Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
MUSICIAN Tocky Vibes has revealed that he incurred a loss in excess of US$25 000 following an ill-fated album launch, which was a monumental flop at Alexandra Sports Club in Harare on Saturday.
His new album, “Mashangurapata,” was unveiled in a disappointing manner, as only a handful of revellers turned up at a venue the organisers believed would be filled to capacity.
Tocky had assembled a star-studded lineup featuring popular acts such as Killer T, Feli Nandi, Oriyano, Tamy Moyo, Kurai Makore, Seh Calaz, Silent Killer, and Andy Muridzo.
There has been raging debates on social media on what might have gone wrong with the most common conclusions being that he suffered from counterattractions and that he might not be as popular, for live shows, as the views on You Tube and popularity on radio stations suggest.
Now Tocky Vibes has come out to say the weekend experience served as a harsh wake-up call, but they are now even more determined to move forward.
He will now organise a free show for a second launch of the album, and they will use the event to engage with the audience.
In an industry where seasoned musicians typically pursue every cent, Tocky, known for the hit “Usakande Mapfumo Pasi,” is taking an unusual route by organising a complimentary performance.
Tocky’s manager, Temptation “Mount Zion’ Chirenje, assured fans that the artiste will host a free show at a venue to be confirmed.
“Despite our financial loss and criticism on social media, we are more committed than ever to reconnect with our fans. We want to offer an opportunity for those who may not afford to attend his shows to come and enjoy the music,” Chirenje emphasised.
“We wished for our fans to be there last weekend, but many were unable due to various circumstances.
“We keep moving forward and refuse to lose hope after facing such hurdles. Currently, Tocky is focused on creating more music, which he prefers,” he added.
The team believes Tocky is in a positive mindset and actively composing new songs.
“It’s not uncommon for such situations to arise in the music industry, but we choose to persevere and continue producing music,” the manager stated.
“Tocky is a resilient individual who will always push through. He remains undeterred by last weekend’s incident, understanding it’s just part of the journey.
“He followed the correct procedures by booking the venue well in advance, making it impossible to change locations or dates after all expenses were settled.”
Chirenje, a steadfast supporter of the versatile chanter, said they won’t be swayed by online trolls.
“In this era, online criticism is prevalent, but we know we must move on, especially after investing over $25000 in the show. Everyone was compensated, and we owe nothing to anyone; we simply didn’t anticipate the event’s outcome. Unfortunately, it was too late to make changes.”
With Harare’s showbiz scene saturated last weekend, the manager acknowledged that they could not prevent fans from attending other events, such as the free 25th Chibuku Road To Fame at Gwanzura Stadium, or the Jacaranda Festival at Thornpark Polo Club featuring popular artists like Winky D and Killer T.
Chirenje admitted these competing events affected attendance at Tocky’s launch but reiterated that postponing was not a feasible option.
“We considered various factors but couldn’t justify further investment in postponement. Sometimes, we must accept the situation and regroup.”
He expressed gratitude for the moral support received from fellow musicians and promoters following last weekend’s setback.
“It’s uplifting to be surrounded by supportive individuals who offer encouragement. We’ve received many messages from artists who have faced similar challenges,” he highlighted.
Despite the loss and social media ridicule, Tocky’s team remains resolute.
Although his event is being considered a contender for the “Flop of the Year,” Tocky is a talented musician and hard worker.
Raised in Rugare, Harare, Tocky has consistently demonstrated his outstanding potential and willingness to take risks, as evidenced by last weekend’s bold endeavour, even if it did not yield the desired results.
From the stage setup to sound and lighting, Tocky proved he is not only a musician but also has the potential to be an events planner, despite being let down by poor attendance.
Some critics argue that misjudgments in marketing or timing may have contributed to his challenges, while others believe he was simply unlucky and should remain optimistic for future events.
Neutral observers suggest that Tocky’s team should approach future endeavours with caution.
Mathew Masinge
Zim dancehall music is too trashy to withstand the test of time. New albums of this genre won’t attract too much interest in listeners who now prefer contemporary traditional beat. Zim dancehall music is immersed in uncouth and rude lyrics that are uninspiring and usually a once-off listening. The chanters are also associated with drugs as most of their music is popular with youths that are notorious for drug consumption. So it is not surprising that Torky Vibes faced such a challenge during his album launch. He is not the first Zim dancehall performer to face this kind of problem and he is not going to be the last.