Morgan Heritage in town, tips local artists
Jamaican reggae group Morgan Heritage finally jetted into the country on Friday.
They were expected to perform at Silver Stadium in Lilongwe Sunday.
The reggae group which has made strides since its formation in 1994, held a press conference on Saturday ahead of their concert.
The group which is in the country courtesy of Born Afrikan Productions led by South Africa- based musician and promoter Born Afrikan real name Nelson Shaba on Saturday took time out to advise local artists to work hard and be patient when producing their music.
The reggae group said music demands patience and that it was only through hard work that they can produce quality music to compete on the international market.
Team Leader of the crew’s tour, Peter Morgan, said the band will bring its label ‘Coot to be conscious’ (CTBC) to Africa to uplift the continent’s music so that it can be particularly recognised in the first world countries.
Said Peter: “The African Music industry including the Malawi music industry has a lot of talent which just needs nurturing. We want to bring CTBC music to Africa to help develop the industry.
Musicians, singers, writers, rappers—everything that comes with music—it’s here in Africa.”
He also said the crew is particularly delighted because, for the first time, it has been nominated for the Grammy Awards scheduled for Los Angeles, USA in February next year.
The country’s Zomba Prison Music Project has also been nominated for the Grammy Awards.
Morgan Heritage is promoting its latest album titled Strictly Roots during this tour. Peter said of the album: “The album is for all people. When we say strictly roots, it is not about any particular music. But it’s about roots of life. In everything you do, there is a root. In every avenue you go to, there is a root. There is a reason for everything.”
He also clarified that, contrary to widespread perceptions, Rastafarianism is not about wearing dread locks, smoking marijuana and eating non-meat foods.
“Rastafarian is a life, it is a livity. It is about standing up for oneself. It is about sovereignty. Eating ital foods, smoking ganja and wearing dreadlocks are personal choices. They have nothing to do with Rastafarianism,” said Peter.
On his part, another member of the reggae outfit, Mr Mojo, who visited the country last month ahead of the concert described reggae music as one of the most influential things in the history of mankind.
“Reggae music is the king’s music. It is the Rastaman’s gospel music that has gone global, spreading the message of love and oneness,” said the vocalist and percussionist.
Gramps Morgan said Malawian artists should look within themselves and believe in their potential.
“Believe in Africa and know that Africa has a future. As we advance into the 21st century, we are all looking for the best. If you are a farmer, go and farm; if you are a fisherman, go and fish. Leave music alone.
“But if you are a fisherman and you have the gift, then CTBC music is the place for you. Believe in yourself, be strong and invest in your talent. Practice and practice,” said Gramps.
Born Afrikan Productions has once again proved it is serious with its shows by managing to bring Morgan Heritage in the country.
Last year the group brought another Jamaican musician Fantan Mojah and then early this year they brought Luciano.
Morgan Heritage which in two decades has had a number of successful reggae albums was expected to share the stage with Born Afrikan, Black Missionaries and Soul Raiders.
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