Waters Talks Triumphs and Trials on the Global Stage
• By Martha Nangombe
Namibian singer-songwriter Harry Mutambo Tjipueja is basking in the glory of his latest achievement and opens up about the challenges and triumphs of Namibian musicians on the international stae. In a candid discussion, Waters sheds light on the perception of Namibian music and emphasizes the importance of producing music that meets international standards and resonates globally.
“Our people feel Kwaito is Namibian because of icons like Gazza and King TeeDee; they see Tate Buti’s music as authentic because it’s in the vernacular, even though it has a Kwasa influence. The lack of a unique genre poses a challenge, and due to this, Namibian music is not played on an international level, so we need to start striving to elevate our music in terms of production and sound,” he noted. Waters couldn’t hide his pride when discussing his nominations. “It’s a great honour to be nominated for these awards. They showcase the commitment of my team in promoting my talent across different countries,” he said.
Known for infusing local Namibian dialects such as Otjiherero into his music, Waters stands tall as a cultural ambassador, bringing a unique flavour to the global music scene. Shimbayu Chivuno, Waters’ manager, highlighted the importance of ensuring that local music is played on radio stations as a crucial step in the right direction.
“In developed countries, chart success and award nominations are often tied to radio and TV popularity. “How will it be in South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, and beyond if we can’t get our songs played locally? Radio play is a vital measure of an artist’s reach.
“We have travelled extensively, networking and getting our artists’ music on radio and TV in other countries. Recently, Waters spent a month in Zambia, performing for free alongside top Zambian artists. This dedication paid off with a feature from Yo Maps, Zambia’s biggest artist, and a headlining spot at the Zambian Music Awards,” he stated. Chivuno also stressed the importance of submitting music and profiles for possible nomination as a gateway to the international market.
“The path to recognition is paved with relentless effort. You have to submit your music and profiles for nominations, and there’s a voting process. Many here don’t push their artists that far. “We are fighting day and night to open doors for other Namibian artists. Many focus on club perks like free alcohol instead of pushing their brands and music. They don’t build relationships with the media, which is crucial for growth. Print media, TV, and radio remain the most powerful tools,” he added.
Despite the challenges, Waters remains optimistic. His nominations in Kenya are a testament to his hard work and dedication. As he continues to break barriers and push Namibian music to new heights, Waters is paving the way for future artists to follow.