By Daniel Zimba
Rapper Tay Grin has challenged young people and fellow artists to fuse culture in their talents as part of elevating the country’s uniqueness.
The ‘Chipapapa’ star popularly known as ‘Nyau King’ for his passion for culture where he fuses the great dance known as Gule Wamkulu in his music, observes that utilizing art and culture is one channel that young people can play their role in contributing to the country’s development.
The artist, who has collaborated with several artists both local and international, said he has earned opportunities through his fusion of culture in his music.
“It is not only music but all other art disciplines, as young people, we are creative and innovative but we must not run away from utilising our culture because this is what makes us as Malawians; this is what can sell us outside,” he said.
He added: “It is more rewarding fusing culture in our talents. For example, I have travelled to several countries to perform and people love me because I am unique and I fuse cultural elements in my music.”
He said young people have shown their vibrancy in arts and that they must use it to promote and preserve culture which is losing its grip because of modernity.
The musician said cultural benefits are multifaceted including tourist attraction. Another creative, Temwa Banda concurred with Tay Grin in a separate interview emphasised the vital role arts fused with culture plays in national development.
Banda, who is the Executive Director of Luxe Lifestyle, a cultural movement, said young people have a role in promoting culture and development.
“Most young people in Malawi possess talents that can significantly impact development if fused with culture,” he said. Banda further said through his movement, he is striving towards promoting Malawian culture and that of Africa at large.
“As I recognise the significance of culture in development, I am striving to contribute through my movement. But it is important that as young people we should join hands” he said.
