UK, Bulawayo artistes collaborate

Simbarashe Mutizwa Showbiz Reporter
COLLABORATION between United Kingdom and Bulawayo’s various up-and-coming artistes is on the cards with the UK-based artistes expected in the country on September 20.
The project, which has been named the ‘Makokoba project’, is a cultural exchange programme which will see artistes gathering at Makokoba township to record an album of completely new material.

The album will feature UK artistes Martyn Ware, producer AniffAkinola and rappers Rodney P and MC Fallacy. Local artistes will include Amasotsha, Gabsfire, NAZA, Awa, Au, Pololo, Psychotek, Break Equation, Spliffah Ray and Phar as well as top artistes from Harare, Ba Shupi&Dhadza D.

After recording the album in Bulawayo, the artistes will travel to Harare for a live performance of their new offering at the Shoko festival running from 25 to 28 September.

Besides recording an album, a number of activities meant to empower artistes from Makokoba including workshops and recording sessions have been lined up.
The project’s spokesperson, Tswarelo Motobi of District 10 music, said the project seeks to create a cultural hub in the centre of Makokoba township.

“This is the first project from “Change the record” programme by UK organisation – Agencia. To launch the project, Change The Record are taking four high profile UK artists to Makokoba township to work with a number of talented locals from Makokoba, Gwabalanda and some from Cowdray Park.”

AnifAnikola is a renowned vocalist, writer, producer and former label owner. He was signed to BMG publishing in 1989 by Caroline Elleray who went on to sign Coldplay, Keane and Take That.

Martyn Ware has featured on recordings totalling over 50 million sales worldwide producing Tina Turner, Terence Trent D’Arby, Chaka Khan, Erasure, Marc Almond and Mavis Staples.

Rodney P is seen as a godfather of UK hip hop and is one of the biggest names on the scene.MC Fallacy is a hip-hop pioneer who has had a glorious career navigating through the various musical genres that feature in UK street and urban cultures.