Don Tarz Urges Dancehall Community to Embrace Monetization

 

Don Tarz

Dancehall musician Don Tarz has called for a shift in how Malawian dancehall artists and event organizers approach monetization, arguing that the genre is failing to capitalize on its potential.

Drawing a comparison to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) a country rich in resources but often benefiting outsiders Tarz described the local dancehall scene as a “flame that attracts but doesn’t provide warmth.” While dancehall artists have the ability to excite crowds, he lamented that they struggle to turn their talent into financial success.

In a Facebook post, Tarz pointed to the memorial show for late hip-hop artist Martse, where attendees paid an entry fee, as an example of smart revenue generation. He questioned why the same strategy is not applied in the dancehall community, noting that memorial events for artists like Mafunyeta and Evison Matafale continue to be free of charge—an approach he believes represents lost financial opportunities.

Tarz further highlighted the annual memorial concert for Joe Malenga in Mtandile, which also remains free. He suggested that introducing a small entry fee, such as K500, could help support the families of late artists and cover event logistics.

Encouraging a shift in mindset, Tarz stressed the need for dancehall artists and organizers to embrace monetization strategies, ensuring that the industry grows and becomes financially sustainable.