Musicians Union of Malawi opens up to urban artists
Musicians Union of Malawi (Mum) has said it wants to make sure that all artists are accommodated and play their role in the body.
Mum President Reverend Chimwemwe Mhango admitted that urban artists, who are enjoying airplay on the ground, have been sidelined.
The music body last Thursday met some of the urban musicians in the Central chapter to hear from them but also look into other issues.
“As a parent body for all musicians in the country we felt it wise to engage urban artists. As a union, we would like to embrace all musicians. We can only do well as a body if we accommodate these young people,” he said.
Several urban artists have recently come out saying they do not benefit from the association, hence not being part of it.
Others have also indicated that the music body only targets established and veteran artists.
“We need to be part of Mum. Things have changed and as young people we need to among others hold positions and help change the way things are done.
“Urban artists have made progress. For instance, their songs are doing well but most of them do not benefit especially royalties,” said one of the urban artists, who did not want to be named.
But Mhango said the body was open to all artists and called upon urban artists to pay membership fees and be part of Mum for the betterment of the music industry.
The Mum leader also said they will be engaging urban artists in other chapters.
Recently, the music body also held unionism training in Lilongwe with funding from Swedish Musicians Union. The trainings will extend to other chapters.
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