16/11/2021
SANGIE – Princess of the Dance hall, Darling of the media............
Sangie, is arguably one of the few prominent, dancehall reggae female artist to have stepped on to the local music scene and consistently create material, resonating with both the youth and mature adult audience. Due to this street and corporate credibility, National Journal put her on a radar as one of the few artists worth having conversations with.
A week prior to contacting Sangie, AKA Angela Mbekeani for our social media, I tried to do some background check on-line and talking to people within her circle. A few were willing to talk on record but most wanted to seek consent from Sangie. Short story extended, we made contact with and she agreed to an interview. After a formalities, we set It up for a late morning conversation on a Saturday, in September, 2021 at Ginnery Corner in Blantyre.
Arrangements were made with our photography genius Salem Mtambo of Double EM pictures, plans for props and some water and snacks refreshments, you know the whole shebang. In reality, the process of interviewing people has shifted in the last 18 months, compliments of the “company,” COVID-19 and “his’’ restrictions. So, to meet face to face with Sangie seemed an excited prospect, an ideal sign that business is coming back to its normal.
When I called Sangie, on the day, however, her mobile went answered. In an attempt to redial, I dropped the call to review a notification on my phone’s application. I hadn't logged into WhatsApp messages for the day. So It turned out that an hour or two before a scheduled time she had reached out and sent a message. ‘’HI, I had a late-night appearance, could we reschedule for another day?” read the text.
I replied agreeing to a following Monday. However, on this day my team member had prior engagements and therefore could not make It for this anticipated interview. So much for planning yes? Fast forward a week, we came to a conclusion with Sangie to have either a virtual meeting or that she type send her responses to a prepared questionnaire.
Our goal at National Journal is to engage leaders from Government, Business and Institutions for detailed conversations preferably face to face. This allows us to gaze into the soul of their mind and extract some voluntary information that could not be given in a questionnaire. Well regardless, she responded to our questions. Among them, we asked Sangie, how this pandemic has affected her work and many other aspects of her life: following are responses from her”!!!
Sangie* COVID-19 has affected us all including we as artists. I lost a lot personally but it has taught me how to be creative and how to stay connected with the fans and everyone else. It has made me be appreciative of everything including life itself.
What has changed in the music industry since you stepped on to the scene?
Ever since my career started in 2013 it wasn't as it is now and we are not where we are meant to be as an industry but we are progressing.
What challenges do you face?
Every industry brings about both opportunities and challenges. What matters is how you go about it. Our industry is fun, you get to meet people. However. if not carefully handled the same people could also be a cause for your downfall. Sometimes it's sad and lonely but if you know what you aspire for you keep on moving.
There aren’t many high profile female artists in the country . What's your blue print for success?
We have many talented female artists in Malawi. I am humbled to be part of the collective. There is a sense that in this era, the female artist is more appreciated than before.
Who is your mentor in business, do you have someone in music or other leadership position?
I keep all my relationships private. I'm so appreciative of everyone who contributes to my well being. Be it from Business or corporate.
What wisdom would you impart to younger female artist wanting to enter the industry
My advice to my fellow youngsters who aspire to be artists here in Malawi would be; do what you gotta do so long as it brings peace and honour within yourself, God and man. Work extra hard, work with no regrets.
Social media and the internet, what is your take on these tools?
Social media and the internet have given us a chance to reach out to a wider range[of people] than ever before. It's an amazing tool if carefully used but it also brings about consequences.
What is your opinion about maximising financial opportunities in the industry?
Provoice's song Tunduma said it all. You have to go big on investing. Go big or go home!
Which performance stands our for you?
I have indeed performed at a lot of high-profile events but as an artist I respect, honour and cherish every moment of all the places I've been to.
Which artist would you like to collaborate with, within and outside Malawi?
I want to work with a lot of artists outside Malawi can't mention names but hopefully it happens soon. Life is too short.
What advise would you give to a younger version of you?
Looking back, I would tell Sangie five years back not to quit, put in more effort and that whatever happens don't stop keep moving forward. You're the strongest person I've ever met.
About yourself as an artist/person
I'm a very private person, I keep it to myself I mind my business, work hard and I respect (not worship) my peers and those above me.
Do you participate in sports activities ?
If working out is a sport then that's what I do.I used to play ‘’ball’’l but not anymore, somethings are no longer how they used to be.
What pressures are there to stick with societal norms?
There's a lot of pressure that comes with being an artist. You have to look, act and live somehow which affects one's work or life. There's a lot of lying and pretending which is sad for our generation.
What are your personal, music and business plans for the next twelve months?
Plans for the year, Business, release music and videos. Expand as a brand explore other entities. A lot coming up. Personal, make money, do good and staying healthy which I've been trying to do within these two years. Love and blessings!
Salute!!!!
…Ends…..
National journal MALAWI.
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