealed:“Our teams in Malawi and Nigeria are working on getting the song on all major continental radios and streaming sites.” He added: “We have the video shoot next month and soon it will be on all major TV channels.” Tay Grin said working with the African Queen superstar was a great honour. “He is an African legend I am proud to call my brother. We have known each other for ages and to finally work on a song we are both proud of is amazing. “He has always been an inspiration to me and has always encouraged me to follow my dreams as an artist, so to do my first comeback song with him is just perfect,” explained Nyau King. Chipapapa was produced by Lilongwe-based DJ Sley and it is Tay Grin’s first release since 2014 when he dropped The Beach featuring The Very Best. The rapper promises more this year as he indicates he has major plans up his sleeves. “I have a few other major collabos and videos which people should anticipate and massive concerts this summer. We are just getting the fire started.We are about to put Malawi on the table with the big boys of music. 2016 is the year Malawi shines. “We need every Malawian to stand proud behind their artists and with one voice we change the industry forever,” said Grin.

Twist wins K1.5 mil in Ka Jive: Malawi dancing competition

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The Twist a Blantyre based dance crew

A journey that started in October came to an end on Saturday and Blantyre-based group, Twist Dance Crew, were the ones who went home with ecstasy after emerging the 2015-16 Ka Jive dancing competition winners. [caption id="attachment_102535" align="alignright" width="600"]The Twist a Blantyre based dance crew The Twist a Blantyre based dance crew[/caption] Twist came top of the list after being adjudged as the best dancers to win the ultimate prize of K1.5 million in the second edition of the contest, produced by Times TVwith sponsorship from Airtel Malawi. The only group that had a female member in the finale, which took place at Robins Park, Twist beat five other contenders, their city counterparts Limbanazo Dance Crew and Ikuba, as well as Adobe Dance Crew, Salama Africa Dance Crew and the Incredibles from the capital Lilongwe. Despite power failures that forced some dance routines to be stopped, the event was thrilling and the dancers came all out not only to please the judges, they also had the floor to entertain the fans that thronged Robins Park. The six groups battled as they displayed traditional and contemporary moves that on several occasions seemingly left the judges Talumba Chirwa, Jean Chalungama and Rogers Siula in a tight spot. Spiced up by performances from Dan Lufani, Tay Grin, Piksy and Anne Matumbi, the contest was in two phases and it was the two Lilongwe groups Adobe and Salama up against Twist in the final round which saw the Blantyre crew coming out the best. Twist Dance Crew also made it to the top six last year but failed to come out top in the finale won by another Blantyre outfit Metics Dance Crew. Ka Jive dance competition started last year and only involved groups from Blantyre, before the inclusion of Lilongwe in the second season, which had auditions and evictions in both cities. The regional competition in Lilongwe, representing the central region, had 12 participating groups and at the end of it all three made it to the grand finale, while 22 groups battled in Blantyre, representing the southern region, and after evictions, three made it to the finals.

Wambali says Pisky Kora Award nomination ‘vital’ for Malawi music

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Piksy:  Got the nod for Kora award

