They have been flying the Namibian flag high in all that is a musical avenue on the continent. The Gal Level butterflies were the first Namibian artists to be recognised beyond local borders by being nominated for a Channel O Video Music Award and recently achieved another first, a MAMA nomination. Flamingo takes to the skies with the sexy, sassy Ogopa butterflies on their journey to atmospheric success.
Frieda Haindaka and Daphne Willibard, collectively known as Gal Level, have made great strides in the entertainment industry since their debut hit single, ‘Shake It’, first topped local charts. The duo has released two successful albums to date and the Gals are preparing to release their third offering in the December festive season. I met them at their label headquarters in Windhoek to discuss just that and a little more.
Upon arrival, I find one half of the duo, Daphne, responding to fan mail on Facebook and dozens of comments on the duo’s recent attendance at the MAMAs (MTV Africa Music Awards). Just stepping into the office, I realise why Gal Level is so successful. The artists are signed under a business-minded label managed by Sula Kyababa of Ogopa Djs/Butterfly Entertainment. They take what they do seriously and go to work as if it were any workday, handling fans and interviews in a professional manner. Everything – from recording studios to video – is housed on the premises.
We settle ourselves down for an in-depth discussion on events past and present when the other half (Frieda) arrives. "We are excited about having been nominated at MTV and expect other things to follow," says an extroverted Daphne when I ask the duo about the MAMAs, which were held at a celestial affair in Kenya in early October. "It shows how much we have grown and that we have made inroads in the entertainment industry in Africa," agrees an equally elated Frieda. In addition to the MAMAs, the duo also garnered two awards at the Channel O Video Music Awards, a first for Namibia.
The Gals are now at a great place in their career. They have travelled extensively, doing many shows. “We have performed in several countries, including Kenya and South Africa, and have been blessed to stage for audiences that dance to our music even if they don’t know the words or can’t understand the language. Really, that’s what music is about. It has no racial, tribal or class bounds – anyone can relate to it. We are so proud to breach bridges and unite this generation of YBG (Young, Black and Gifted) Africans,” beams Frieda.
They also cite gratitude and humility for being re-cognised as artists who have contributed to shaping the entertainment industry in Namibia. “We are ho-noured to have been part of the process of building the Namibian music industry, and Namibians should pat themselves on the back. We wouldn’t be here without their support. It really means a lot just to be nominated. It says that we are doing something right. Having brought Namibia this far musically is just amazing. It’s inspiring to do more and exhaust yourself. I hope we can continue doing this until we’re old and grey,” laughs Daphne.
The Gals are bracing themselves for their third album launch, which is already much anticipated by fans. “We plan to release later in the year, as it would actually suit us better, due to the Namibian love of a good get-together at the end of the year. The launch is slated for 24 December and will actually be our way of saying thank you to our local fans. It’s a Christmas gift for all of those who stood behind us during the year and were instrumental in getting us where we are today. They can look forward to something spectacular, as we are going all out to make it extra special.”
The Gal Level duo is proving that beauty, brains and sex appeal are a powerful combination if merged with hard work and sheer talent, and that women should reach out for and ultimately achieve their goals. They have no intention of slowing down or resting on their laurels and are steadily soaring towards greater success. They have braved the road over the rainbow and are painting the skies in co-lours that reflect the splendour of butterflies.
