Art.
Yes, it began as a hobby but now it's a dream we as artists hope it'll put bread on the table someday.
Promoters.
Stop gambling with the food of our children and families. We are out here working and sweating blood. Daily we are trying to master the art of being superstars, but you see only profits from our dreams.
Guys, that's ice cold.
So, let me tell you my experience.
On a Saturday of the 6th of August I and a good friend of mine DJ Crocnova attended a gig at Edam, Ngonini where Mgarimbe was supposed to headline.
Crocnova was booked or should I say negotiated to perform without any upfront fees and he agreed because like all Swazi artists, his heart is in a good place.
We went there, the DJs took turns on the turntables and a crowd of less than 30 people cheered. It was so embarrassing.
The problem began when the organisers were supposed to pay. The atmosphere changed, the morning air got more moist from the sweats of men. Artists demanded their pay which was nowhere to be found as this show never sold any ticket because of poor marketing and promotion. But, he who has laboured has earned and so were the DJs.
Things got more tense. Hands were laid on the organisers but no money came out except for the eminent Twins Of A Kind who trait their kind. On our way there we were transported but our return was most devastating. We had to roughly confiscate the organisers' identity card as leverage for Crocnova's payment, and hike our way back to the house.
Not that the organisers didn't have money, they did have it. But, like most event organisers, arrogance is their number one principle.
Comments
Post a Comment