Namibia: Mel Mwevi to play At Home With Goethe gig

The event is part of the At Home With Goethe series, which seeks to transform the homes of local artists into mini studios and give them a platform to discuss their experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mwevi will be joined by Sir Ray on bass and mbira, Mutsa on keys, and Mannie on guitar, percussion and backing vocals.

Mwevi described her upcoming performance as laidback, intimate and emotional. She said she would engage with viewers through a variety of personal stories that others could relate to.

“A time like this calls for Namibian artists to support each other. We are stuck in the same boat having lost jobs and not performing, while the creative industry is not seen as essential in the national economy. I plan to be my honest self and that means bringing up some harsh realities as we figure out our way through this pandemic. This is the time when the world needs artists the most, for individuals to feel, reflect, celebrate and be guided.”

She said she was a little nervous to stage a virtual performance because artists often drew energy from a live audience. “I make a point to look and speak to the very eyes and ears to connect and have a dialogue with my audience. My genre is mostly soul, jazz and R&B with some spoken word. The music I make depends on who I make it with and I enjoy exploring different styles. Music gives us freedom and I take advantage of it.”

Ellen Gölz from the German embassy in Windhoek said they were delighted to support the concert. “The support for arts and culture around the world is a central pillar of the German foreign cultural policy. It is especially relevant during these difficult times of the COVID-19 pandemic, as live concerts are not possible,” Gölz said.