World Music Day is observed annually on June 21 and honours the spirit of music, the vibrancy of vocals, and the melody of instruments.
The day honours music as an art form that unites people regardless of culture, region, language, or religion.
Music is also a cathartic outlet for various emotions such as love, grief, and loss.
Music Day was first observed in France on the Summer Solstice in 1982, when former French minister of art and culture Jack Lange and Maurice Fleuret launched the Fête de la Musique in Paris.
That is also why World Music Day is also known as Fête de la Musique.
Locally, the Namibian music scene is well-seasoned, with talented musicians covering a wide range of genres.
In commemoration of the day, Papa Ndasuunje Shikongeni, Namibia’s most gifted and long-serving visual artist and musician, told Nampa in an interview on Tuesday that policymakers have the power to make today’s generation appreciate music by incorporating it into school curricula.
“Music appreciation should begin at a young age. If these individuals (policymakers and legislators) recognise the importance of teaching music at a young age, the next generation will have a greater appreciation for sound,” he said.
He further stated that the celebration of music should not be limited to one day because it serves as a tool for healing, education, and bringing people from all walks of life together.
Namibia has had its own local hits that have had an impact on thousands over the years, and of late a number of younger artists have stepped on to the scene to make their own mark.
Local radio stations, of course, play a big role in helping Namibian musicians get their music heard.
Nampa, in collaboration with Fresh FM Namibia’s Station Manager Kaycee Butshe, compiled a top 10 list of songs that have been playlisted in the last 12 months and have received a very positive response from Namibian listeners and presenters alike.
Ghetto Ballerina – Again
Royal Ndappy – Hambelela
Ian Lovely/Waters – I know
Gazza – Jam E Son
Chikune – Leo
Elia Davinci – Diamonds
Chikune – Omutima
Ethnix – Open Up
Waters – feat KP Skrypt Wylin
Nally – Number One