Online Reporter
The Herald 10 June 1985
THE Zimbabwe Union of Musicians has hailed as a milestone the announcement last week of the first minimum wage for the Industry.
ZUM president Cde Green Jangano said the mandatory $200 and $143,75 for musicians performing in the urban and rural areas respectively constituted a “starting point in the attempt to accord artists in Zimbabwe a decent living”.
Although falling short of ZUM demands during consultations with labour officials, Cde Jangano said he hoped the awards would encourage artists to check the “wanton exploitation” that had characterised the entertainment sector for years.
While it is normal in show business to work odd hours Cde Jangano said he was aware of colleagues performing gigs from 6pm to 3am for no extra pay.
“Certainly in such cases they must be awarded overtime allowances,” he said, adding that artists, like workers in other sectors had to be categorised for purposes of pay.
A minority of the musicians, already earning about the stipulated rates, had expressed concern that some sponsors might seek to out their salaries.
Cde Jangano dismissed such fears as unfounded. “A musician is never an employee; an established artist can only now bargain for more”.
The union would soon launch wide-ranging educational programme to inform members how to enter contracts, run bands and about co-operative management and the role of the union.
Lessons for today:
The establishment of a minimum wage for musicians was a significant milestone in ensuring fair compensation for artists. Today, the importance of fair pays and proper contracts remains crucial, as artists continue to advocate for their rights and fair treatment.
The role of the Zimbabwe Union of Musicians (ZUM) in advocating for better conditions and pay for musicians underscores the importance of unions and collective bargaining. Unions help protect artists from exploitation and provide a platform for negotiating better terms.
Despite the progress made, the passage acknowledges that improvements were still needed. This reflects the ongoing challenges artists face in achieving financial stability and recognition. Today, artists continue to find innovative ways to earn money, such as through digital platforms like Youtube, Tik Tok, Facebook, live performances, and collaborations with other musicians even from outside the country.
