Online Reporter
Langalihle Mhiti
BINDURA-BORN musician Denzel Kambeu, popularly known as Denzman Music, has opened up on the struggles faced by upcoming artists.
He says money and industry connections remain major barriers to success.
The 22-year-old artist believes talented musicians can easily remain in the shadows if they fail to secure collaborations with established artists.
Denzman said although social media had made it easier for emerging musicians to promote their music, getting noticed remained a challenge.
“For one to become famous, he or she needs a collaboration with a well-known artist,” he said.
“Even if we try pushing our works on social media, it will not get the recognition we expect unless we collaborate with a well-known artist.”
According to Denzman, established artists already have loyal followers, making collaborations an important tool for upcoming musicians looking to expand their audience. He also revealed that finances were another major headache for young artists. “Sometimes we do not have the finances to cover a producer or a studio to record our songs,” he said. “Sometimes we find well-wishers who can pay for us for studios and producers.”
The young musician said producing music involved a lot of expenses, from studio time and producers to promotion and other requirements.
“Everything about music needs money and as an upcoming artist, I won’t have such money,” he said. Denzman said the financial burden could force talented artists to delay their projects or struggle to maintain consistency in releasing new material. He, however, expressed gratitude to people who have believed in his talent and offered him assistance along the way. The musician singled out Sunoh for special mention, crediting her for identifying his potential and continuing to push his music.
“I also want to thank Sunoh who saw potential in me and keeps supporting and pushing my music,” he said. For Denzman, such support is important because upcoming artists often have to build their careers without the financial backing enjoyed by established musicians.
He said there was nothing wrong with artists seeking help from well-wishers as they worked towards becoming financially independent.
“Sometimes we find well-wishers who can pay for us for studios, producers. That support really helps us,” he said. With hundreds of songs being released online every day, upcoming musicians have to find ways of standing out and attracting attention. Despite the challenges, the 22-year-old remains determined to make a name for himself.
He believes that with continued support, quality music and the right collaborations, he can overcome the financial and exposure challenges facing him and many other upcoming artists.
For now, Denzman Music is banking on his talent, supporters and determination as he works towards carving his own space in the local music industry.
