Veteran gospel musician and producer Lloyd Phiri on Wednesday dared fellow seasoned artists to readjust and reclaim their space in the music industry.
The ‘Ndagwiritsa’ star, who is celebrating his 25th anniversary this year, said much as the spotlight is now on the current crop of artists, veteran musicians— both secular and gospel—still have space to showcase their work.
“The landscape is no longer the same; things have changed, not to mention fast-trending genres. But there is still space for veteran artists and I am happy that some have realigned themselves to fit the bill,” he said.
He said the industry needed a bite of music of various styles, including that of veteran artists, and called upon them to rise from their slumber.
“Many veteran artists have given up on music. That said, there are benefits online; all what is needed is for artists to start thinking digital to have our music online for downloads,” Phiri said.
He also zeroed in on the issue of music videos.
“Musicians are doing well, no doubt; we have beautiful music videos that are good for the eye and we need not to relax.
“In terms of quality of compositions, we are still lacking; we have room for improvement,” Phiri said.
Phiri also said because of economic challenges, some musicians were finding it hard to organise live performances.
“It is expensive to hold live performances and this is why some musicians are not active. There is a need for the corporate world to come in and support musicians,” he said.
The Lilongwe-based musician also said gospel musicians needed to keep the fire burning.
“I know things have changed but we, as gospel musicians, should be in the forefront when it comes to creating music that brings hope; songs that are there to minister the word of God. We should be in the gospel,” Phiri said.
Meanwhile, Phiri has said he is set for Silver Jubilee Celebrations, where he is set to also show a mini-documentary which will, among other things, highlight charity activities he has been doing.
The Silver Jubilee Celebration, to feature Phiri and The Happiness Voices, will take place on April 21 2025 at Bingu International Convention Centre in Lilongwe.
Phiri has eight albums to his credit and they include Musagwedezeke, N d a g w i r i t s a , N’kadangokhudza and Sikuthekera Kwanga
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