Chronicle Editor
Panashe Marijeni, Sunday Life Reporter
SABOTAGE and under-recognition of Bulawayo DJs and artistes continues to hold back upcoming stars and has led to the demise of local talent.
At least that is the gospel according to Nkazimulo Ncube aka DJ Iyzee.
The journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step and it was with DJ Iyzee, who discovered his passion for music from a very young age.
“I would mix songs using an Android application on my cellphone and my love for musical melodies grew every day,” he said, explaining it ignited a fire within him that continued to push him.
Even as a child, he was drawn to the captivating melodies and heartfelt lyrics. Music became more than just sounds and beats to him as he started his musical journey.
“The music chose me,” said Iyzee as the rising star took us through the roller-coaster of his imagination. Listening to his live mix was a mind-blowing experience, the young beat master is truly a giant on the decks inspired and mentored by local star, Kotwane Hikwa.
Despite the positive impact from other DJs Iyzee has experienced challenges along the way, just like any talented young man in Bulawayo.
He has suffered sabotage and has been neglected by promoters as well as senior DJs in the city.
“On a random Monday I went to a club here in Bulawayo to showcase my talent and we agreed that I will have a time slot on Saturday evening. When the day came I set up my machines and was ready to play but because the resident DJ was intimidated by my skill, he refused to let me play,” he said.
One of the only solutions that has saved most careers in the dog-eat-dog world of the music industry is relocating to Harare and signing under the record labels there. For example, Calvin Mangena gained mass significance after he collaborated with various Harare-based artistes who include Holy 10, Voltz JT and Saint Floew in the song iHulumende which is currently sitting on one million views and was sponsored by Horizon Solar Systems and Mashwede Holdings.
From 1,7k views a year ago Calvin’s YouTube viewings have spiralled up to 105k views in two weeks for a track titled Khwela Langa featuring Harare-based artistes Nyasha David and Nutty O. Iyzee is hoping to follow a similar blueprint of success.
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