Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
ZIMDANCEHALL ‘general’ Sniper Storm believes the new crop of artists is not only striking the right chords but also monetising their work.
The chanter acknowledged that social media and the easier documentation of works on various platforms have ushered in new stars.
Currently touring the United Kingdom alongside Jah Hanief, Sniper is happy with the emerging talent.
“I am one person who will always appreciate those who are doing well, like Hulengende, Junior Spragga, and Mr. Attention, who represent a new generation of artists for the sterling job they are doing,” said Sniper.
“I always follow their work, and it is interesting to note that they now command a huge following and are monetising their efforts. As an industry, we must embrace this new wave and support them.”
He noted the changing dynamics compared to the era when they began urban grooves before it evolved into Zimdancehall.
“In my case, I don’t regret anything but we should acknowledge that things are different now compared to when we started. During our time, it was hard to get studio time, and shooting videos was another major challenge.
“Nowadays, you can move around with your camera person who can live stream your performance, easily reaching many people in a short time,” he said. Sniper also challenged artists from his generation to embrace technology, even though most of their performances and recordings were not documented.
“It’s never too late for the artists of my generation to start repackaging their work and documenting it if they have any.Of course, most of our shows were not recorded, but in my case, all my music is now online and I will keep pushing.
“The only difference between us and this new crop is the energy levels, which remains a concern for most of us.”
He added:“What I don’t regret is that we paved the way and that should be the norm – where generations pass the baton of success from one to the other.
“I am always in touch with some artists from my generation like Roki and Ngoni Kambarami, reflecting on the changing times and what we need to do for relevance’s sake.
“We are not doomed, we simply sang in the wrong era when we heavily relied on radio and other platforms to push our work. Now, life has been made easier by technology. This could be the reason why many of the new kings and queens of urban contemporary music are doing exceptionally well.
“I am proud of them and, of course, of the guys from my generation.”
With three shows lined up in February – beginning with Stoke on Trent tomorrow, followed by Derby on February 13 and Leeds on February 20, Sniper believes he has been afforded another chance to assess his relevance and that of the artists from his generation.
“I came here a few weeks ago and the response I’ve been receiving from fans has been overwhelming.
“There are people who still regard us as superstars because they knew about our music before they left for the United Kingdom. We must also acknowledge that there are young Zimbabweans born here who love the music of this new generation that came after us, which is quite pleasing.”
Sniper is well-known for hits like “Love Yemusoja,” “Tsvigiri Muhuchi,” and “Hubhinya,” among others.
Peter Tanyanyiwa