Local Swindon DJ, Mbulelo Mtandana, better known as Silver Star, is set to release his first music video, “Bodaboda”, this Friday, 20th September.
Silver, a long-standing figure in Swindon’s nightclub scene for over two decades, has combined his passion for music with an important message of road safety, particularly for motorcyclists in his home country of Tanzania.
The inspiration for the video came during a recent holiday to Tanzania, where Silver witnessed first-hand the devastating effects of road traffic accidents on motorcyclists. The issue is close to his heart, as his own uncle has been paralysed for years following a motorcycle accident. After a chance meeting with one of Tanzania’s biggest urban artists, Jam Bito, Silver decided to create a music video to raise awareness about road safety, an idea that gained swift government backing.
Police Commissioner for road safety, MD Stephen Michael Deleli, was searching for fresh ideas to tackle the issue when Silver approached him. Impressed with the concept, the Commissioner not only supported the initiative but also made an appearance in the video. Dr Kedmon E. Mapana, head of the Tanzanian Arts Council, has also endorsed the project, recognising the potential of the video to save lives.
The song, titled “Bodaboda” (the Swahili term for motorcyclist), was written, recorded, and filmed over a span of four months during Silver’s time in Tanzania. The video features Tanzanian star Jam Bito and professional boxer Abdallah Paziwapazi, adding further celebrity support to the campaign. Even former BBC News presenter, Salim Kikeke, has thrown his weight behind the project, hoping it will raise much-needed awareness about road safety in Tanzania.
Silver Star said: “Being back in my home country of Tanzania after so long, I saw how much more dangerous the roads are compared to here in the UK. I felt a real need to do something that could help the community. If this video can save just one life, then it will all have been worth it.”
The video will be launched in collaboration with a national TV campaign in Tanzania, marking the beginning of Silver’s mission to make a difference through his music. As for what’s next, Silver revealed that he’s already hard at work on his next music video with General Levy, set to release before Christmas, ensuring exciting times ahead for his growing fanbase.
Follow Silver Star on his Facebook page @SilverStar to stay updated on all his upcoming projects.
