The artist and the state in Tanzania : a study of two singers: Kalikali and Mwinamila

This study investigates the relationship of the artist and the state in Tanzania, using Kalikali and Mwinamila a case studies. The purpose is to illuminate this relationship, identify the factors influencing the state’s reaction to the artist and examine the effect of this reaction on the artist’s work. Kalikali and Mwinamila are singers to whom the Tanzanian state has reacted differently. In 1965 Kalikali was detained for singing “subversive” songs. Mwinamila, who sings similar songs, has never been harassed. One wonders why. My assumptions are that Kalikali and Mwinamila are very critical of the state and that, given their different backgrounds, their conception and representation of the state may differ. Could the state’s reaction towards them be explained in terms of these differences? I have used a few songs sung by these singers. The selection has been based on the availability and popularity of the songs. For every song presented, I have made a thematic analysis. I have concluded that the relationship between the artist and the state in Tanzania is complex. Before his detention, for example, Kalikali severely criticized the state and his relationship with it was strained. After his detention, he abandoned his critical attitude, becoming an ally of the state. Mwinamila, in the early 1960s, was a strong supporter of the post-colonial state and his relationship with it was harmonious. However, since 1967 he has increasingly become critical, and his relationship with the state is less harmonious than before. Furthermore, Ihave concluded that the state’s reaction to the artist is not determined by the form and content of the artist’s work alone; other factors-time, place, audience and personal relationships-are involved. The effect of the state’s reaction on the artist and his work depends on the character of the artist himself. Coercion by the state, for example, turned Kalikali to a praise-singer, while Mwinamila has increasingly become a relentless critic of the party and government in spite of the honours and privileges given him.