“All things work together for
good for those that love God and are called according to His purpose”, so the
bible reads and is evidenced in Aubrey Wenya Banda’s life. Born 7 September
1988, he was raised by a strong single mother who passed away when he was only
9 years old. Adopted by his aunt and uncle (a minister of the gospel), God had provided
for Aubrey a family that gave him the foundation he himself needed to become a
minister of the gospel. Although he will tell you that growing up in church was
“exciting”, he will add that he and his cousin Emmanuel didn't know much about
God but they were never too far from the church or helping in their dad’s
ministry in Kawale. If you ask Aubrey to describe himself he will tell you: “Am
in the business of reaching out to lost souls, healing broken hearts and
encouraging people in the faith.” I first took note of Aubrey on the social
networking sites being promoted as a newly signed artist to 1 Lord. Immediately
after this was the release of his first single “Ndi chikondi” and only recently
was the second release “Nkhosa yosochela” (please find these tracks [and a bio] at http://www.reverbnation.com/aubreymusic265
before you continue reading if you have never listened to his music before). I
particularly love the fact that 1 Lord continue to transform themselves and are
able to branch out into different genres, in my opinion they are one of three labels that I recognize that are
pioneering the “record label” scene in Malawi – they should continue conducting
themselves in a manner that would enrich the music scene: signing, promoting
and managing artists; directing their projects; developing production processes;
organizing country-wide tours, events and shows; paying salaries etc. Aubrey’s
voice is dynamic and his music is mature but his style is very reminiscent to
Boyz II Men, in fact you will be able to pick it up in Aubrey’s music if you
were ever a fan of that group. I believe that as he continues to add to
his discography he will find a style that is original to him – I expect that
his project will be a reflection on his vocal and songwriting abilities and
less about his original style. However, the fact that he seems to be
very influenced by Boyz II Men doesn’t bother me much on two points: 1) the
target audience that his music is directed towards probably won’t care anyway, and
2) I guess this is where singing and rap are similar: I have seen many new
rappers emerge with a style very similar to other rappers they used to listen
to, but eventually shed that identity and forge their own – I believe that
Aubrey will reach that place. As you
read this Artist Review, pay close attention to the part that Christian community
plays in nurturing talent and God’s call;
how people are able to come together into one person’s life and pour financially,
spiritually, and motivationally into him.
What Was Your First Experience With Music?
Growing up, my big brother loved
to listen to international RnB ,soul, and contemporary Gospel music and I would
sit and listen with him. I loved to listen to Boyz II Men, Joe, Stevie Wonder
and Smoke Norful…that's how I became a music addict hahahaha if that is the
right way to put it. But, the older I grew, the more the Christ-centered type
of music began to sink in me.
Who Do You Look Up to Musically?
When Rudo Chakwera came back from
the USA, I was invited by her husband, Pr. Nick Chakwera to learn more about
the music craft. Pr. Nick is someone who
saw greatness in me; both he and his wife are musical geniuses. We became great
friends through time, and I am always excited and honored to learn from her. I
remember and cherish the times I have spent with them; it has helped me to grow
musically and spiritually. Whilst at Kawale – because now I worship at
International Christian Assembly - I met someone who became my bestfriend, Yankho
Mbidzi, and we spent much time with Gold Nyali who also introduced us to Thatcher
– both of whom are also musical geniuses. These two people have taught me a lot
of things about music. Gold Nyali and Thatcher introduced us to music like
Jazz, Afro Jazz, pop, and piano lessons…I will always respect them. They shared
their heart of music with me.
What or Who Inspired You To Start Your Project?
My producer, Sam Mjura Mkandawire,
a true brother and friend and Pr. Nick influenced me on this project the most. I
remember it like yesterday, Pr. Nick told me in front of a lot of young people
at the national youth camp meeting that: “…it is high time you work on your
solo gospel albums”, and I was convinced that it was the right time to get to
work. God started opening up doors and we managed to raise some money. I and Sam
Mjura Mkandawire got to work immediately; Sam played every major role
financially, and he gave out his best and for that I am so thankful to him.
Sam, who is also my manager, introduced my music to DJ Kali and he was
impressed so he wanted to meet me and that's how I was introduced to one 1 Lord.
DJ Kali is a wonderful man with a great vision and I have confidence that as we
work together we will achieve more for the Kingdom of God. I was signed as a
1Lord artist and the rest is history. I expect the album will be out in January
2013. The title of the album is “Ndi Chisomo”.
Last Words…
I have been called to do many
things but I have been created for one thing and that is to worship Him, and
that is what I live and die for. He deserves the glory, not me. Every musician
or artist must understand that when God calls you it is for his glory and we
shouldn't grow wings but as He exalts us then we should be humble ourselves
more.
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