Varsity graduate abandons career for music

WHEN renowned urban groover, Knox Guni, chose to venture full-time into the music industry regardless of his university qualifications most people questioned and ridiculed his decision, however for Prelacy Shiri this was a wise decision hence he followed suit.

Shiri, who graduated with a Media and Society Studies Degree from the Midlands State University, last year, says his love for music has led him to pursue it as a profession rather than going for something related to his degree.

Sunday Leisure (SL) had the opportunity to talk to Shiri (PS), who is in South Africa recording his album, to find out what inspired him to venture into the music industry.

SL: Can you tell us a little about yourself and when you started singing?

PS: I started music at about the age of six. my dad would make me sing at farm, church and family gatherings. I also became a session artiste at around 17 years old and started learning how to play the guitar around the same time.

Later on I formed the group New Dimension in 2004 under which I got my first major breakthrough by sharing the stage with the likes of Pastor G, Kudzi Nyakudya and Pardon Mutsago. Later I got a contract with El Shadaah music, which disbanded and disappeared with my material.

I then left the mainstream industry to do private functions and focus on my academics. A passion for music has led me to pursue it as a career despite my media background and being a born again Christian - it is a conducive platform to spread the good news.

SL: So to date what have you been up to?

PS: I am currently in Cape Town, South Africa, working with the group Epic Minds. They listened to my music and they asked me to sign up for a few songs, which they intend to market through Universal Music. I specialise in neo-soul and contemporary gospel music, therefore, while I am exploring the South African industry I expect to add a Mbhanqanga - Afro-Soul feel to my music and I can tell you that I'm very excited.

I am at an advanced stage of recording an album titled The Ultimate Prototype. I released my first single disc titled Introducing Prelacy and I am receiving airplay especially for the song NdiJesu. I will soon be releasing my second release titled Introducing Prelacy Part Two: The singles collection. People should really expect a scorcher because I am doing everything to offer a near perfect brand.

SL: What has been the major highlights in your musical career?

PS: I had a number of performances at embassies including the American Embassy, however my greatest achievement was performing alongside Oliver Mtukudzi and Chiwoniso, those are by all means seasoned performers.

SL: Who is your inspiration locally and internationally?

PS: Internationally I respect India Arie Israel Houghton, while locally it's Pride Priestly and Tanga wekwaSando.

SL: How come your chose to pursue music rather than your profession?

PS: My first option at college was a degree in music but for some reason they gave me Media. The Media degree has however taught me the key aspect of communication and that has been helpful in composing relevant music. It has also taught me how to manage my career since music is a huge part of the media.

SL: So when can we expect you back in the country?

PS: As soon as I am through with my works here, I am certainly on my way back home and people must expect to see more of me.

SL: Thank you Prelacy, hope to see you when you come back to the country.

PS: Thank you.