‘Blackol Records’ helps local artists thrive in SA

Peter Tanyanyiwa

Registered recording label and publisher, Blackol Records has taken it upon itself to help upcoming (and established) Zimbabwean musicians not only record their music but also get the much needed airplay in South Africa.

The recording label's proprietors, Brian Masiyawo and Archford Mupuqua said that though they initially faced many challenges, they have since managed to make headway.

Established in 2012 and located in Cape Town, Blackol Records had always felt like home to many Zimbabwean musicians who have over the years made that great trek down south.

Blackol Production Manager Archford Mapuqua said their vision is to promote young Zimbabwean artists who are talented and help them excel in the music industry.

“We have realised that most of these artists can’t afford to hire or pay for big studios and often they don’t have the right equipment needed for their small production.

“Many young adults have a passion for the music industry and combined with talent we would like to heighten their passion for this and push them to become the best they can be", he said.

It is Maquqa's belief that their stable is at its peak at the moment and expecting to do more to help Zimbabwean musicians record and spread their music so they can establish themselves, especially thosé from a disadvantaged background.

“We hope to find young adults from disadvantaged backgrounds and create a better future for them and their families. I know that a hard beginning usually means an easy finish and I know that the road forth might not be easy but through hard work and dedication I foresee a bright future for the youth of today.

“Our mission is to make these young artists explore their dreams and expand their field of knowledge in music, by providing them with the right facilities, quality music and equipment. We want to get the youth off the streets and give them a better opportunity in the music industry, would like to focus on their strengths, passion and bring it out in their music. Most of them make their music in their back yards or in their rooms and I would like to give them the chance to be exposed to the public and become a success,” said the Blackol Production Manager.

With shortage of jobs, this has proved such a noble idea and will go a long way in taking youths off the streets.

Blackol records has worked with Roki, Shinsoman, Freeman and Randy Icey Snow and internationally they have recorded Chico from Jamaica,  Chibwa from Tanzania and Lambogini from Nigeria.