My life in music

With over two decades of experience in the music industry, I have gained valuable insights into what works and what doesn't.

I vividly recall the early days of my journey, tirelessly searching for a recording studio in Windhoek, pursuing feature deals that never materialised, and even paying for performance opportunities.

I can still remember recording my first single back in 2005 with Rizzy Rizz and ML. Although it received limited airplay that year and soon faded into obscurity, the same song found new life years after my first commercial album release in 2010.

In this article, I want to emphasise the importance of authenticity and staying true to oneself.

Artists are often stereotyped as wealthy individuals living glamorous lifestyles, associated with substances and engaged in promiscuity. Sadly, these misconceptions lead many artists down a path of depression and, tragically, some even succumb to suicide.

When my debut album hit the market in 2010 and I received a Channel O nomination, along with other successes, I witnessed first-hand the rapid expansion of my fan base and the love people had for my music.

However, along with this new-found fame came a multitude of influences and suggestions: Change the people I associate with, alter my preferences in drinks, modify my dietary choices, and even redefine my taste in romantic partners.

Can you imagine the weight of that peer pressure? It demanded that I transform into someone unrecognisable. Fortunately, I credit my mother for instilling in me the value of contentment, and I remained steadfast in my true identity.

Maintaining appearances

If you conform to a flashy image that doesn't align with your real life, you're likely to encounter problems. If you can't garner more likes on social media because you don't own a particular brand of clothing, so be it!

We shouldn't feel compelled to borrow from others to mimic their lifestyle. Such behaviour can lead to a cycle of borrowing to maintain appearances, which may bring about significant troubles if financial means cannot support it. Musicians are often presumed to borrow top-of-the-range vehicles for music videos, creating an illusion of prosperity. These assumptions can hinder opportunities, as people may believe you already have enough when, in reality, you don't.

I have learnt valuable lessons from the people who have crossed my path through music. Most of them wished me well, and for that, I am grateful to God.

Some individuals betrayed me, sharing negative comments with my manager, claiming I was squandering resources. We now look back and laugh about those incidents.

There are days when I feel like giving up, but my manager and my closest friends always remind me: "If nobody is talking about you, then you're not making an impact. They talk about you because they feel your presence. Oyuuvite ombepo".

From day one, Antonio believed in me, unwavering in his conviction and vision for what an artist could achieve. His energy, along with the support of those around me, propelled me forward, and I never looked back.

I am forever indebted to the established artists in the industry, numerous radio DJs and television personalities who placed their trust in the brand and worked tirelessly to help me realise my dreams. I owe them a great deal.

As I reflect on my life in music, I am humbled by the valuable lessons learnt and the experiences that have shaped me. The challenges I faced, the sacrifices made and the unwavering dedication to my craft have moulded me into the artist I am today.

I am grateful for the opportunities that came my way and for the individuals who believed in me when doubt crept in.

Stay true

To all those embarking on their own paths, I urge you to stay true to who you are. Embrace your uniqueness and authenticity. Resist the pressure to conform or change for the sake of external validation. Success should not be measured solely by societal standards, but by the impact you make and the fulfilment you derive from pursuing your passion.

Remember, the journey may not always be smooth. There will be setbacks, criticisms and moments of doubt. But it is during these times that we must find strength and resilience. Surround yourself with a support system that uplifts and encourages you, keeping your vision alive even in the face of adversity.

As I continue to navigate the ever-evolving music industry, I remain grounded in my purpose. I strive to create music that resonates with people, that tells stories and that spreads positivity and inspiration. I am committed to using my platform to uplift others, to be a voice for the voiceless and to bring about meaningful change.

In conclusion, let us cherish our individual journeys while recognising the interconnectedness of our paths. Together, we can create a vibrant and thriving music community that celebrates diversity, authenticity and the power of artistic expression. Let us forge ahead, united in our pursuit of excellence, and make a lasting impact through our love for music.

My life in music is a testament to the transformative power of staying true to oneself, embracing one's uniqueness and cultivating a supportive network. May my journey inspire others to follow their dreams, overcome obstacles and leave an indelible mark on the world through the universal language of music.

**Salmon ‘Jesus’ Auala Uulenga is better known as musician Fishman.