04 Nov 2014

Upcoming artistes and other individuals who wish to venture into the music industry are advised to remain committed, patient and develop a high sense of self-esteem so as to achieve their target goals.

Chairperson of Botswana Music Union Chapter 3, Thapelo Maleka said in an interview that the music industry could be hard to penetrate. However, he noted that with clear goals, focus, determination as well as work hard can help one to succeed even if challenges crop up.

“Music industry is not as easy as others might think; it is not only about singing and recording. It requires hard work, dedication, discipline and patience. It also takes a good deal of creativity and passion to make a mark in this industry,” he said.

Though music was generally viewed as a way to entertain people, it could be used to diversify the economy and it could also improve livelihoods, he said.  He also urged artistes to always come up with good quality work that can be of interest.

“Music is an artistry that can be used to transform and improve livelihoods if well executed.  It can be a means to keep people especially youth from being unproductive and ending up indulging in criminal activities,” he said. 

He stressed that it was important for artist to desist from using vulgar language in their lyrics, adding that the responsibility of gaining recognition should always lie with them conducting themselves in a tolerable and respectable manner.

Maleka noted that a lot of youth have shown much potential in the music industry, but lack of commitment, foul behaviour and alcohol abuse always hampers their potential.

However, he advised artistes to always seek advice and guidance from relevant stakeholders, adding that it was important for them to consider empowering themselves academically as the world of arts can be unpredictable. 

He also said artistes should familiarise themselves with codes of Copyright Society of Botswana. ENDS