Malawi: Gwamba, Third Eye welcome new music bundle amid criticism

Launched on 3 March, the new bundles are part of a TNM partnership with the Nyimbozathu music download website and the Rediyo app, which is available on Google Play.

Gwamba, a well-known artist in the country, encouraged people to rally behind the new service. “It will indeed help than just free downloads. As artists, we need to support it,” he was quoted as saying.

It is reported that Gwamba has not seen a cent from his song ‘Better’, which has been downloaded more than 100 000 times.

Hip hop artist Hyphen expressed excitement about the new development, saying musicians had gained little from previous music downloads and that the new bundle would benefit them.

Some sections of Malawian society have blasted the development, citing high data costs. Third Eye, real name Mandela Mwanza, took to Facebook to condemn the critics. “All this talk about K200 for a song being too expensive is funny to me. Can’t even jump on a minibus with that let alone kiss the lips of an ice cold Frozy,” he wrote.

“First person to name me ten things K200 can buy except matches, cigarettes and masacheti will get K200 airtime from me.”

TNM CEO Daniel Makata said the new bundle was designed to promote local music. “TNM, as a truly Malawian brand, is keen to promote local music, which is woven into the Malawian culture,” he was quoted as saying by local media.

“This is why we say it’s great to dance. As a brand, we always strive to give our customers services or products that meet their needs. Therefore, we have introduced bundles that will give them the opportunity to connect with their lifestyle, business, aspirations, society, culture and behaviour through music.”

TNM public relations manager Akossa Mphepo said, “The bundles will also be subscribed via *202# and TNM Smart App under TNM smart social bundles. Customers will be required to download Rediyo App from a Google Play account. There are two bundles under Rediyo music bundle – Song Bundle *200*120# and Album Bundle *200*220#,” she said.