Pinehas NakazikoIn a time of doom and gloom, Namibians everywhere are longing for some good news and positive vibes.
The answer to all of this could be the coming of the ‘Messiah’.
Namibia’s most recognisable musician, Gazza, has been touting his latest work, ‘Messiah’.
The much-anticipated album will drop on 31 July.
“It was Nina Simone who said that an artist’s duty is to reflect the times, and the last three years have been very defining in many ways, from massive protests to a pandemic that caused much panic and confusion,” Gazza says. “’Messiah’ I think to some degree is about lending a voice and using my platform to inspire, entertain and motivate.”
He says he recently discovered the true meaning of the line “to whom much is given, much is expected”, or that “heavy is the head that wears the crown”.
Right after the first lockdown, Gazza says, he visited his last remaining paternal aunt to reflect on his life journey.
“We spoke extensively about our family history. We get lost in the city life, and I think ‘Messiah’ to me is a defining project, because I finally found the balance between understanding my culture and tradition, and sharing it with my music in a modern way that’s also not disrespectful,” he says.
His aunt will also feature on the songs, he says.
One song on the album which he says he enjoyed writing is titled ‘Moses’, which reflects on young people rising up and demanding a seat at the table.
Gazza is, however, tight-lipped about the rest of the album, but says it’s a 16-track album and that more will be revealed in the coming weeks.
“It’s good vibes, lessons learned, while I am using my platform to raise awareness on important issues. I think with this cloud of darkness hanging over everyone, ‘Messiah’ should also bring some positivity – a reason to dance and just find enjoyable moments. The beats are mad, it’s a lot of fun, too,” he says.
Over the next few weeks, Gazza will reveal the track list, which includes thrilling collaborations and other surprises, he says.
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