adminBlessed Katiyo in JOHANNESBURG
THE much-hyped Alick Macheso SA Autumn Shutdown lived up to its billing.
Thousands of Orchestra Mberikwazvo fans filled up the two venues in Johannesburg where the music maestro delivered yet another dose of masterclass.
The gigs were bankrolled by Chicco Farooq Entertainment and Boss Ya Mboka Clothing, fronted by former Zimbabwe international Willard Katsande.
Boss Chicco, aka Wellington Chikoore, is based in Harare.
Boss Farooq and Katsande are in Johannesburg.
As expected, from the seasoned promoters, CF Entertainment did not disappoint as their logistics were on point.
The show also announced Katsande’s entry into the entertainment industry with his mentors
The two shows held at the weekend drew huge attendances to the extent that on Friday night alcohol ran out just after midnight in Kempton Park.
This left some fans angry but were soothed by Macheso’s energy until the break of dawn.
Baba Sharo, as he is affectionately known, had to be ushered off stage against his will as the clock had passed 4am.
The same happened again early yesterday morning at the Newtown Music Factory where some fans actually dozed off as the Mberikwazvo musical juggernaut continued on its track.
The two shows came at a time when thousands of Zimbabweans were entertainment-starved as no major shows had been held in South Africa since the beginning of the year.
And, the promoters delivered a weekend that will be etched in the minds of many for a long time to come.
A long line up of supporting artists were invited and did not disappoint.
It was the first time for many to see baby-faced Tedious Muchapedza Matsito Junior on stage with his Ngwenya Brothers.
The young talent has ensured the Matsito dynasty is not going to die.
He took his late dad’s fans down memory lane with songs such as Nyaradzo, Gede and many others.
It was refreshing to see veteran Joburg-based sound engineer Ranga Blackhorse Mahachi playing drums for the band at the two shows.
Not to be outdone was Keen Marshall Nhemachema and his Black and White Band.
They proved why they are a much-sought after group after they wowed fans with their own tracks as well as covers from major artists such as the late Oliver Mtukudzi, Jah Prayzah and Simon Chimbetu.
At Bassline, talented Darlington Mhofela Tanganyika announced his musical comeback with his Journey Band.
Tanganyika had been sidelined since December after a freak accident that saw him break his left leg.
He defied the pain and hobbled on stage and delivered a fine performance.
Those into dancehall were not left behind with a fine performance from Loud H.
Top wheel spinner Kuda Mr Gee Kumsedyo did his tricks on the decks much to the pleasure of many. Mbare Boys represented by Fadiga and Warrior were also there, as was MC T Boss.
Fans were kept on their feet and hyped up when two great MCees handled the gigs.
Renowned DJ Phathisani Nyathi flew to South Africa for the gigs.
He worked with 2022 Zimdancehall Awards MC of the Year Rico Myers who stays in Jozi.
Sadly, the Jozi fans could not have the opportunity to see dancer Selemani Majuice Mpochi on stage who had to fly back to Harare on Friday morning following the death of his wife.
During the gigs a moment of silence had to be observed in her honour.
“We are grateful for those that have supported Majuice and us as a band.
“We want to thank Boss Welly Manyonda vachemawo nesu and bought the air ticket to ensure Majuice manages to go home for the funeral,” said Macheso before breaking down on stage.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter