adminNkosilathi Sibanda
WHEN other promoters and record companies rush for popular musicians, TK Records is in the hunt for any local artiste ready to make a name in the traditional genre. TK Records, a new showbiz establishment based in South Africa, is entering the market with young musicians, unknown in the market yet eager to bring a new dimension to the industry.
Apart from concentrating on a genre that many music businesses shy away from, TK Records boss Thulani Khumalo said it was their responsibility to promote musicians that prefer to sing about culture and traditional issues.
He said young musicians are lured by contemporary styles most of which was alien to African communities and forget to attach the present cultural practice to the old.
“This is the reason we decided to groom those musicians who want to bring back the question of culture and African tradition. We want to build a brand of musicians who sing about culture but remain committed to apply modern trends.
“How many of our artiste still have the confidence to sing in vernacular? Even if talking about issues that are African, many will produce a song that you may think is American. At TK Records it is all about a unique African brand.”
Khumalo said before the end of this week, their studio will introduce Bulawayo musician Thandani Mlala’s new album Mantengwane.
Aptly titled as a dedication to Highlanders Football Club, the 13 track CD is a fusion of traditional songs with a maskandi, rhumba and electro house influence.
Already, Mlala’s album is a chart buster at Radio Zimbabwe and National FM before its official release.
“Mlala is paying homage to our traditional kings and to Bulawayo’s popular team Highlanders. In all the songs he touches on pertinent issues including sport as a vehicle for social cohesion, love and religion.”
Khumalo who also manages Mlala’s career said they would tap into Highlanders’ multitude of fans with the hope of distributing the album during the team’s matches.
“Thandani sang about Bosso and we hope the fans will like the album and support this musical endeavour to promote people’s everyday interaction with institutions and traditions that define our culture.”
Online Reporter