BY FREDDY MACHA
In 1973, Bob Marley, Jamaican legendary musician, sang in Trench-town Rock : “One thing about music when it hits you, you feel no pain. So hit me with music now.”
Music unites, relaxes and is a universal language. With that said, a lot of readers and folk alike have always wondered how we work as a musicians , overseas.
When I left Tanzania with Sayari band to represent our country in various festivals in Europe – summer of 1984, the notion of music was bands and lots of money.
Sure. But not the full picture.
First. What is music for?
For most, music is just for dancing. Music overseas has more wings. Genuine musicians approach this art -form as an activity that is enjoyed. Issue of money and fame is generally, secondary.
Music is used in religious settings, shopping centres, funerals, weddings, birthdays, while driving or working. Music is not just about dancing.
In 1980, the Cameroon musician and writer, Francis Bebey was booed at the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM). He performed solo, with just a guitar. Students at Mlimani were not used to that. On meeting Bebey, later in Europe I apologised as he was still offended (and shocked) by us Tanzanians.
The incident proved that music can be executed Solo (alone), trio (three musicians) or 16 piece band (like late Nigerian Fela Kuti with his Egypt 80)….
Over the years I have travelled, playing multiple instruments with bands- and across the world.
Most of us work with bands as “sidemen” – especially if you are skilled in multiple instruments – including singing. Brilliant Congolese musician – Lokua Kanza once backed Abeti Maskini, Manu Dibango and Angelica Kidjo.
Music offers variety of jobs, e.g. teaching, studio recording (session work) or for healing.
How do I personally work?
Hailing from a family where many played (parents recorded music in 1950s) I was encouraged, early.
I combined my love of literature with music, sometimes going solo to Tanzanian secondary schools.
Right now I do a combination of relaxing music, poetry, prose for the homeless, disabled or ill; prisons, schools, community centres, parties, the Carnival, clubs and bars. One of my albums is called “Constipation.” Sometimes I perform with my own Kitoto band. Recently, I played piano in a short film – song by Jamaican singer Harry Belafonte called “Day O.”
There is no single door for music, overseas.
Email: mtegowachui@gmail.com
You Tube Channel: kwasimutokalondon
