Mbongeni Ngema Says Today’s Artists Depend on “Technology And Trends”

Mbongeni Ngema Says Today’s Artist Depend on “Technology And Trends” – The iconic Mbongeni Ngema reveals, In his observation to the current artists of this day, there is the lack of work ethic, no time to learn the perfection of the craft.

They depend on technology and any influential movement making rounds. The 63-year-old proficient producer voiced out his thoughts on contemporary theatre productions. When he was talking to Daily Sun he expressed “I don’t go to the theatre anymore because I know what I’m going to see. It’s not good. It is half-baked,” he exclaimed

He has highlighted what the current generation lacks is patience when working on their craft, they rather shorten their rehearsal times to two weeks advancing to three, and decide to showcase to people on stage. And according to the veteran that is unacceptable. 

“The problem nowadays is they rehearse for two or three weeks and put it on stage. Year in and year out they produce mediocre productions.” We cannot deny his view on the matter is worth the ear, he produced the globally acclaimed musical motion picture Sarafina, which has received numerous accolades and awards. he has been in the industry for 40 years and his work is timeless and Sarafina is evidence of what quality work survives. “When I compose a song I’m not thinking about wanting to release a hit but to release a product that will reflect on the lives of African people,” he stated.

“My music is my legacy and that is the greatest thing,” Mbongeni said it took eight months to rehearse Sarafina! and Zulu took 24 months.“Today’s artist can’t even play instruments. They use technology to compile a beat.”
“Their music will not last because when a trend changes they struggle to adapt. I advise them to learn about music and its techniques, so their work can outlive them.”

Written by: Aphiwe Theodorah Mvinjelwa