Rinae Mmbengwa, also known as Alkey, is steadily climbing the music ladder with his unique brand of music.
Alkey, who resides at Tshilamba in the Mutale area, remembers that he first fell in love with music when he was only seven years old. As a child, he attended many music shows and festivals and happily cheered the artists as they ascended the stage to perform.
By listening and comparing music from different genres over the years he discovered his own voice and style as an artist. "With all the love and passion I got from the shows I attended as a fan, I was very proud when I first entered the studio and produced my first single, called Energy, in 2013," he said.
Other songs on his tally stick include Rotakala, Low and Things. "I wrote, recorded and produced more songs, and they were all hits," he said. "Rotakala means that, despite all the challenges, troubles and problems, we are a happy people."
He said that artists should always respect their fans and not take them for granted as they form an integral part of the music industry. "Don't just record and release your songs; you must make sure that they are worth taking out there to the people," he said.
Alkey said that his talent really took root during his high school years. "It was also here that I was encouraged to nurture my rap skills," he said. "I was given a chance to perform at major school events, and the fans loved my music."
He has shared the stage with artists such as Pro Heed, Colbert Mukwevho, Racha Kill, and Makhadzi. "I am working on my first album, called New Flavour, which is due early next year," he said. "This album will focus on challenges that we face every day, especially with the pandemic, women and children abuse, and the lack of love and compassion around us."
He said that the reason why he had managed to make a name for himself in the music industry was because he believed in himself. "I have always wanted to be in the spotlight," he said. "I thank all the artists who had motivated me, and also all my fans for continuing to support me."
Alkey can be followed on Facebook (Arendwaho "Madikita" Ndou) or contacted on Tel 072 315 1784.