The Harare Bias : Let's Discuss
If you have been a fan of local music for years like me, you have probably came across the topic about Harare Bias. It seems there is an unwritten rule that one has to relocate to the Capital to get recognition and respect among peers and fans.
Is this Bias true?? Can another artists really make it while based out of Harare?? How many artists in the past 20 years have managed to achieve constant success whilst based out of Harare??
I believe the bias is true and it needs to be addressed if the arts sector is to truly develop. There is need for diversity; both of artists and sound to push the arts sector forward.
Is this Bias true?? Can another artists really make it while based out of Harare?? How many artists in the past 20 years have managed to achieve constant success whilst based out of Harare??
I believe the bias is true and it needs to be addressed if the arts sector is to truly develop. There is need for diversity; both of artists and sound to push the arts sector forward.
One of the major reason for this Bias is the economic inequality between cities and towns, Harare is economically superior hence it has more professional studios and also the residents have more to spend which is why all the biggest shows are held in Harare. However the Capital city does not have monopoly in the talent department.
Also there is an issue of ethnic inequality, Shona is the most spoken language and to millions its the only language they know so music that is sung in any other language is never given much weight.
Currently and Historicaly only Bulawayo poses a challenge to Harare, its a very artistic city and over the years it has challenged the status quo like it is doing now with artists like Asaph, Djembe Monks, Skaiva but will it suceed of it will be just another failed trial.
It's a tricky scenario but one I feel we need to discuss and come up with effective strategies to overcome.
Let's discuss, share your comments on the issue in the comments section below.
Also there is an issue of ethnic inequality, Shona is the most spoken language and to millions its the only language they know so music that is sung in any other language is never given much weight.
Currently and Historicaly only Bulawayo poses a challenge to Harare, its a very artistic city and over the years it has challenged the status quo like it is doing now with artists like Asaph, Djembe Monks, Skaiva but will it suceed of it will be just another failed trial.
The licensing of many regional radio stations will help break the DJ favouritism complain. The emergence of social media platforms has also cut the middle men (DJ's, Presenters) and linked artists directly to fans. These advancements will definitely help breaking the bias but the question is will they be successful?, will they make up for the financial inequality or will it help overcome the ethnic issues the nation faces and make all ethnicities equal???
It's a tricky scenario but one I feel we need to discuss and come up with effective strategies to overcome.
Let's discuss, share your comments on the issue in the comments section below.
Proud_Zimbo
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