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THE month of June was a special one. It has always been for the youth in Africa. Much talk is centred on all that matters in young people’s lives. With June 16 being a grand day to place the youth on a peak of relevance in world politics, it is wise to bring back the discussion on youth entertainment.
The urban movement would like to define such art done by young people and meant to inspire the young. In focusing on this “special” group in society, we realise that showbiz, in whatever genre, is driven by the youth.
Hardly does art from old folks spark attention than that done by a teenager. In youth we find potential, talent and a future.
‘‘Catch them young’’ is the tune that any serious showbiz scene should dance to.
Young people are at the core of world entertainment and that is not disputable. Showbiz is counted as a multi-billion dollar industry. In Zimbabwe we are not yet there in the mega dollar business, but I am sure one day we will get there. Given ample resources and an enabling environment, young stars in showbiz will cash in heavily.
Years back it was inconceivable for young people to own and control the entertainment business. The means to that are open now. That means we are yet to feel the power of youth art.
Ask any celebrity artiste where they started. They all have fond memories of a humble, blameless start. Youth was the pedestal to their career.
At the touch of the dial, our radio stations play music done by youths, who are said to be up and coming. Of course the grand old greats have their share of airplay but, the listening community demands the voices of the youthful.
The biggest consumers in entertainment are the young people. Artistes know well that their paymasters are mostly those who are yet to get their first pay cheque. Bars, galleries, movie theatres, festivals and concerts are frequented most by people no older than 40 years.
This is what I have noticed in my few years as a consumer of the showbiz industry (I am yet to see a show with so many old people). Music by young people is defined by the crowds and cliques they run in. Kwaito, house and hip hop rank high in the ghetto. This is the kind of music that identifies with the way youth view the world.
Music personalities grew up in the high density suburbs. They provide models for how to act and dress. In celebrating youth in our society, let us not lose sight that they shape the future. No matter how hard it is to crack ground in the showbiz market, young artistes hold the future.
Examples of how young people have influenced entertainment and art are many. Last Saturday, Bulawayo marked World Music Day and it was an interesting experience. Youth were the focus of the commemorations.
There was no old people stuff coming out of those mics. As many bands played and so did individual artistes. Thanks to Alliance Francaise for the treat. Honestly, I was counted among those who did not know of a World Music Day.
The fete de la music, as world music day is defined in France, is meant to bring music out on to the streets. Who are in the streets? It is the youth of course.
Nowadays, youth’s contribution to music is met with mixed views. We have fans who think young people sing crap. The fact remains written in bold ink that there is an astonishing increase in music genres and subgenres since done by the young generation.
Celebrate youth and appreciate what this special group of people can do for the development of showbiz in Zimbabwe.
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Online Reporter