Musicians Union of Malawi calls on urban artists to be party to MUM

Musicians Union of Malawi(MUM), has called upon urban artists to be part of the union if they are to benefit from the union and have a vibrant industry in the country.

Rudo Chakwera during one of the sessions
The urban artists in group photo

The call was made at the last day of a two-day workshop organized by the Union for its central chapter at Simama Hotel in Lilongwe.

Urban artists were invited to the workshop so that they could give in their views on what should be introduced and improved in the union. The artists were introduced to works of MUM, visions and goals plus it rules and regulations.

According to the President for MUM, Reverend Chimwemwe Mhango, they can no longer deny that fact that urban artists are a huge part of the music industry and need to be embraced hence why they have extended an invitation for the artists to become part of the union.

“You cannot run away from the fact that urban musicians have become a force to reckon with in the country “said Mhango.

He pointed out that some important genres were overlooked but time has come to ensure no genre is sidelined and Malawi has a very strong industry.

“We want to understand their perspective and bring forth their vision so that together will build a vibrant music industry “he said.

Mhango revealed that they have plans to partner with music crossroads to organize a big music day that will bring as many artists as possible.

He explainedwhat they stand to benefit as a union, stating that if they are to be serious they can use their powers to stop international performances that do not go through the right processes.

Mhango stressed the need for unity to exercise such powers.

“For instance, if we agree that we should sell our cd’s for not less than 500, then we should all uphold that. “he said.

Edgar Kachere, who doubles as MUM’s member and legal advisor in his presentation sensitized the urban artists on the new copyright act so that they can understand it and make necessary changes.

He pointed out infringement of copyrights especially illegal distribution which is mainly known as piracy as one of the main challenges musicians are struggling with.

“Musicians are really affected, they do not get the revenue they are supposed to get because of piracy,” he said.

“Piracy is a disease that is affecting the art industry not only music but other types of art but especially music,” added Kachere.

Speaking at the end of the workshop, Lulu real name Lawrence khwisa who is a member of MUM, has applauded the move made by MUM to engage urban artists in the union. He said that he has benefited a lot from the union since he has been a part of it.

“I once had a chance to attend a workshop in Rwanda because of MUM,”he said

He further suggested that MUM provides a platform for the talented that cannot manage to find a platform on their own.

Some of the urban artists that were in attendance of the workshop are Phyzix, Malceba, Blasto, fast rising dancehall sensation Beanca and upcoming producers William Mbeya, Henwood Mbeya and Lameck.

The workshop was spiced up by performances from Janta who performed his hit single divorce and Martse who performed mwano and of course Lulu.

Follow and Subscribe Nyasa TV :

Sharing is caring!

Follow us in Twitter
Read previous post:
I am not against changing parliament’s dress code – Speaker

Speaker of Malawi’s National Assembly, Richard Msowoya, has said he is not opposed to changing parliament’s dress code, as long...

Close