By Mikozibuzz
Malawi’s music industry has been buzzing with a recent dispute between Dr. Namadingo and the organizers of the Umodzi Music Concert, scheduled for November 17th at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC). The disagreement centers on a performance fee, with Namadingo requesting an additional MK4 million on top of the MK6 million already paid by the organizers.
The Backstory
As revealed in a recent Facebook post by Namadingo’s close friend and social media influencer Pemphero Mphande, the controversy began about two months ago when the organizers reached out to Mphande for Namadingo’s contact details. After providing the number for Namadingo’s booking assistant, Joe Makhuwira, a quotation for the performance was submitted, and a fee of MK6 million was agreed upon and paid in full.
However, after seeing the concert’s promotional poster, Namadingo informed the organizers that the MK6 million they had paid was not sufficient for an event of such scale. He claimed that the concert warranted a fee of MK10 million and requested an additional MK4 million to proceed with the performance.
Organizers’ Response
The organizers, in no uncertain terms, refused to pay the extra MK4 million. Following this, Namadingo took to social media to announce that he would not be performing at the event. In response, the organizers demanded a full refund of the MK6 million within 24 hours. Namadingo has agreed to refund only half, citing that the day they booked him for has already been blocked off, preventing him from taking on other engagements.
Pemphero Mphande’s Perspective
In his public statement, Pemphero Mphande expressed disappointment in how the situation had unfolded, emphasizing that both sides need to find common ground for the benefit of the fans and the industry as a whole. While he refused to take sides, Mphande urged Namadingo to honor his commitment since he had already accepted the booking and payment.
“Doc, you accepted a booking and got paid for it. Whether the payment doesn’t match the type of performance you would give at such an event, please honor your commitment,” Mphande advised his friend.
On the other hand, Mphande acknowledged that the organizers were within their rights to refuse the additional payment. However, he encouraged them to sit down with Namadingo and resolve the issue amicably to avoid disappointing fans who are eagerly waiting for the event.
Industry Impact
This incident raises broader questions about the evolving music industry in Malawi, particularly when it comes to artist fees and event planning. Artists like Dr. Namadingo, who have built their brand over years of hard work, understandably seek to be paid what they believe they are worth. However, transparency and clarity in contracts are essential to avoid conflicts like this one.
The music scene in Malawi has been gaining momentum, with increasing expectations for high-quality performances and professional conduct on both sides of the business. Situations like these can serve as learning opportunities for both artists and organizers, emphasizing the need for clear communication and fair negotiations.
A Path Forward
Pemphero Mphande’s post strikes a balanced tone, reminding both Namadingo and the organizers of their responsibilities while calling for a peaceful resolution. Fans are looking forward to the concert, and both parties owe it to them to come to an agreement.
As Mphande aptly puts it, “Fans want to see this issue resolved and attend this event.” Finding a solution that honors the initial agreement, while possibly allowing room for compromise on Namadingo’s part, could help the Malawian music industry avoid negative press and move forward positively.
Only time will tell how this saga unfolds, but the hope is that Dr. Namadingo and the Umodzi Music Concert organizers can meet halfway for the sake of their fans and the reputation of the industry.