Local legendary jazz musician Wambali Mkandawire has hailed urban artist Piksy for  Malawi’s sole nomination for this year’s Kora All Africa Music Award, saying it is “vital” to expose the country’s music at international stage. [caption id="attachment_88030" align="alignright" width="600"]Piksy:  Got the nod for Kora award Piksy: Got the nod for Kora award[/caption] [caption id="attachment_91555" align="alignright" width="530"]Wambali:  Kora awards good for Piksy and Malawi music Wambali: Kora awards good for Piksy and Malawi music[/caption] “Getting ominated for an award at the Kora All-Africa Music Awards is no mean feat”, Wambali told Nyasa Times. The Kora Award is the most prestigious African music award, he noted. “t is for this reason that Piksy deserves kudos for clinching a nomination at this year’sKora Awards,” stated Wambali. Piksy got the nod  in Best Male Southern Africa category for for the song Moto from his second album “Mnthunzi”. The Pan African cultural awards ceremony that rewards the finest African talents will be held on March 20 2016 in Windhoek, Namibia. The award winning musicians also said that the nomination means that Malawian artists are “ developing”  and that there are a lot of young people who are doing amazing work . “This is just endorsing whatever they have been doing, we expect more.” Piksy is confidenrt that he can come home with the gong. “ Everything can happen in every competition, if Malawians can vote, I can make it,” he said. Piksy has a hurdle to surmount though as this category has one of the South Africa’s leading rappers AKA. Other nominees are Gazza from Namibia, Zambia’s Petersen, Angola’s Coreon Du and C4 Pedro. The Kora Awards are given annually for musical achievement in sub-Saharan Africa and since its inception in 1994, the only other Malawians to have been nominated for the award is Wambali Mkandawire in 2002  and Thoko Katimba in 2012. To win the award, Piksy will have to beat competition from Angola’s C4 Pedro and Coreon Du, South Africa’s AKA, Zambia’s Petersen and Namibia’s Gazza. He stands to win K30 million if he triumphs. The organizers of awards revealed that the winner of the Best Artist of the Continent will receive a grand prize of $1 million (about K600 million) while the category winners will cart home $50 000 (about K30 million).

Blasto and Piksy set for  South Africa concert omn Valentine’s Day

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Blasto to share stage with Piksy

Malawi's dance hall artist, Blasto is set to perform before Malawians in Johannesburg at a place called Tijuca in South Africa on Valentine's Day (14th February 2016). [caption id="attachment_102644" align="alignright" width="398"]Blasto to share stage with Piksy Blasto to share stage with Piksy[/caption] Blasto told the Malawi News Agency (Mana) that he will share the stage with Piksy. "We are expected to leave on 10th February so that we have more time to rehearse with the band. I have other appearances with one of the oldest sound system in South Africa the Jah Crucial hi fi sound," said Blasto. The ex-seminarian at Mlale said it is time for South Africans to checkout for some authentic reggae and dancehall vibe from the warm heart of Africa. "I am coming through with that explosive Blasto experience," he said. He also said after the 14th February show, people should not get worried because he will also have two other shows on 18th and 20th February with Jah Crucial sound system. Blasto, real name Otis Chilamba, started music when he was at Mlale Seminary before taking it further when he was doing accounting at Mzuzu Technical College and says his brother Mosh D is also a musician. His first recording in the studio was in 2003 and this was not that serious but it opened up the way because after that he started acting in Lilongwe later at Harry Gibb's place who formed a theatre group. He then went on to produce a mixtape titled The Unexpected and EP titled Stronger.

‘Turn back the Time’: Judy Boucher set for Malawi Valentine show

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Judy Boucher to perform in Malawi

Impact Events who are the organizers of a mega Valentine show scheduled to take place at Bingu International Conference Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe have confirmed that the guest artist Judy Boucher  of 'Turn back the Time' fame will jet into the country on 12th February, 2016. [caption id="attachment_100519" align="alignright" width="150"]Judy Boucher to perform in Malawi Judy Boucher to perform in Malawi[/caption] Impact Events Chairperson Lucious Banda made the confirmation on Wednesday and assured Malawians that everything including the venue and hotel bookings have been made. "In a nutshell, we are geared and ready for the show" said Banda. He said Impact Events chose to bring the Reggae Pop, Lovers rock R & B celebrated singer because she is one of the best singer who has remained unfade during her entire career. He further assured Malawians that it will be a genuine live performance and no CD's will be used. "Impact Events is trying its best to satisfy Malawians. When people hear of Impact Events, they should expect everything live" boosted Banda. Boucher will be supported by Banda himself who has also done several love songs including Nasibeko, Esther and Zakukhosi among others. Boucher is one of the best singers across the globe and launched her solo career in 1985 after producing her hit song "dreaming of a little island". She then released another bombshell "cant be with you tonight" which made a breakthrough and reached position 2 in UK singles chart in 1987. Some of the popular albums Boucher released include Tears on my pillow-1993, Devoted to you-1994, Take me as I am-1996 and Sunshine and dreams-2007. Meanwhile, ticket sales for the show is in progress and can be purchased at BICC, Papaya Restaurant and all Puma filling stations in Lilongwe. Standard tickets for the show are going at K20,000 for singles while ticket for a couple is at K35,000. V.I.P tickets for singles is going at K30,000 while couple V.I.P tickets are at K50,000.

