With the Lockdown and events postponed and some cancelled, local artists are using this time to enhance their craft.
Mpumalanga News spoke to a few people in the entertainment industry to find what they’ve been up to.
MC, Khazana King Harris:
When you’re an independent artist and you’re not making any money, you sacrifice your whole life to do live events which are the heart of the entertainment industry.
The Covid-19 has put many artists, booking agents and promoters in a difficult spot. Many people depend on them to pay rent and taking care of other responsibilities.
During this Lockdown I started blogging on my Instagram page preparing for my YouTube channel which is what has been keeping me busy during the past weeks. The aim of the channel is to help local artists to promote their work online for the duration of the Lockdown.
DJ, Trevor Dee:
I’m busy working on my EP which will be out on September 14, my birthday with the likes of KingLay, Toffee Brown and Mpho Fortune.
People should expect a deep and soulful sound, nothing else. I, Sheejay Zoe and Kingharris will be hosting an Online Party Episode 1 this Saturday with the best local acts. It’s safer to stay and party at home than to catch the virus.
Former SA Idols winner, Karabo Mogane:
I’m exercising a lot, reading, planning for work ahead after the Lockdown and praying. Keeping safe for me includes watching movies and video calling family as much as I can.
Musician, Princess Indlovukazi:
The Lockdown has given me time to create different sounds for my songs. I’ve been interviewing beat-makers and and producers who can create something unique for me. I’m writing as well, but I’m not under pressure or any rush to release a single. I’m also enjoying being Mrs to my hubby.
Musician, Phumla Music:
All gigs were cancelled and I had to refund 70% of the money for bookings back to the service providers until further notice.
I currently am not making a living from performances, but digital and online, as well as royalties.
I am in my studio, recording as many songs as I can so that after the Lockdown, I will be ready to release them.
Musician and actor, Nick Soul:
It’s a difficult time but I’ve tried sticking to my daily routine and making time to exercise. This is also a time for getting to know myself and to reflect back on the work I’ve done. I have time for all the projects I’m planning to work on are solid. We’ve never experienced this before, being locked down in the house, but we will endure. It’s not a pleasant time for everyone, especially those living under harsh conditions. I feel and pray for those sharing a house with many other people and cannot even quarantine on their own due to circumstances.
We can take something positive out of this by working hard, trying out new things, challenging ourselves and being present on social media to connect with different with people. We just have to make it work.
