NEWS | ARTIST OF WEEK | MUSIC

Personal Information

• Birth Name: Salven Richie Nthala
• Date of Birth: May 16, 1992
• Origin of the Name ‘Salvy’: A shortened form of my real name, Salven.
• Highest Academic Qualification: ICAM Diploma
• Favorite Food: Nsima with roasted pork
• Record Label: MadHouse Entertainment
• Favorite Colors: Black & White
• Relationship Status: Taken
• Life Outside Music: I am a businessman and also work as a Finance Analyst for DStv/GOtv.

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Music Background

What inspired you to join the music industry?
I’ve had a deep love for music since childhood. I grew up listening to hip-hop and was always surrounded by friends who were into music, including Revolver, Hypa, Jay Weezy, Recka Jay, Killa Ace, and Stich Fray.

Who is your best friend in the music industry?
Renegade, who is also the co-founder of MadHouse Entertainment.

Your first professional song?
“I Made It,” produced by Blage and Stich Fray.

Your first professional producer?
Stich Fray.

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Your Take on Malawi’s Urban Music Scene

Who is the best producer you’ve ever worked with?
Renegade. He understands my style and knows exactly how to craft beats that complement my voice. He also has a great ear for mixing vocals to perfection.

Favorite Local Urban Artist?
Gingerbread.

Favorite International Urban Artist?
Jay-Z.

Who do you think is the next big thing in Malawi’s urban music scene?
Waxy K.

Your most embarrassing moment as an artist?
Going to the studio full of excitement, only to find that there was a blackout all day.

Your most memorable moment in music?
The release of my song “I Made It” and the overwhelming positive response from fans.

What do you think needs to be done to promote urban music in Malawi?
Artists need to collaborate more and support each other rather than competing negatively.

Which artist is currently dominating the local urban music scene?
Waxy K.

Who do you consider the ultimate rap king in Malawi?
Hyphen.

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The Song ‘Waishosha’

What is the song about?
“Waishosha” addresses people who always have something to say about others’ success but don’t focus on their own progress. It also speaks about artists who gain popularity from cover songs but fail to create original hit records.

Some people claim it’s a diss track. What’s your response to that?
It’s not a diss track. It simply reflects the reality of the industry. Many artists blow up after doing cover songs but struggle to maintain relevance because they lack originality.

Would you ever record a cover song?
Never. That would be the last thing I’d do in my music career.

Is there any local cover song that has impressed you?
None.

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Personal Insights

What do you dislike the most as a person?
Being around people who try to demotivate me unless it’s constructive criticism.

Do you have any unusual habits?
Yes. I always believe I’m doing great, even when I’m not.

Your dream holiday destination?
Dubai – specifically, the Burj Khalifa. I want to see the tallest building in the world.

Your dream car?
Range Rover.

Your favorite quotes?

• “Rome was not built in a day.”
• “Greatness comes to those who act.”

Any hidden talents besides rapping?
Yes, I’m also a poet.

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Message to Malawian Music Fans

2024 is the year I plan to change the game with my best music yet. The EP I will drop next year will be fire! Stay tuned!