THE AFRO TRAP PIONEER TAKING MALAWI TO THE WORLD

From the vibrant streets of Blantyre, Malawi, to making waves across Africa, Mr Jagz has carved out a name for himself as a force to be reckoned with in the urban music scene. His journey from recording his first track in 2007 to headlining international festivals speaks volumes about his dedication, passion, and business acumen.

Beyond music, Mr Jagz, born Lovemore Nyika, is an entrepreneur and avid reader of business and motivational books, constantly seeking ways to empower himself and those around him.

Let’s get to know the man behind the name Mr Jagz—his music, his journey, and his vision for Malawi’s urban industry.

Profile By Kedson Ngwira

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PERSONAL DETAILS

• Birth Name: Lovemore Nyika
• Date of Birth: 28 May, born at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Blantyre, Malawi
• Meaning of the name “Mr Jagz”: A combination of creativity, genius, and eye-catching appeal, combined with “Mr” to symbolize responsibility and control over my craft.
• Relationship Status: (Undisclosed)
• Favorite Meal: Local chicken (road runner) with Nkhwani and Nsima—a true Malawian meal.
• Favorite Color: Blue, definitely.
• Life Outside Music: I am self-employed and spend most of my time reading business and motivational books, sharing knowledge and ideas with those close to me.

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THE MUSICAL JOURNEY

• Genre: Afro Trap
• Record Labels:
  • Boss Boy Music (Independent Label)
  • P Grand Muzik Circle (Based in South Africa, handling distributions)

How did your passion for music begin?

“My career kick-started in 2007 when I recorded my first track with Chatlock AKA Dynamike, who was then a producer for Nyasa Guruz. My first-ever studio session was thanks to Blackjak, who presented me with the opportunity for a PSI Malawi project-themed song. In 2008, I recorded my hit single “Gwedeza” under Loc Nation Records (owned by Sean Loc). The song gained massive recognition when it was featured on The Drill, a radio program on FM 101 Power, hosted by Lomwe. It even made the Top 3 Hip-Hop Songs of the Year!”

• In 2009, Boss Boy Music was formed, a label I co-founded with DJ Boo (now based in South Africa).
• I’ve worked with artists like Tygris, Rina, Hypa, Renegade, and Pilgrim, among others.
• Over the years, my music has gained recognition in countries like South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique.

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WHO’S WHO ON YOUR MUSICAL LIST?

• First Professional Song: Gwedeza ft. Kenzo-B
• First Producer: Dynamic
• First Collaboration: Gwedeza ft. Kenzo-B
• Who is ruling Malawi’s rap industry? Still up for debate.
• Favorite Local/International Urban Artist: Sarkodie (Ghana)
• Best Producer You’ve Ever Worked With:
  “This is a tough one, but I’d say Jimix Beatz (based in South Africa) because he gave me my first global hit, “Pasavute”.”
• Best Friend in Music:
  “In South Africa, I have a squad of brothers who are also artists—it’s all about family and positive energy. In Malawi, I’d say Fredokiss. We always share aspirations and ideas. He’s a great guy and a motivator.”
• Dream Collaboration:
  “I’m a hustler—I don’t limit my options. I work with ambitious artists who have clear goals. Just be a mover and willing to grind for the music.”

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YOUR TAKE ON THE 265 RAP PODIUM

Which Malawian urban artist dominated the first quarter of 2018?

“It’s complicated. The problem is that most artists don’t finalize their products. I’ve heard some great songs, but they lack a solid foundation beyond premiering on “Made on Monday” and getting downloads on Malawi Music web.”

Is Malawi’s urban music industry where it should be?

“Not yet. Malawi’s music scene is still in transition. Artists need to stop making music just for Malawians and instead focus on appealing to the entire African continent. Until artists adopt this mindset, we won’t be able to compete internationally or get invited to perform on major platforms and concerts across Africa.”

Why are many Malawian urban artists relocating to South Africa?

“People go where opportunities exist, but not everyone has the same grace. If you can make it in Malawi, you can make it anywhere. Instead of just flocking to RSA, we should focus on investing in our entertainment industry so that artists don’t feel the need to leave.”

What’s the difference between how music is managed in RSA and Malawi?

*”It’s worlds apart. In South Africa, music is a major business.

• Release dates are well-planned (both for songs and visuals).
• Artists earn a fortune because music promoters play a key role in setting up gigs, sponsorships, and branding opportunities.
• In Malawi, things move slower, but investors exist—artists just need to stand up for their brands and actively seek deals instead of waiting for opportunities.”*

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CHALLENGES IN THE MALAWI MUSIC INDUSTRY & SOLUTIONS

What challenges do Malawian urban artists face?

• Lack of proper investment in the entertainment industry.
• Limited access to international platforms.
• Music not being treated as a full-time business by many artists.

What needs to be done to promote urban music in Malawi?

• Artists must think beyond Malawi and aim for continental recognition.
• Corporate sponsorships and endorsements should be encouraged.
• Better event management and music promotion strategies need to be implemented.

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MEMORABLE MOMENTS

Most Embarrassing Moment?

“I haven’t had many, but I’ve experienced being taken off stage early or not performing at all because no one knew my music. Instead of feeling down, I used these moments as motivation to grind harder.”

Most Memorable Moment?

“Performing at the 1st Annual Trace Roots Music Festival in South Africa. I received the invitation while I was in Malawi with family. I had to be flown back to RSA to perform alongside some of Africa’s biggest artists. The best part? Sharing the stage with the same people I started with.”

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TRIVIA: WHO IS MR JAGZ?

“I take life as it comes. I make calm and calculated decisions. I love learning new things, traveling, and exploring different cultures. I surround myself with positive-minded people because success isn’t about money—it’s about how you think and what you believe in.”

If you were to wed today, who would be your best man?

“Most of my guys would fight for the spot! They keep asking when I’ll finally settle down.”

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SOCIAL MEDIA HANDLES

• Instagram: @MrJagz265
• Facebook: BossBoy Music
• Twitter: @Bossboi265