adminWHEN music fans pay to attend shows, all they want is value for their money.
Musical shows should create memories to be cherished for years.
Fans attend shows to ease their sorrows and also to catch up with their peers.
Most fans save and invest a lot before attending high-profile gigs or themed parties.
The euphoria created during the build-up to high-profile events should never be taken lightly.
Fans can even go to extremes to ensure they attend such high-profile events.
Some borrow money to enable them to attend such events while others are bailed out by their peers.
This shows that paying fans are serious with their artists.
However, the script is horribly changing on home turf where artists are taking fans for a ride.
The majority of entertainers we have are not punctual, when it comes to their shows, while their levels of commitment on stage are questionable.
It’s also evident that most artists don’t even hold rehearsals, before their events, as shown by poor coordination.
This is now rife in Zim Hip Hop and, to an extent, in Zim dancehall circles where live performances have become a circus.
In yesterday’s issue, we carried a story where flamboyant rapper Desmond “Stunner” Chideme and blogger Plot Mhako blasted some artists, who are taking paying fans for granted.
Stunner highlighted that poorly prepared artists have always found the going tough, on stage, by failing to take control of proceedings.
The rapper said it was high time promoters, and event organisers, stamp their authority to ensure they don’t short-change fans.
He further warned events’ organisers that they risk the wrath of fans if this decline is not arrested.
Irate fans have the potential to cause havoc, during live shows, when they feel they are being short-changed.
Some fans have gone to the extent of throwing missiles onto the stage in protest against poor performances and technical glitches.
It’s sad to note that some of the artists have taken their shortcomings to foreign lands where they have been attacked for their poor performances.
Local artists should emulate the likes of Winky D, Jah Prayzah and Alick Macheso who believe in professionalism.
The trio does not appear on stage if what has been agreed on paper is not met.
Winky D is the one who is very particular about his set.
He prioritises sound quality as well as lighting and the stage set-up.
Winky D, who is on record for equating the stage to a CEO’s office, should be applauded for his quest for professionalism.
The Ninja president would rather reimburse the promoter, once his demands are not met.
This should be the norm with all the artists who are holding live shows.
Professionalism, dedication to work and upholding the standards should always be the guiding principle.
It’s not too late for our artists to change to ensure they please paying fans who bring food on their tables.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter