Namibian kwaito great The Dogg to play farewell gig

The concert will mark the end of the musician's career of more than a decade. The Dogg, whose real name is Martin Morocky, announced last year that he would concentrate on producing.

“I had my share of great success with my music and I enjoyed it very much," he said in 2017. "Now I think it’s time that I spend my life doing other things that I also have love and passion for. I want to spend more time building my record label Mshasho Productions.

"I also plan to produce music for other artists. This shift of focus does not mean that I have left the music industry. No, I will still be very much involved in the local music industry but I just won’t release any new songs.”

The Dogg told Music In Africa that the 29 September concert would pay tribute to his dedicated fans.

"Since 2003 I have released winning and award-nominated albums and this last show will be dedicated to my fans who have supported me throughout. On 29 September I will say thank you to my fans and give back by releasing my last compilation of my greatest hits and allow new artists under the Mshasho label to continue the legacy. 

"This event will not only showcase how I have contributed economically to society but also how I have created many job opportunities through the Mshasho record label."

The 35-year-old musician also spoke about the music industry before the Internet became central to promotional and marketing efforts.

"Sixteen years ago I started in the industry without social media. It was more difficult. Today, my music can be heard beyond the borders of Namibia through YouTube and various online platforms."

The ex-Omalaeti O'Swapo member said it took some time to make Namibians believe in their own musical worth.  

"Paving the way and allowing Namibians to appreciate our own music was difficult. Namibians have always been strongly influenced by South African music allowing us to shape and form our identity took time. Our quality and professionalism was always in doubt and it took a few years to show Namibians that our music was just as good as foreign music."

The Dogg has 10 albums under his belt. His latest, Concrete Jungle, was released last year. His music has earned him success in countries such as South Africa, Botswana, Angola, Zambia and Zimbabwe. He has performed in France, Canada and the UK, among others.

Tickets for the farewell concert can be bought online via Computicket as well as at Shoprite and Checkers outlets.