The official launch event for WAKATI album is also a charitable fundraiser to support the renowned visual arist – Augustino Malaba – who is one of the oldest Makonde masters. During his life, Malaba has produced amazing artwork and contributed to the cultural development and creative industries scene in Tanzania.
The album WAKATI would like to make a statement that we must take care of the older generation of artists and show our appreciation for their creative work. Therefore, proceeds from the sale of all CDs at this event, will go towards supporting his medical and living expenses.
As you know Wakati means “time” in Kiswahili. The songs on this album portray the essence of daily life from for local Tanzanians, with messages to encourage people to appreciate that time is precious and to live the moment. We should not wait until the last tree has been cut down, before realizing the importance of the environment for our sustenance. We should not wait until loved ones are gone, before appreciating the beauty of their presence. We should not wait until losing a job, before remembering how difficult it is to find another job. “Yesterday is the past, tomorrow is the future, but today is a gift - that’s why it’s called the present.” You only get one chance to appreciate and that time is now, it is your time, it is my time - let us not wait until time has past us by, only to discover what we have missed.
This album is the result of a creative process, traversing the musical combinations of afro-pop, bongo-fusion, reggae, and other local styles.