E-Wallet earmarks E’face for finale

Negotiations are underway for E-Wallet soaring songbird Aemo E’face to headline Malawi’s talent show’s final in December, both organisers and the artist have confirmed.

Despite exiting the 2008 E-Wallet prematurely, South Africa-based E’face (real name Amos Mazinyane) has risen to join a rare breed of Malawian musicians with their offerings on Channel O and MTV.

In an interview, the Midnight Train to Jozi hitmaker said he is yet to make up his mind whether to grace the showcase which represents his humble beginnings.

“It’s true I have been approached to headline the finale, but I will come back [to you] when the discussions are over,” said the Malawian-born rapper, singer and songwriter.

In a separate interview, E-Wallet president Felix Njawala said they settled for E’face because he is the poster face of the creativity the show envisages to nurture.

“Being a product of the E-Wallet and still active in music, Aemo is the right talent to headline the finals slated for December 31,” said Njawala.

He said 2009 winner Penjani Mdumuka will miss out on the playlist because she quit music as the rest of the winners are living overseas. However, he hinted that they have set aside a motivational week for E-Wallet graduates to interact with the contestants of the ongoing edition.

The event, broadcast on MBC TV, enters the top 10 berth with the eviction of two contenders at Sunbird Mount Soche in Blantyre on November 24.

The final, to feature E’face, will take place at Sunbird Capital, Lilongwe,

E’face recently signed for Hotel Rwanda actress Rosie Motene’s Waka Records.

In an interview, multi-talented Motene said “Aemo and I will be 50:50 partners on any work produced and distributed” through the deal.

 Explained Motene:  “As an artist, I will source work and clientele for him and take a commission on any deals that are sealed.

With the music aspect, we will produce and establish new talent as well as record and distribute their works. With my travels and work record, I am globally connected to many players within the entertainment industry.”

She reckons Aemo will be an international brand in the next five years.