The upcoming Matias Damásio concert in the city of Tete, scheduled for December 2nd, has brought to the forefront a heated discussion about the inequality in artist fees, particularly highlighted in the case of local artist Jack Nhúsec.
Jack Nhúsec, a representative of the rich artistic scene of Tete province, had his fee advertised as 15,000 meticais. However, the reality revealed yesterday shows that the artist will receive 13,000 meticais, contradicting the promotional information. Even more surprising is the fact that, to date, Jack Nhúsec has not even received 50% of the promised amount, while the international artist Matias Damásio has already received his impressive 2,520,000.00 meticais in full.
This scenario raises pertinent questions about the appreciation of Mozambican music and the treatment afforded to local artists by national promoters. The devaluation, evidenced by the disparity in fees, calls into question equity and fairness within the country's music industry.
The Jack Nhúsec case highlights the financial vulnerability and lack of transparency that some local artists face when dealing with promoters. The failure to pay at least part of the fee in advance further aggravates the situation, raising serious questions about fairness in contract negotiations.
Given this glaring disparity, the question arises: what position can be adopted in such a situation? Would it be justifiable for Jack Nhúsec to refrain from performing at the show, considering the substantial discrepancy in fees and the fact that he has not yet received any advance payment, while Matias Damásio has already received full payment?
The answer to this question is complex and multifaceted. The decision to participate in the event or not depends on several factors, including the impact such an act would have on Jack Nhúsec's career, his relationships with the promoters, and his standing with the local public.
However, regardless of Jack Nhúsec's individual decision, this episode highlights the urgent need for deeper reflection on the appreciation of local artists and business ethics within the Mozambican music industry. Transparency, fairness, and respect for artists emerge as essential elements to ensure a fairer and more sustainable environment for all those involved in the creation and promotion of music in the country.
