Online Reporter
Zvikomborero Parafini
AWARD-WINNING musician Alexio Kawara is set to return to the stage with his ‘Shades of Black Experience.’
He is promising fans an evening that goes beyond entertainment.
Kawara’s music has had a therapeutic impact on many music lovers.
“We observed the effect that our music has on people,” Kawara said.
“We have also received testimonies from fans who view our music as therapeutic.
“On this show, we have deliberately gone back to our first passion of the art.”
The show offers a chance to experience familiar songs in a richer, more immersive way.
“This is an opportunity to experience their favourite songs in an enhanced way.
“We are going to share the emotions behind what they have heard on pre-recorded audios or videos.
“This is live music and we are doing our best to present it in the best lively way possible.”
The ‘Shades of Black Experience’ celebrates African identity through music.
“In a nutshell, it represents the diverse African culture, in this case, musically,” he said.
For Kawara, the show also represents a return to his artistic roots.
“This experience is more of a journey back to the basics.
“What brought us together was the music and music must keep us together.”
Fans can expect refreshed renditions of his classic hits, carefully reworked while preserving their signature sound.
“There are some signature sounds in the songs that we are careful not to tamper with, but we add in some flavour because live music should have that extra… something that leaves people saying ‘wow’.”
He stressed that live instrumentation remains central to his sound.
“Live instrumentation can never be replaced. Everyone on stage is expressing themselves uniquely, and some of the things we do are impromptu.
“It also gives us space to interact with fans.”
Known for his intimate and emotionally-charged performances, Kawara credits the music itself for building that connection.
“I think the music does most of the job. I am just the presenter of it.
“The rest is a natural connection.”
The show is set to appeal to both long-time supporters and a new generation of music lovers.
“This is for long-time fans… but we also hope to capture the new generation that has been deprived of such experiences.”
Reflecting on his growth, Kawara said his journey has been one of continuous self-discovery.
“Both musically and emotionally, I have discovered and I am still discovering more of myself.
“When I write from my heart, it always has a greater and lasting impact.”
He added that authenticity has been key to his longevity.
“Ultimately, it’s the grace of God. I have written most of my songs from the deepest part of my heart, and that makes them real and relatable.”
Beyond entertainment, the ‘Shades of Black Experience’ contributes to preserving Zimbabwe’s live music culture by emphasising quality production.
“We work on presentation—good staging and lighting—so that audiences get the best of what art has to give.
“When people experience that, they see the value of live music.”
For Kawara, the most meaningful moments come from the impact his music has on listeners.
“I get people who come back to me thanking me for helping them go through difficult times.
“That is the best experience for me.”
Mathew Masinge