Chillspot Records’ blessing in disguise?
THE arrest and sentencing of Chillspot Records co-founders DJ Fantan and Levels along with promoter Dhama came as sad news to the Zim dancehall industry and ghetto youths at large.
The trio was sentenced to an effective six months behind bars by Magistrate Vongai Muchuchuti-Gowero after pleading guilty to violating Covid-19 lockdown regulations after hosting a super-spreader gig in Mbare on New Year’s Eve.
However, this could mark the beginning of another great chapter in their careers if we look at international trends, especially in Jamaica; the originators of dancehall music genre.
Fantan and Levels were arrested in the line of duty doing what they love; music.
The same music that puts food on their tables at a time the Covid-19 induced national lockdown has seen the closure of the informal sector, including the arts.
We do not want Covid-19 to spread , but measures to cushion artistes must be put in place. Going back to my submission, the caging can pave way for brighter days.
In Jamaica, master of song Jah Cure spent some time in prison and instead of breaking down, he wrote and released more songs and upon release, he was one of the most sought after artistes. So did Buju Banton who served 10 years and came out stronger.
In his own words: “I was buried alive, but still I am breathing.”
Vybž Karetel, who was sentenced to life in prison, still releases some of the top dancehall songs at the moment.
Dancehall fanatics have not forgotten about the Gažža leader as he continues to churn out hits behind bars.
These examples are to instil a positive mindset to the incarcerated music producers; they must not lose heart, but focus on the future.
They are both young and it is my hope that their skill can be well utilised in the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services music department.
Jail is not hell, but a rehabilitation centre and authorities must understand that these guys were remorseful and did not waste the court’s time.
Chillspot Records, also known as Mangoma Depot, can only come back stronger and bigger for the saying goe: “What doesn’t kill you only makes you stronger.”
According to Google, a depot is a place where large quantities of equipment, food or goods are stored
Chillspot Records has grown over years and as a depot, they are capable of releasing music from behind bars for they stored in large quantities.
Their come back, will stamp a bigger name on the local dancehall scene.