Nation newspaper goofs, Cassper Nyovest not coming to Malawi again

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Cassper Nyovest: Not coming again

Promoters Mango Entertainment have refuted reports that South African hip-hop artist Cassper Nyovest was scheduled to perform in Malawi in March. [caption id="attachment_84942" align="alignright" width="600"]Cassper Nyovest: Not coming again Cassper Nyovest: Not coming again[/caption] This follows a story carried by one of the country’s dailies, The Nation, in its Tuesday issue headlined “Cassper Nyovest returns to Malawi next month”. The paper reported that the multi-award winning rapper was slated to perform at College of Medicine Sports Complex in Blantyre on March 21. The report quoted Mango Entertainment director Steve Kamanga as saying “We have finally secured and everything is now set. The contract was signed this week.” But Mango Entertainment denied they were bringing Cassper back to Malawi following his 2015 tour. “We would like to formally announce we have have no knowledge of the article printed by the Nation publications this morning stating that Cassper Nyovest will be returning to Malawi for another show next month. If and when a show is arranged between us and Casspers team we will be the first to inform the public.” They announced on their Facebook page. However, article was the same which the publication carried in February 2015 after the promoters announced Nyovest was to perform in Malawi. During the 2015 tour, Cassper Nyovest performed in Blantyre at the College of Medicine Sports Complex on March 21 and in Lilongwe at Alexander’s Pub Courtyard on 22 March.  

UK promoter Grajoh drops Lucius over anti-gay position: Malawi artists Lulu, Skeffa and Dan Lu to perform in England

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Lucius Banda:  I don't want gays at my shows

Malawi music giant and lawmaker, Lucius Banda has been dropped by UK based promoter Grajog for a contract he had signed to perform in England during Eater holidays. [caption id="attachment_95765" align="alignright" width="600"]Lucius Banda:  I don't want gays at my shows Lucius Banda: I don't want gays at my shows[/caption] Grajoh Talent Management had hired Lucius Banda alongside Zambia’s Mampi Mukape for a series of shows in UK during Eaaster holidays but the Malawian has been dropped from his controversial statements on homosexuals. The Balaka North legislator cut short a performance at Zithere Pano in Mangochi on Christmas Eve after he reportedly noticed two men in the audience cuddling and kissing. The self-acclaimed Soldier of the Poor came under fire from human rights activists who accused him of being homophobic. Grajoh had demanded Lucius to apologise for anti-gay stance but the musician stood his ground. And the UK promoters have since terminated their contract with him Lucius Banda and hired other renowned Malawi musicians Lulu, Skeffa Chimoto and Dan Lu. The artists will tour Manchester, Leicester and London from March 26 to April 02. “[They] will perform along Uganda’s Lily Kyeyune & Jamal Wasswa and Zambia’s Mampi Mukape,” Johnson Mujungu of Grajoh confirmed, The tour is dubbed ‘Easter Fusion’ and Lulu said he is “thrilled” to return to the UK after his first performance in 20009 with Licius Banda’s Zembani Band. “ It’s always sensational connecting with the fans out there,” Lulu said. While disclosing they were currently working on visas, Skeffa said: “I’m ready for it. This is something big considering there will be a lot of artists from different countries.” Acccoridng to Grajoh, the Malawi artists will perform alongside  popular Ugandan artists Robert Kyagulanyi aka Bobi Wine , Omubanda Wakabaka aka Ghetto President, and singer Nubianli Buken Ali.  

