By Burnett Munthali
Reggae dancehall artist Anne Matumbi, also known by his stage name Nyakwawa, is living his dream in Jamaica, the birthplace of reggae music, where he has recently embarked on a journey that combines his passion for music with an exploration of the culture that gave birth to his genre.
Accompanying Malawi’s Labour Minister Vitumbiko Mumba on a private visit, Matumbi, alongside fellow artist Born Afrikan, found themselves in the heart of Jamaica’s rich music scene, soaking in the vibrancy of the island’s legendary reggae culture. One of the highlights of their trip was attending the highly anticipated “Intimate Concert” by the iconic Buju Banton at Plantation Cove, one of Jamaica’s most renowned venues for reggae and dancehall performances.
For Anne Matumbi, this visit to Jamaica is the realization of a long-held dream. The dancehall artist has been vocal about his admiration for reggae legends and the cultural influence that Jamaica’s music scene has had on his own career. The opportunity to witness the raw energy and authenticity of reggae firsthand is a powerful moment for the artist, further fueling his own artistic journey.
“It’s surreal to be here in Jamaica, the land of reggae and dancehall. I’ve always dreamed of walking the streets where the music originated, and now I’m living that dream,” Matumbi shared, reflecting on his experience.
The trip also allowed Anne Matumbi and Born Afrikan to engage with key players in Jamaica’s music industry. In particular, Matumbi had the chance to be interviewed by some of the country’s most prominent television channels, including CVM, Ire TV, and Onstage, where he was invited to speak on his journey in the music industry and the connection between Malawi and Jamaica through reggae music.
The legendary Winford Williams, known for his long-standing career in reggae television, hosted Matumbi on the popular “Onstage” program, where they discussed the evolution of reggae dancehall music and its global influence, particularly in Africa. Matumbi expressed his deep admiration for Jamaican artists and how their work has shaped the global music landscape.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to be here and share my story with Jamaican audiences. Reggae music is universal, and the messages it conveys resonate with people across the world,” Matumbi told Williams in the interview.
The private visit to Jamaica is more than just an artistic pilgrimage; it also represents a deeper cultural exchange. As Malawi continues to grow in its influence on the African music scene, particularly through reggae and dancehall, Matumbi’s connection to Jamaican culture is not only personal but also serves to create a bridge between the two nations.
In addition to attending Buju Banton’s concert, Matumbi and Born Afrikan were introduced to other key figures in Jamaica’s reggae and dancehall scene. This visit is expected to have a lasting impact on their musical careers, with potential collaborations and deeper ties between Malawi and Jamaica in the world of music.
For Matumbi, this trip is not just about furthering his musical career, but also about fostering greater recognition for African artists on the international stage. By being in Jamaica, he is gaining invaluable experience and exposure that will surely influence his work back home in Malawi.
Anne Matumbi’s journey to Jamaica marks an important milestone in his career, blending personal dreams with professional growth. His exposure to the heart of reggae culture, coupled with the opportunity to engage with legends in the music industry, solidifies his place as one of Malawi’s most exciting dancehall artists.
As Matumbi continues to make his mark in the global music scene, his experiences in Jamaica will undoubtedly inspire new music, collaborations, and a deeper connection between African artists and the birthplace of reggae. Through his journey, Matumbi is not only fulfilling his personal dreams but also contributing to the ongoing dialogue between African and Jamaican music cultures, ensuring that reggae’s influence continues to spread far and wide.
