This great trek has resulted in some rising stars accusing Zimbabwean music promoters of refusing to work with new talent.
Bands such as Assegai Crew, Two Keys and Hungwe Stars have fallen victim to unscrupulous promoters. Moreover, prominent music promoters such as Chipaz Promotions, C&A Entertainment and Mama Red Rose only work with established and international stars.
This has forced upcoming musicians to search for greener pastures in neighbouring South Africa.
A survey by this paper indicated that SA promoters were more willing to work with Zimbabwean singers professionally.
Patrick Sibanda of Living Way Promotions and Entertainment in SA said:
“For amateur artists, we give them a certain percentage from gate takings as they are not yet known. For my side I give them 40 percent but other companies give them 10 percent and these are bogus promoters who take advantage of these desperate artists. In that percentage I am the one who pays for the venue and security manning the venue. We are helping them to grow as musicians.”
However, Matthew John of Matthews Promotions said: “I only deal with brand names as they bring in the cash. You pay a deposit upfront and that varies on how well the artists are received by the public.”
Zimbabwean artists such as Afro-jazz star Que Montana, urban groover Nox, Jonah Moyo and Dorothy Masuka have since relocated to South Africa.
Post published in: Entertainment