Malawi Prison band won’t be at Grammys: Secured nomination

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Zomba Prison Project nominated for the Grammys.

A band made up of inmates from one of Malawi's most congested prisons in Zomba which  secured the country's first Grammy nomination will not be at the Grammy Awards  because the prisoners’ legal cases make international travel impossible, according to American music producer Ian Brennan. [caption id="attachment_99293" align="alignright" width="600"]Zomba Prison Project nominated for the Grammys. Zomba Prison Project nominated for the Grammys.[/caption] The 2016 Grammys take place in Los Angeles, in United States  on 15 February. Brennan, who worked   with convicts in the Zomba Prison Band, producing the album "I have no everything here" said the group will not be part of the audience when the results are announced  at  America’s biggest music awards, shortlisted for Best World Music Album The Zomba prisoners band will compete at the star-studded eventa gainst Anoushka Shankar’s Home, Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s Music From Inala, Angelique Kidjo’s Sings and Gilberto Gil’s Gilbertos Samba Ao Vivo. The band, many of whom are serving life sentences for murder wrote and recorded an album, I Have No Everything Here, in 2013 before releasing it last January, with songs including the deeply personal likes of “Don’t Hate Me”, “Prison of Sinners”, “I See the Whole World Dying of AIDS” and “Please, Don’t Kill My Child”. Brennan who visited the band members in Zomba last week  aid he is encouraged with “beautiful” press coverage  for the band though he pointed out that has not necessarily resulted in more sales for the Zomba Prison Project music. “International recordings that are not in English or Spanish sell very little, but hopefully a win could generate some additional sales,” he said. “People around the globe have been very moved and captivated by Malawi and the prisoners’ story—BBC, Rolling Stone, Associated Press, Business Insider, The Guardian and New York Daily News, among others,” he said. The Zomba Prison Project Music are  the first Malawian musicians to be nominated at the prestigious Grammys.

Download Chipapapa here: Tay Grin featuring 2Baba

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chipa

For downloads, follow this link: http://tinyurl.com/h2y2gzt Chipapapa the much touted single by award winning  Malawian rapper Tay Grin which features Nigerian multi-award winning singer-songwriter 2Baba aka 2Face is out. The latest track, produced by DJ Sley, is enjoying air play in both Malawi and Nigeria radios and went up for downloads on  Malawi music website. Chipapapa is Tay Grin’s comeback project after two years. His last song, The Beach featuring The Very Best, came out in 2014. The song has been recorded at two different studios in Malawi and Nigeria but mastered by local hands. Said self-styled Nyau King: “2face recorded his beat and then sent it here to DJ Sley for mixing and producing as well. I have always wanted to work with 2Face and this song seemed perfect for the both of us. We met in London and I played him the song, at the time I had just recorded the chorus and when he heard it, he liked it and as they say, the rest is history.” chipa  

Behind every Malawi great artist, there’s a good manager –story of Edward Kankhomba

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Prime Time Media Boss Edward Kankhomba

