It is important for local artists to be exposed to international space – not only to promote local music, but to showcase their amazing talents, said Joel Nambuli, the group coordinator of African Vocals.

African Vocals, a group started by five friends in Swakopmund, now comprises 19 singers from different ethnic groups. 

The group recently returned to Namibia after touring Germany for seven weeks.

“It was a tour of seven weeks with 42 concerts and several workshops in schools all over Germany. The feedback from the audience was just overwhelming, and it is so heartwarming to see how much Namibian culture and music is appreciated in Germany – much more than in Namibia,” said Nambuli.

He said he learned that there is a huge interest in Namibia, and many people visited the country, or plan on doing so in the future.

“Right now, one of our tour guest families is on tour in Namibia, and visited us in Swakopmund. We gave them a special township tour, and showed them our everyday life. They were so interested and excited to have an experience that tourists normally do not have,” said the excited artist.

He stated it was an unforgettable experience, getting insights into everyday life in Germany, and exchanging information and expertise.

The team has released three albums since its establishment in 2012, with the latest release barely two months on the shelf.

“It is very important for local artists as individuals to grow. The key to a musician’s life is to get exposed to the other world that they are not aware of to get more experience from outside, and build contacts mostly. This is financially motivating if well-managed,” he hinted. He indicated: “Our trip was a life-changing experience. You get to appreciate things like the audience. It gives you more confidence as a musician. You get to realise anything is possible. You can always become what you want to be – from being street boys of Mondesa who sing to be seen as celebrities”.

Manager of the African Vocals, Regina Hink, wished there was more support from the government for local artists, especially when they travel abroad. 

“After all, these artists are ambassadors for Namibia, and have the capacity to promote a positive image of the motherland, and to bring more visitors to Namibia. I think it is important for all artists to have international exposure, and have an idea about how other artists work and perform.  “But, it is not only important for someone as an artist, but also in general to broaden your horizon and to see things – also your home country – from a different angle,” Hink told VIBEZ!.

-psiririka@nepc.com.na