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Tinopona Katsande

Peter Tanyanyiwa : Arts Correspondent

Music house Kenako Muzik took new music to the people through a listening party that was held recently. Public relations officer for Kenako Muzik, radio and television personality Tinopona “Tin Tin” Katsande said there were still many loopholes in the growth of the Zimbabwean music and this is what prompted Kenako Muzik label to pioneer is hosting listening parties .“The idea of the listening parties is in tandem with international norms in the music business and aimed at promoting the artist, the album and the label,” said Katsande.

The parties are industry events which are not open to public but to the key players in the growth of the music industry including media, music critics, radio and club DJs, advertising agencies, corporates, producers and other music labels. The listening party was well attended and evoked much excitement from the industry players that were present.

Popular Power FM DJ Rumbi Chamvary applauded Kenako Musik for taking such a bold and much needed initiative .

“This is exactly what our music industry needs. Artists must understand that the success of an album is largely determined by the promotion put before the album is launched. It is not just about launching and then waiting for the public to respond to it.”

Most musicians who are on the “Hybrid Compilation” album were present and would introduce their songs and explain what they had in mind when they wrote the song.

Some of the musicians who graced the event are Exq, Roki, Ras Caleb, Virimai Chigariro, Derrula Mambokadzi and Fungisai Zvakavapano-Mashavave. Kenako Media Executive chairman Peter Gwaza thanked all the people who worked tirelessly for the “Hybrid Compilation” to be a success.

“I want to thank all the stakeholders who helped throughout the compiling process and I want to urge them to keep working hard. Kenako is here to change the Zimbabwean music industry for the better,” said Gwaza.

One of the tracks that got people on their feet was by Exq and Roki titled “Kilos”.

Many commented on the artistes’ delivery and said it was exceptional. Fungisai also came in strong with her track titled “Dzimurai Moto” on the compilation and Trevor Dongo did “Shoko Rerudo”.

The Zimbabwean music industry definitely needs more of these listening sessions as they help critics and musicians to share ideas before albums are released.