Moffat Mungazi
Liberty Dube
Entertainment Correspondent
RAUNCHY dancer, Beverly Sibanda, affectionately known as Bev, and dendera music sensation, Tryson Chimbetu, left an indelible mark on Mutare’s entertainment scene during the just-ended Easter and Independence holidays.
The two captivated their fans with scintillating performances, marking the 45th Independence Anniversary in unforgettable style.
Bev, backed by her ever-energetic ensemble, the Sexy Angels, made a triumphant return to Club Mandisa, gracing the stage for two electrifying nights.
This was Bev’s first performance at the popular venue in several years, and true to form, she delivered an exhilarating show that reminded her loyal fan base exactly why she remains one of Zimbabwe’s most talked-about performers.
Like wine, she is getting better with time and age.
With bold choreography, confident stage presence, and undeniable charisma, she turned the club into a vibrant epicentre of energy and celebration.
Not to be outdone, Tryson Chimbetu brought an entirely different kind of magic to the ghetto in Dangamvura, uniting revellers in a rare and memorable open-air show at Rozvi Bottle Store on Sunday.
It is not every day that a community gathers in such numbers to enjoy a performance of this scale, and Chimbetu rose to the occasion with grace and power, delivering a flawless act that held the audience spellbound for close to seven hours.
Performing a nostalgic selection of dendera classics, including Rudo Ibofu, Mudzimai Wangu, and Dr Nero — originally made famous by his godfathers, the legendary Naison and Simon Chimbetu — Tryson proved why the dendera legacy continues to thrive in the hearts of Zimbabwean music lovers.
His backing band was equally impressive, complementing his vocals with precision and polish, while the sound system projection was perfect.
“It is always a pleasure to celebrate the country’s attainment of independence in style like this. I am so overwhelmed, and this is one of my best gigs ever. I always feel welcomed in Mutare. It is always heartwarming to see Zimbabweans, particularly Mutare fun lovers, celebrating the dendera legacy in peace,” said Chimbetu.
What set both performances apart, beyond the talent on display, was the harmony that underscored them.
Fans celebrated in unity and peace, a testament to the unifying power of music and the joy that these artistes bring to their audiences.
From the sultry rhythms of Club Mandisa to the heartfelt melodies that echoed across Rozvi, the festive spirit of Zimbabwe’s 45th Independence Anniversary resonated powerfully.
In a delightful revelation, Chimbetu hinted at exciting things on the horizon.
He confirmed that he is currently working on a new musical project, with a release anticipated before the end of the year.
For fans of dendera, the news promise more of the soulful storytelling and classic rhythms that define his artistry — infused, no doubt, with a contemporary edge.
He last released the single, Spender Mari, which was finely received by his legion of fans as well as featuring on the track Zambuko done by Tocky Vibes.
“We are working on a new project set for release before the end of year. I am sure our fans are looking forward to new music. We will not disappoint,” he said.
Online Reporter