By Rinelda Mouton
Some Namibian artists say they are increasingly being excluded from events, leaving many without income and cutting them off from opportunities to engage with their supporters.
At the same time, event organisers argue that some musicians have become difficult to work with, accusing them of arriving late, performing while intoxicated, delivering poor shows and displaying unprofessional behaviour that damages events.
Charles-Venee Mieze, organiser of the Meat and Beer Festival, said financial constraints also play a role in the decision to reduce performances at some events.
“The behaviour and attitude of an artist affects the event’s reputation. Sometimes audiences might not attend an event because a certain artist is appearing at the event. Such acts are bad for business as attendees leave the event unsatisfied. This affects the event because fans criticise it,” Mieze said.
He added that intoxicated artists should not be allowed on stage, warning that organisers invest heavily in events and cannot afford reputational damage. “Organising an event is a very stressful process and it is the dream of every organiser to have a successful event. If the event creates a bad image because of artists then the event will suffer too,” he said.
Despite the criticism, Mieze acknowledged that artists remain the biggest attraction at most entertainment events.
“Artists are the crowd-pullers and that is how events make money. Artists need to stay on stage so they are not forgotten by fans.”
Multiple award-winning gospel rapper D-Naff, whose real name is Naftalie Shigwedha Amukwelele, said many musicians rely entirely on performances to survive.
He warned that fewer bookings are pushing artists into financial distress and emotional struggles.
“Most musicians depend entirely on their craft and the means of sustenance is maintained by the income that comes from performances. When there is a lack of performances among musicians, depression and mental health is- sues are inevitable,” D-Naff said. He stressed that music plays a vital role in preserving national identity and culture.
“We must be focused on building our nation. Our music is part of culture. Musicians tell stories of our people. Music travels faster than spoken words because music is spiritual. Musicians should not be ignored because we end up losing our identity as a nation,” he said.
Award-winning singer and song- writer Ann Singer, born Annastasia Linus, said removing artists from events limits their income, exposure and long-term growth.
“Performances are a big part of how artists connect with audiences and sustain careers. Removing performances takes away opportunities for artists. This is concerning because music is a key part of the atmosphere at events,” Ann Singer said.
The “Bulletproof ” hitmaker added that live performances help artists build visibility, strengthen fan relationships and grow their brands.
“Supporting local musicians benefits the whole entertainment industry and the country at large because artists are ambassadors of the country. Event organisers and artists should work together to keep the culture alive and help sell Namibia to the world,” she added.
