WHAT’S CAUSING ALL THE MAYHEM AT LIVE SHOWS
REGISTERED music promoters and events managers reckon that planning boobs, late kick-off and shoddy performances have fuelled violence during live shows.
In recent years, a number of musical shows have ended prematurely with some artists being pelted with missiles on stage.
In 2020, machete-wielding thugs in Chegutu detained Shinsoman and forced him to sing one song — Mawayawaya — for more than an hour. The late Soul Jah Love was also attacked.
Last weekend, Holy Ten had a nightmarish outing in Zvishavane after he was attacked on stage.
Tich Mharadze, of Odyssey Entertainment, believes real promoters should safeguard artists’ lives while the musicians should take their jobs seriously.
“Shows are expensive to organise so we advise fellow promoters, or event organisers, to invest in security.
“Our artists should also perform properly even if there are few people in the house.
“We won’t mention names but my message is clear,” he said.
Partson “Chipaz” Chimbodza, believes there is a need for proper regulation of the sector.
“Firstly, the industry needs to be run in a professional manner starting with the registration of promoters.
“Secondly, the arrangement between the promoter and artists should work in favour of fans.
“Thirdly, promotion is business and once everything is above board such incidents can be avoided.
“In short, both the promoter and artist should be professionals for a better artistic future,” he said.
Digital creator and talent scout, Plot Mhako, said violence should be condemned in its strongest terms.
“It is very very sad and unfortunate to see that our artists are getting attacked whilst performing.
“It is a culture that has been growing over the years and has remained unchecked. We have tolerated it by not putting an end to such,” he said.