Behind every great artist’s success there is a great manager. Gwamba and Nesnes are arguably the most successful young artists in Malawi at the moment thanks to the brains behind their former manager, Edward Kankhomba. [caption id="attachment_102907" align="alignright" width="343"]Prime Time Media Boss Edward Kankhomba Prime Time Media Boss Edward Kankhomba[/caption] Popularly known as Wado, Kankhomba is a Blantyre based successful young businessman. He runs Prime Time Media (PTM), a company that commercializes youth businesses in creative arts. Originally, Prime Time Media started in 2006 as 10plusten Links, and rebranded into a media production unit. It is registered with the Registrar of Companies under license number 160351 in February 2013 as a sole proprietorship. A former Story workshop and Power FM 101 radio employee, Kankhomba says his company’s vision is to become a diverse media production company in Malawi and sub-Saharan region. “In 10 years to come we would like to have Prime Time Media as a very successful business in the creative arts that would be a part of a very vibrant African entertainment industry that supports creative arts and offer quality media products,” he says. Kankhomba adds that through this business, PTM would like to see many young talented artists earning a living through arts. “It is very frustrating to see talented artists not getting paid for their hard work. We have a poor structure of marketing our art. As PTM we are working hard to change the system of managing and marketing art in Malawi,” he says. He boasts that all PTM artists are protected to avoid being abused and being involved in dubious deals. “Most Malawian artists are ignorant on how the music industry operates so they are usually manipulated by the corporate world. PTM artists are registered by Copyright Society of Malawi (COSOMA) and we follow a well documented system when booking them for shows,” he adds. Under PTM, Gwamba and Nesnes both successfully launched their respective albums namely “Kudutsa Pakhoma” and “Nthawi Yakwana” at Lilongwe Golf Club on 21 September 2014 and at Robins Park in Blantyre on 18th October 2014. With “U Got Dance Moves” and “Miss Warm Heart of Africa” being some of the major events that PTM has hosted, Kankhomba says the management of this firm has people with considerable experience in media production as one of its strengths. “Being the founder and Managing Director, I started this business in 2006 on a part-time basis as an entertainment promoter and have since scaled up the operations of the business as I am now working fulltime,” he narrates. However, the PTM boss bemoans lack of resources to expand the company across Africa, saying this has also attributed to having a small list on the company’s roster. “We are moving slowly but we are hopeful that we shall reach the Promised Land. Everything successful starts with humble beginnings. We have a strong working relationship with local print and electronic media and we are working hard to break boarders,” he says. On the company’s succession plan, Kankhomba says It is the intention of Prime Time to grow into a formidable force should favourable conditions prevail. “As it grows, it will diversify and register as a limited company moving from sole proprietorship at that stage shares. Appropriate recruitments of agents will be made, a Board of Directors will be appointed with the current Managing Director becoming the Chairman of the limited company,” he explains. Kankhomba is not a stranger in youth awareness and empowerment programmes. He has an advocacy background on his belt. “I am part of the Ambassador’s youth council where we advise the ambassadors on what youth areas to focus on and support. I once served young people in two boards: National Youth Council of Malawi and National Aids Commission. This gave me an opportunity to interact with youth groups on the ground that I consulted and report to before and after board meetings,” explains Kankhomba. Kankhomba also formed Stars Aware Initiative, a grouping of local celebrities. Stars Aware held workshops with local celebrities grooming them on how to use their influence to reach out to their fans and celebrities hold free concerts that encourage their fans to go for HIV Testing and Counseling (HTC).

Acoustic icon Giddes’ childhood dream comes true: Chalamanda coming to America tour

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Kamzingeni (left), Maliro (centre) and Mijiga

