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Jazz maestro Louis Mhlanga, who jetted into Harare on Sunday afternoon, serenaded fans later in the evening on a landmark night for jazz.
The South Africa-based crooner, producer and songwriter’s visit was very special to the jazz community.
It coincided with the final day of the inaugural “Jazz & Soul in Zim Musical Festival” at Sherwood Golf Club, Mabelreign.
A brainchild of joint proprietor, Briggs Bomba, the inaugural event went according to plan.
l LOUIS’ MAGIC
True to his status, Mhlanga proved that the jazz community is still vibrant.
Backed by some local session musicians, including star bass guitarist Josh Meck, he simply made his job easier with sing-along tracks.
Meck replaced the late Kelly Rusike, who was set to be part of the line-up.
Mhlanga’s yesteryear hits like “Distant Lover”, “Shamwari” and “Mari Hakuna” were enough for him to win hearts of festival goers.
His act, which was due to end at 10pm was extended by a couple of minutes as fans pampered him with cash.
Jazz promoter Josh Hozheri was among the special guests in the big crowd.
“I only attended the last day of the festival and everything was on point to say the least.
“I was really impressed by what I saw, especially Jeys Marabini’s performance.
“He showed us that we don’t need to overlook him since he is indeed a talented jazz artist,” he said.
He also hailed Mhlanga.
“Louis is a legend and every jazz festival would want to have him on their line-up.
“Jazz is still vibrant and I was really impressed by his act.
“He arrived in the afternoon and, later in the evening, everything went according to plan.
“I hope our guys have managed to learn a thing or two from his act, professionalism.”
l JEYS MARABINI’S APPEAL
Jeys has established appeal in the capital.
“I would like to thank the Harare promoters and my new fans here in the capital.
“To be honest, I realised that I had a number of fans here and what I only ask from them is to be accepted.
“I’m ready to become a regular in Harare and build my fan base here where there are so many fans and promoters who understand my vision,” he said.
The lanky guitarist was given a slot on Saturday but was back by public demand on Sunday.
l UNITY
Chido Musasiya and Yassin Dhala, who coordinated the four-day fête, deserve credit for their exploits.
Jazz crooner Victor Kunonga, Ashton “Mbeu” Nyahora, Selmor Mtukudzi and Diana Samkange, were some of the artists who performed at the festival.
Music producer and multi-instrumentalist Clive “Mono” Mukundu was part of the crowd.
Online Reporter