Dalisoul, born Madaliso Phiri, grew up in Mtendere compound, alongside his 9 siblings, just a stone’s throw away from Africa Directions (AD). Dalisoul was interested in music from a young age, first performing in his church choir. However, it was the staff at AD who first discovered and tapped his talent as a musician. AD held regular talent search competitions where local youth came to perform and Dalisoul was among these aspiring artists. He credits his performance skills to AD. Not only did they expose him to crowds at a tender age, building his confidence, but they also taught him how to capture and captivate an audience by developing a strong stage presence incorporating elements of dance and theatre.
Dalisoul made his debut as a single artist in 2001 with the song “Kuninena” and has since worked with many top Zambian musicians such as JK, Petersen, Danny, and Mampi. He made the first ever video-cd in Zambia and his first album, entitled “Shansha,” is still jumping off the shelves. Dalisoul says his music is about reality – it talks about the hardships of living in townships and the trials people face in life. He hopes to strengthen people by encouraging them to utilize whatever resources they have and make the best of every situation. He considers himself to be an advocate of the people, speaking on their behalf with music. He hopes to bring about change by highlighting social issues affecting youth in Zambia.
Dalisoul was a regular pool player at AD. It was from his interactions with peer educators here that he learned about the realities of HIV/AIDS. Now that he is popular artist, he is using his talent and position to raise awareness and promote healthy behaviors. In December ’09, he released a hit single featuring Petersen, entitled “Condoms” which has been dominating the airwaves and clubs. He says he wrote this song to break the taboo about condoms; he wants to encourage people to be safe and protect themselves. While behavior change is difficult, he hopes that some will take the message to heart.
Dalisoul strives to empower the youth with his messages just as AD empowered him. He advises young people to put their education first so that they can take advantage of all opportunities in life. He believes education makes people more aware of and receptive to positive change. Dalisoul recommends that youth delay sex so that they can remain healthy and achieve their goals. For those who choose not to abstain, however, he urges them to use condoms correctly and consistently because HIV/AIDS is a reality.
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