Jah Prayzah defends ‘gruesome’ video

By Sophia Chese

HARARE – Contemporary musician Jah Prayzah who released a video for his song “No to Xenophobia” last week has defended its highly graphic contents saying people ought to know what really transpired in South Africa.

The video has been received with mixed feelings with others saying it was too gory for public consumption. The “Tsviriyo” hit-maker said he felt there was a need for people to see and understand the tragedy and evil of the xenophobic attacks that took place.

“I found out that when people received the news of the xenophobic attacks, most of them did not have a clear picture of what exactly took place and I took it upon myself to show them through the video with the aim to make them understand the brutality that our relatives went through at the hands of South Africans,” he said.

He said he personally was hurt when he watched the videos resulting in him penning a song in deep pain. “Maybe I wrote the song when I was too emotional because truly speaking I was disturbed when I watched those video clips,” he said.

But the message seems to have backfired as some viewers are questioning the authenticity of his footage and its suitability for general consumption.

“To me it is not for public viewing, that’s why they always put a disclaimer. We must be mindful of the impact it can cause to kids,” observed a phone-in commentator who declined to name himself.

“Where did he get those images? Surely he could have passed his message without the horror show,” said Danai Muza of Greendale.

But there are others who support the musician saying that art is a reflection of life.

“There is nothing bad about the video, he is only trying to convey a message and what is on the video is what is happening in real life, They are artists mind you, remember there is a thing called freedom of expression and also people have those clips on their mobile phones so there is nothing sinister about the video, well done Jah Prayzah for informing us of what is happening through music,” said Tendai Munyoro from Glen Norah.

The attacks against fellow Africans in some parts of South Africa have been vicious with over 400 Zimbabweans having left Durban for home over the weekend to flee the violence. The Herald