Malawi’s acoustic icon Giddes Chalamanda’s childhood dream to perform in the United States of America is steadily coming true as the 86 year-old legend is scheduled to perform in USA on July 6 2016. [caption id="attachment_102979" align="alignright" width="600"]Kamzingeni (left), Maliro (centre) and Mijiga Kamzingeni (left), Maliro (centre) and Mijiga[/caption] The acoustic icon, who shared his dream in one of his songs, ‘Bufallo Soldier’—“I had enough money I would to America”—will also offer lectures to several colleges and conduct workshops on Malawi’s performance culture dubbed “Malawi Night”. The trip, dubbed “Giddes Coming to America Tour’, is being spearheaded by a group of vibrant and robust Malawians including media consultant MacDonald Chapalapata, artist Edgar ndi Davies, economist Wilkins Mijiga, marketer Emmanuel Maliro, E-wallet Manager Felix Njawala, lawyer John Gift Mwakhwawa, Darlington Ndasauka, Mphatso Kamzingeni, Chimwemwe Kanyenda and Frank Kapesa, among others. Addressing the media on Friday, Chairperson of the Giddes Coming to America project, Mijiga said they have teamed up to help Giddes realise his dream of performing live in America. Mijiga also said the initiative is also aimed at marketing and promoting Malawi music beyond the borders. Giddes, who has been performing for over 50 years and has performed twice in Europe, mainly in Germany, is one of the Malawi’s surviving veteran who is still active on stage and old school music maestro, will be joined on this epic tour by the elite present generation music genius Duet of Edgar ndi Davies, and top rated gospel artist, Patience Namadingo. They will all travel with their bands which altogether puts the number of artists at 12. “Our aim is to bring Giddes’ “I had enough money I would go to America” dream a reality. It’s about promoting and exporting this brand of Giddes, Edgar ndi Davies, Patience Namadingo. “As a group of vibrant and robust artists, events professionals and proud Malawians we find it very important to export our music to other countries not only to celebrate Malawi’s performances culture but to sell our cultural tourism as well,” said Mijiga. He said the total cost of this tour for a 12 member band for two weeks is US$32,000 (K25 million) including their US$20,000 air fares. Apart from a massive performance on Independence Day, Giddes will a host a traditional 6th July discussion Forum which an Association of Malawians living in the US conducts annually, where they will, among others, reflect where Malawian music has been, the history and the challenges artists face. The crew will host several gigs in Atlanta and Indiana, among other places in the USA, according to Mijiga. Mijiga therefore called on the corporate entities and individuals to take advantage of this “shining galaxy” to market their brands to both Malawians living in the US and Americans interested to come to Malawi. “It’s about marketing Malawi. It’s about marketing our music performance culture. Giddes Chalamnda, Edgar ndi Davies and Patience Namadingo are Malawians brands that can sell well anywhere in the world. “This USA tours is a Malawian tour and we should all actively promote and market these brands,” said Mijiga. On his part, Davies Njobvu of Edgar ndi Davies duo, said they have lined up a number of fundraising shows and they also be reaching out to corporate entities and individuals to support this cause. Njobvu said they will launch the Tour in Blantyre and Lilongwe March 4 and March 5 respectively. “At these shows, Malawians will have a chance to interact up close with The Legend Giddes. Since this is about Malawi, we are happy to announce that any designer who is willing to come on board and design outfits for the crew and especially Giddes is welcome,” said Njobvu.

Better: Gwamba to donate K0.5 mil to orphanage

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Duncan 'Gwamba' Zgambo: Better

Spoken words remains words until a hand is added to build a wall. In his new gospel banger titled Better, baptised Gwamba sing of good life; he is giving a hope to the poor and oppressed. [caption id="attachment_100727" align="alignright" width="400"]Duncan 'Gwamba' Zgambo: Better Duncan 'Gwamba' Zgambo: Better[/caption] In the new development of hope giving, Gwamba who is now living Christ life is moving mountains with his hands following his move to donate a sum of K500, 000.00 to Pashello Charity Trust in Ngabu, Chikwawa to help towards building of an orphanage house. According to the artist who was welcomed to gospel arena with over 30, 000 downloads for Better within 24 hours, the official donation is scheduled on Friday, 12th February. "I Just thought it Godly to share the little am blessed with so that I somehow make Malawi a  better living for someone," explains Gwamba He continued:"It is everyone's responsibility to share and grow a better place for our brothers and sisters in need, so on Friday am invading Ngabu with some funds to help in constructing a shelter for our in need of it." In addition, the gospel rapper, Gwamba says the donation is also part of thank-giving to the nation for accepting him as for his music switch and promises more good deeds as God instructs. "I just want to thank God and all Malawians for the support and love they have rendered on my gospel genesis and also on my  new song Better. Honestly, it hasn't been easy but now, we are there," thanked Gwamba who has a number of good deeds in his account including hope giving Nabola Kusache hit long before meeting the Christ. Gwamba's goodwill can also be translated as a calling to his fellow musicians to journey into positive mission where their hands will work their music rather than wasting  energy and resources on the hate.

