By Sam Banda Jnr
Singer, songwriter, guitarist and producer Lulu on Sunday challenged fellow artists in the country to take their craft seriously and refrain from doing shortcuts if they are to make strides.
Lulu said this at Pakwathu Entertainment in Lilongwe where he headlined a concert that climaxed the Imagine Music Conference and Competition spearheaded by Music Crossroads Malawi.
“Talent is a business and so, we need to nurture it, to make progress, there is need to be disciplined and this includes rehearsing every time. You cannot make progress if you do not practice and that is what is failing us these days,” the artist said.
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He said having performed for years with artists such as legendary Soldier Lucius Banda and looking ahead to celebrating his 25th anniversary in music next month, he decided to take time out to speak to budding artists that patronised the concert.
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“It has not been easy to be where I am today and so, just as I have been lifted by Soldier Lucius Banda and others, I also want to help others realise their dreams in music,” Lulu said.
He added:
“This is why we will have both established and up- and- coming artists during the 25th anniversary celebration.”
As the headliner, Lulu, who shared the stage with a number of acts, including The Daughters Band, delivered a top-notch performance with his Mathumela Band and dished out several of his songs that people sang along.
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With his three- man band made up of a bassist, drummer and keyboardist, Lulu’s set also featured veteran dancer Oliver Akimu in some songs.
Akimu who also had a stint with Lulu while at Zembani Band, showed the audience that old wine tastes better when he rekindled memories of his past feats.
The dancer said he is still active and that he dances with his son.
“I am still in the game; dance is what put me in the limelight. I perform with my son, who is also passionate about dance,” Akimu said.
Music Crossroads Malawi Director Mathews Mfune hailed Lulu for showing up for the concert to entertain people.
“We had budding musicians and so, it was only right to have experienced artists to share their music. Again it was all about celebrating the success of the Imagine Music Experience and Competition,” Mfune said.
