Leo Muzivoreva
Social media has been buzzing with creative performances from musicians – on their own – or with their neighbours since the coronavirus pandemic saw bars, restaurants and venues across the world shuttered, and social distancing measures enforced.
Since the coronavirus crisis began, everyone from Neil Young to Pink, has hosted shows for fans on their social media platforms. However, a few of these megastars are charging for the privilege – and few need to.
For musicians across Europe and beyond, the global lockdown has been a challenge. Live shows are the most obvious casualty, but the bread and butter for many musicians in most cases is teaching, session work, recording and producing music with bands. These activities have had to be cancelled as a result of the lockdown to curb the spread of the virus. For one musician, this has affected his tours and the progression of his music career.
I-Finton, a Germany based Zimbabwean has had his music career stalled by the novel virus.
In an exclusive interview with The Southern African Times, I-Finton shared his own experience and the impact that the virus has had on his career.
“I have channeled my energy into my music. I am lucky to have a recording studio in my house and this has helped massively.”
“After the lockdown restrictions are lifted, there are plenty of concerts lined up, which were postponed due to the pandemic. We are hoping to start filming a few music videos for some of my singles as well,” he said.
I-Finton said that he has also had the opportunity to put a few ideas together for his merchandise.
“By the end of the lockdown the team is hoping to have new products in our shop. Musically, I am working on my next album titled Only Reggae, which will be out in December.”
Born in Mutare, Zimbabwe, the reggae artist moved to Aachen, Germany more than five years ago and has taken the German music scene by storm, releasing his debut album Shamiso in 2019.
A self-taught guitarist, his first gigs were at prominent clubs around Mutare. He also got the opportunity to work with several local artists, including Munyaradzi Mundangepfufu, known to his fans as Sub Zee.
Finton’s renditions of popular covers by well-known reggae artists have received positive reviews from local and international artists and fans.
Since moving to Germany, he has performed regularly in the city and performed in Köln, Leipzig, Berlin, Münster, Münich and Hamburg.
He said going on tour was an eye opener and gave him the opportunity to work with, and meet different artists, producers and music scouts.
Speaking about the challenges of making it in the music industry I-Finton said that having a supportive family inspires him to work hard to provide for them.
Inspiring the next generation
The father of two encouraged upcoming artists to remain resolute and true to the music they want to make.
“Don’t compromise on your sound and remain humble. Be flexible and be willing to perform wherever and whenever until you reach your audience. Music is a journey. Keep learning and be open to advice from those who started where you are.”
