Takeaway: Just like Hip-hop, Spoken word poetry is a rhythmic verbalization and embodiment of one’s innermost feelings, struggles and history .This is separate from other types of poetry because Spoken Word poetry is rooted in African American music and culture(Hip-hop); it is also an apparatus for the expression of the black experience.
Now, last week, Maritza, real name Martha Byoga quit Naguru view summit-based, Nxt Radio just a year after she left Namuwongo-based KFM.
Maritza who was co-hosting The D’mighty Breakfast show on 93.3 KFM with Brian Mulondo, quit in March 2022 and joined Nxt Radio in supposedly a multi million deal.
After a year at Nxt Radio, Maritza has moved on but, word had it that she was to join New station, NRG Radio that has signed most of Ugandan celebs; Crystal Panda, Etania, Sheilah Gashumba, Sheila Salta among others but it seems she is rather taking her chances in doing Storytelling and Spoken Word.
“Sadly, I am excited to announce that I will be leaving Next Radio 106.1 to focus on being a Spoken Word Artist. I’m taking this big step towards pursuing my spoken word career.
I have decided to devote more of my time and energy to honing my craft and sharing that with the world. I have always had a passion for words and storytelling so I’m excited to create new pieces, connect with new audiences, and bring some fresh familiar energy to the spoken word scene.
Thank you for being here. Here’s to a new adventure and I can’t wait to see what is in store”. Maritza posted on her socials.
Maritza first worked for X-FM, then Joining KFM as Malaika Nyanzi’s replacement after the latter joined Capital FM. Her combination with Brian Mulondo was thrilling but a multi-million deal pushed her to Nxt Radio.
Many hip hop artist began in the same fashion as spoken word poets in dating social inequalities, being outspokenly resilient and tackling injustices and just much like Hip-Hop artists, spoken word poets are also viewed as cultural/community representatives, advocates and voices of the speechless. Just like Hip-hop agains, Spoken word posses knowledge building and identity-giving capabilities.