Controversy over Chipapapa: Tay Grin denies stealing song from Zika B

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Zika B Pic. from Faceboo

Controversy surrounds Tay Grin’s new hit song “Chipapapa” barely a week after its release. [caption id="attachment_103007" align="alignright" width="340"]Zika B Pic. from Faceboo Zika B Pic. from Faceboo[/caption] The DJ Sley produced song which features Nigeria’s 2face is currently number three on malawi-music.com top 10 charts. “It has come to my attention that there’s an alleged theft of the song Chipapapa. A reporter from one of the local print media houses called me on Sunday, alleging there’s a boy  who claims I stole his song titled Chipapapa”, Tay Grin posted on his Facebook page on Sunday. He went on to say that the development was unfortunate because he wrote the song after DJ Sley had sent him the beat in October last year and 2Baba wrote his part. “I’ve never heard of or met this boy or heard his alleged track. Let me set the record straight, I’d never steal someone’s song or work. Look out for more bangers coming! ‪#‎2016goals,” stressed the Nyau Music rapper. According to reports, Lilongwe based up and coming rapper Zika B claims that producer Marcus of Dare Devils made the beat and sold it to DJ Sley who later sold it to Tay Grin. However, Marcus denied the claims saying he never sold the beat and both songs have different concepts altogether. “Zika B sent me the beat through WhatsApp, it sounded like a demo so I told him that I will try to remix it out of good will,” Marcus said in an interview on Monday. He then pointed out that the only similarity between the two songs is kids singing on the chorus. “Zika B’s song is a crunk beat totally different from Tay’s. To be honest with you, I just started seeing Tay’s Chipapapa artwork two weeks ago next thing I heard it was out. There has been no communication between me and Tay or DJ Sley,” he explained. According to Marcus, although he produced the beat he couldn’t even play the song on his Joy radio show because the Zika B song was not well coordinated, not airplay material. In his remarks, DJ Sley said the beat was made from scratch and Tay Grin came up with the concept after getting the beat. “I believe the kid is just seeking attention, after all, “Chipapapa” is a folk song and nobody can claim ownership. However, everyone is entitled to their opinion. He can say whatever he wants but he won’t benefit anything,” emphasized DJ Sley. According to Malawi-music.com, Zika-B, real name Stanley Zikabuma,started music in 2010 and went official in 2013. He was working on his mixtape "Kubooleza" which was scheduled for December release. He has already worked with some artists like Saint, Sanjie, Jay Jay Cee and Piksy. Zika B could not be reached to comment.

Tay Grin to perform with X Factor’s Reggie ‘N’ Bollie in UK April 1

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Tay Grin comes face to face with Reggie N Bollie

