By Draxon Maloya
Malawi’s music scene was thrilled with excitement as the Copyright Society of Malawi (COSOMA) hosted a memorable royalty reward presentation ceremony in the capital city, Lilongwe on Thursday.
The highest height of the day came when legendary singer Jetu, arguably the country’s second-oldest musical star, took the stage to receive her well-deserved reward.
As she belted out her iconic hit “Unandisiya,” a Gen Z anthem, the packed auditorium erupted in cheers and applause, with some audience members visibly moved to tears.
Jetu’s powerful performance was met with a standing ovation from fellow musicians and spectators alike, acknowledging her enduring influence as the “old queen of hybrid music.”
The recognition was sweetened by a K1 million payout, which was unexpectedly doubled to K2 million by Local Government Minister Richard Chimwendo Banda, who was visibly thrilled by Jetu’s achievement.
This year’s ceremony saw a total of 97 musicians receive cash prizes exceeding K1 million, while other artists, including book writers and dramatists, took home substantial sums of up to K20 million.
COSOMA’s royalty distribution is a testament to the organization’s commitment to supporting Malawian creatives, having previously allocated K279 million in Blank Levy Royalties to its affiliated musicians.
The event serves as a reminder that age is truly just a number, and talent knows no bounds. Jetu’s legacy continues to inspire a new generation of artists, cementing her place in Malawi’s music history.
