Artists’ union shocked at hip-hop brawl

THE president of the Oruuano Artists’ Union, Banana Shekupe, has expressed shock and dismay at the violence that left an artist and his friend injured during Blacksheep’s album launch in Windhoek two weeks ago.

The event landed hip-hop artist Jericho in hospital with stab wounds that were allegedly inflicted by GMP 411 editor Chris-Paul, also known as Krespo, and GMP dancers Dicksa and Dennis. Jericho was also hit by an oncoming vehicle, while his friend Anton Langbooi almost lost his middle finger in the brawl.
‘This is very bad for the industry,’ said Shekupe, calling for more discipline in the music industry and saying that such behaviour is discouraging sponsors from supporting such events in the future.
‘Artists are peaceful people. They work together. They are not aggressive,’ he said.
Shekupe called on the Police to protect artists at music shows.
‘Artists’ life are at stake,’ he said, pointing out that there is a lot of jealousy going around and that artists should avoid going to certain places.
‘What is the future of artists if there is no protection?’ asked Shekupe, stating that in other countries, they were better treated. He urged artists to consult the union if there are issues that need to be resolved.
‘We don’t want our artists to get killed,’ he said.
Last year, kwaito artist The Dogg’s face was scarred in an incident at a Windhoek nightclub. His alleged attacker claimed he was acting in self-defence. Both men laid charges of assault against one another.
City Police spokesman Marx Hipandwa says a Police presence at music performances can’t be guaranteed but the organisers of such events should follow the right procedures and apply for Police protection.
Hipandwa said it is impossible for the Police to be present at every event but if fights break out, they will intervene. – magreth@namibian.com.na