Malawi’s rap celebrity Tay Grin who has released Chipapapa song which features Nigeria’s legend 2Face, who is now known as 2Baba is set to share the stage with UK X Factor finalists Reggie N Bollie at a show on 1 April in Birmingham.flyer tay [caption id="attachment_103012" align="alignright" width="501"]Tay Grin comes face to face with Reggie N Bollie Tay Grin comes face to face with Reggie N Bollie[/caption] The Malawian rapper and Ghanaian dynamic duo will perform at Aston Villa Football Club in a gala dinner and dance to launch Tee Mak designer. Reggie N Bollie finished second on The X Factor in 2015 behind 17-year-old Louisa Johnson. The pair's fun and lively performances won over viewers of the ITV televised talent competition. They have since signed a record deal with show boss  Simon Cowell's label, Syco and continue to get support from their X Factor mentor, Cheryl . They are expected to release their debut album this year. “This will be a massive show,” Tay Grin told Nyasa Times in an interview from Malawi confirming he will be travelling to UK for the show. “I am looking forward to it and will give my best,” he added. Tay Grin  set to match the upbeat style of Reggie ‘N’ Bollie at the gala dinner which will be a red carpet event. According to Eventbrite who are selling the show tickets, it will start 6pm to midnight and cover prices will be VIP £100 while Standard tickets at £50 including food and refreshments. Award winning Malawian rapper will be performing again in UK but this time ridding on a popular wave of a new song Chipapapa. Locally, Chipapapa went up for free downloads exclusively on Malawi-music.com, the leading local music downloading platform; while in Nigeria it was released via major online platforms and radio stations. South Africa, Zambia, Ghana and Zimbabwe are also among the countries where the track has been released. Tay Grin teamed up with the Nigerian multi-award winning 2Baba to put together a hit for the year 2016. Chipapapa, produced by renowned 2015 UMP Awards producer of the year nominee, DJ Sley, is already on high rotation on Malawian and Nigerian radio stations. Chipapapa video will be shot mid this month in South Africa by Pilot Films and will be ready by the end of the month. This is the first project that Tay Grin is releasing this year. Although he has not disclosed any plans for an album, the Nyau King has revealed he will release several hits this year, some of which feature other top African artists. He unveiled this week that apart from 2Baba, he also approached another Nigerian music heavyweight Wizkid for collaboration. And on the local scene, he is currently working on a song with Sonye of “Tsika” fame. The rapper, real name Limbani Kalilani, said he is doing collaborations with international acts not for showbiz but rather promoting the country’s music. Stream and download Tay Grin’s new song Chipapapa featuring 2Baba by following this link:http://tinyurl.com/h2y2gzt.

Season 2 of Airtel Trace Music Star underway in Malawi

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Lost in the rythm_ Season 1 national winner Sam Mjumira treats the audience with some of his renditions. Pic by Brian Itai,Mana.

Airtel’s journey to unearth the next music star from Africa has begun again as Airtel Trace Music Star competition season 2 has been launched in Lilongwe, with a promise of higher stakes and counting on building on the success of the maiden season which was launched two years ago. [caption id="attachment_103077" align="alignright" width="600"]Lost in the rythm_ Season 1 national winner Sam Mjumira treats the audience with some of his renditions. Pic by Brian Itai,Mana. Lost in the rythm_ Season 1 national winner Sam Mjumira treats the audience with some of his renditions. Pic by Brian Itai,Mana.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_103078" align="alignright" width="401"]Airtel's Elias Imaan, his brand is keen to expose and celebrate creative talent. Pic by brian Itai,Mana. Airtel's Elias Imaan, his brand is keen to expose and celebrate creative talent. Pic by brian Itai,Mana.[/caption] During the initial voyage, Malawi registered a whopping 30,000 plus auditions and at the end of it all the ultimate national prize kitty of MK14 million was scooped by Sam Mjura who went on to represent the country in the Pan African finals in Kenya. Airtel’s Sales and Distribution Director Elias Imaan who spoke during the colourful launch at Golden Peacock Hotel in Lilongwe said Airtel believes the passion for music is one of the core attributes to Malawi and Africa as a whole. “Music is a language that knows no borders and with this competition, Airtel is keen to expose and celebrate the creative talent that will be championed, exposed and rewarded, “said Imaan. From the competition, the talents which will come out tops locally will then compete with top talents from other Airtel operating countries across Africa for the final accolade of best African music talent to be held in Lagos, Nigeria mid this year. During the launch of the 2 season, Airtel announced that the competition’s top three winners will share a cool K15 million cash prize, with the overall winner pocketing K10 million with the second and third runners up walking away with MK3 million and MK2 million respectively. The grand prize for the overall Pan African winner comprises a mentorship programme with multi-award winning American singer-songwriter Keri Hilson in Atlanta on top of a recording contract with a major record label. During the launch, first season winner Mjura, who finished in the final top 6 in the Pan African contest, entertained the patrons with a spirited performance by dishing out some tunes which endeared him to music lovers during the first season. Airtel subscribers can audition via mobile phones by dialing 59911. The first minute of the submission will be free of charge and thereafter a cost of K50 will be charged on every minute. The audition lines will remain open until the 27th March after which the voting process will begin.
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