Cheta opens up on musical journey

Up-AND-coming gospel artiste, Anderson Talent Cheta has experienced first-hand the challenges that come with growing a brand in the music industry.

Cheta (AC), who is also a drummer and marimba player, speaks to NewsDay (ND) Life & Style reporter Sharon Sibindi on this and other issues.

Below are excerpts of the interview.

ND: How did your interest in music come about?

AC: Well, it started way back when I was still young singing in choirs at church and school. I have been in acapella groups at school and at church. I then took part in the Come Let’s Sing talent search after which I considered taking it seriously and thought of being a soloist. I went on to record something in 2017 and that’s when I released my debut single Fairytale produced by my friend and producer Nqobani “Freak” Mbambo.

ND: How does one categorise your music and how many albums do you have?

AC: At the moment, I don’t have a specific type or genre of music. For now, my music is basically contemporary. I have eight tracks, some already being played on our very own local radio stations SkyzMetro FM and Khulumani FM.

ND: Most artistes have faced challenges such as financial support in their musical journey. Some drop off the microphone in the journey. What has been your experience?

AC: When I was on stage with Kanjiva and Magate hitmaker Enzo Ishall, I felt wow! Also during the Ignite Youth Organisation’s first anniversary where I performed. I felt it was epic! I managed to be part of artistes that performed in a Rocco function where those who attended donated stationery and other things to the less privileged.

ND: You had a music concert in Botswana recently, what was the experience like?

AC: It was a private function that was hosted by Fried Cashiez (an artiste), who tagged me along to go and perform in Botswana. I took it as an opportunity to expand my fan base since I only have a few people following my music who were actually present in that crowd.

ND: Did the people understand your music, considering the language issue?

AC: As for the language, it was not a big deal. The songs I performed were a mix and had some English lines so it was not hard at all for them to enjoy. I even did a Ndebele hip-hop song which they appreciated so much because it is more of a banger, so before I performed I had to break it down to them.

ND: How did you feel after the performance and what few things did you grasp during the tour?

AC: I appreciated how I was treated, the love, the support, despite being a foreign artiste. I then got to arrange a few future projects and shows in Botswana.

ND: Besides music, what other projects are you into?

AC: I am a drummer. I play drums at church and I can teach marimba. Basically my life revolves around the music world.

ND: Your parting shot?

AC: If God gave you a talent, use it wisely. Never sit on it because one day before you realise, it would have been long gone and you would have lost track of time. I would like to encourage other artistes and producers that working together is the key. For me l feel growing together as Bulawayo artistes would be a great thing that will be unstoppable.