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Tawanda Marwizi Arts Correspondent
Sungura musician Josphat Somanje has blamed Zimbabwe Music Company, his record stable for failing to market and distribute his latest album “Humbowo”. In an interview, Somanje said he engaged the stable on several occasions but they failed to take action.
“People just read about the album in the Press and on radio but there are no copies because the record company does not have a marketing strategy that can benefit us as artistes,” he said.
He said people were calling from different parts of the country asking about the album.
“I have received several calls from fans in Zaka and Masvingo enquiring about the album but it seems ZMC are not doing anything,” said Somanje.
He said the company was letting him down since he felt the album is good.
“I have worked very hard in ensuring that the music is good but now the company is letting me down,” he said.
Somanje said he would continue engaging the record company so that they improve their marketing and distribution.
“I called them and they are saying the album is now available at their shop in town. They should also introduce mobile outlets so that our music reaches out to the people,” he said.
ZMC managing director Emmanuel Vhori said he would not comment on the matter but called for a round table meeting with Somanje.
“You have to bring him for a roundtable meeting so that we discuss what marketing is because it seems as if they are failing to understand,” he said.
Asked if Somanje had raised his concerns with them, Vhori was unwilling to take a position.
“I cannot confirm or deny but like I said I we have to sit down and discuss so that they can understand where I am coming from,” he said.
The six-track album has songs “Humbowo”, “Mweya Wekuda Vakadazi”, “Zvawaroorwa”, “Darimoto Yanewone”, “Mukore Kore” and a gospel track “Munesimba”.
Somanje hit the big time with the release of hit songs such as “Handibvume”, “Maggie Mukaranga” and “Abigail Wangu”.
Online Reporter