US artist Sho Baraka to perform in Malawi

Dubbed Hip Hop Christmas Collective, the free concert will feature Zambia's Mag 44 and local artists like Faith Mussa, Suffix, KBG, Liwu, Mista Gray and Chozizwa.

Sho Baraka (born Amisho Baraka Lewis 10 January 1979) is not the first US gospel rapper to perform in the country. Other artists who have performed in Malawi include Lecrae, Flame, Trip Lee, Tedashii and KB.

Event organiser Humphrey Mkandawire told Music In Africa that the concerts are intended to connect youth with the church. “Flood Church is a church that is passionate about reaching out to young people,” Mkandawire said. “Therefore, we do take interest in what young people are excited and fascinated about.”

He also said that the shows will allow “youth led organizations will be allowed to set up tables and booths around the venue to share information, receive donations and sell merchandise for different causes”.

Asked why they specifically invited Baraka to headline the events, Mkandawire said: “We know in Malawi young people love Sho Baraka. We heard that he is touring Africa and we decided to have him here and be part of our Christmas Collective event.”

We are also having a Zambian artist called Mag44 at this event, so it’s not only Sho Baraka. We are having Sho Baraka not because Africa doesn’t have talented and epic musicians but it is more of an issue of opportunity and great timing which works for us at the moment.”

Mkandawire urged promoters and people should support local music. “We still need to improve on our marketing and coordination among the artists. There’s still less support from the people towards artists in as far as buying their music and paying them what is due when they are invited to events,” he said. “We are yet to grow in our mind-set that people can live and have a job as artist and that the general public can see them that way. Only then we will be able to support our artists the way they need to be supported financially.

Commenting on the state of the music industry in the country, he said there were signs of progress.  “The music industry in Malawi is growing and there’s a lot of maturity coming out of it. The maturity is showing through how artists are striving in producing good songs with good content and high quality, Mkandawire said.

“Vocally there’s a lot of growth and artistically people do more and better now than before. A lot of artist are having managers which means most of them are concentrating on developing their art than logistical things.”

Mkandawire said the church is instrumental in growing the arts scene in Malawi. “The church has a big role in helping shape talent and in supporting artists. History shows that music began and originate from God’s community which is the church.

“Our role as a church is to encourage these young people to do their music to the glory of God. And doing it to the glory of God means pursuing excellence in their art. We also have a mandate to give these young people a platform to show case their talent and help them thrive in their endeavours.”