Reflections from Lake of Stars 2025: This year’s Lake of Stars Festival was more than just another event on the calendar — it was an experience that left me both inspired and humbled. From 17 to 19 October 2025, the festival returned to the serene shores of Fish Eagle Bay Lodge in Nkhotakota, and I was fortunate to be a part of it through Music Exchange, where we hosted a Music Business workshop to share insights on best practices for artists looking to amplify their careers.
I was joined by Vusi Leeuw for the discussions, and together we unpacked the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry before a passionate and curious audience. It was rewarding to see artists from across Malawi and beyond eager to learn, connect, and grow.
Beyond the workshop, it was a joy to reconnect with familiar faces like Ano Shumba and Richard Rheeder, and to make new friends along the way. The sense of community was strong — a reminder that music truly has no borders.
Our journey to Nkhotakota was an adventure in itself. What should have been a simple five-hour trip from Lilongwe Airport on Friday turned into a test of endurance, thanks to Malawi’s challenging road conditions. But as soon as we arrived and saw Lake Malawi shimmering under the afternoon sun, every bump along the way was forgotten.
The festival pulsed with life and diversity — performances by artists from Zimbabwe, South Africa, the Czech Republic, and of course, Malawi itself created a truly Pan-African and international celebration. The opening night was particularly memorable: Zimbabwe’s Djembe Monks lit up the stage with their hypnotic rhythms, setting the tone for what was to come. Traditional acts like Tamba Africa and local favourites such as Madalitso Band, Driemo, and DB Step kept spirits soaring late into the night.
Saturday brought even larger crowds and a deeper sense of connection. The Mangelengele Stage and Kweza Space offered completely different experiences — from energetic live bands and Afro beats to an unexpected treat: a beautifully refined performance by Czech opera singer Zdenka Kotova accompanied by Richard Rheeder on piano. It was a moment of calm sophistication amid the high-energy festival atmosphere, and one I won’t soon forget.
As the festival drew to a close on Sunday, I took time to wander between stages, catching glimpses of acts like Agorosso, Flaming Maize, Raven Duchess, and The Daughters Band. Each performance carried its own unique energy, but all shared a common thread — a deep love for Malawi and its creative spirit.
Lake of Stars wasn’t just about the music. Workshops and panel discussions, including ours on Music Business, added depth and dialogue to the experience. There were also sessions on Roots & Rhythm and Green Beats & Festival Economy, alongside creative showcases like instrument-building workshops, film screenings, spoken word performances, and even a whimsical Soap Bubble Show by German artist Elias.
When the festival wrapped up, we faced another long journey — three hours back to Lilongwe on Sunday night to catch our 8 a.m. flight on Monday to Johannesburg. Thanks to Malawi Airlines for getting us home safely and on time.
Yes, the distances were vast and the roads tough. It made me think that perhaps the festival could one day consider relocating to a more accessible area, such as Salima, known for Senga Bay and the Kuti Wildlife Reserve. With its natural beauty and proximity to Lilongwe, it could be a fitting next chapter for Lake of Stars.
Still, the challenges did little to overshadow the magic. The festival’s organisation, its people, and the breathtaking setting of Lake Malawi reminded me why this country is known as “the warm heart of Africa.”
Leaving Nkhotakota, I carried with me more than just memories — I carried renewed appreciation for the power of music, community, and the shared human experience that transcends geography. Lake of Stars 2025 wasn’t just an event; it was a reminder that art continues to unite, uplift, and inspire — even at the end of a long, bumpy road.
Special thanks to Zahir Ellis for inviting us -Roll on 2026
Video: Martin Myers Personal Reflections from Lake of Stars 2025 in Malawi
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