Chronicle Editor
Bongani Ndlovu, [email protected]
AFRO Jazz artiste, BS Brown, successfully launched his debut album, Selimathunzi, described as a testament to our cultural identity, fostering a sense of belonging within our communities.
This was said by the Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Matabeleland South, Mrs Latiso Dlamini-Maseko, on Saturday.
She was representing the guest of honour, Deputy Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Omphile Marupi, who had a bereavement.
The album launch was held at Harvest House International Church Music Hub in Bulawayo and attended by various artistes, such as legendary Black Umfolosi founder Sotja Moyo.
The sizeable crowd that also had BS Brown’s father, his wife and children enjoyed the launch of his career.
BS Brown, who hails from Gwanda but is based in Plumtree, entertained the crowd with samples of the eight tracks that comprise the album.
Some of the songs include, the title track Selimathunzi, Yindoda Enjani, Uhlezi Bheya, Amavimbadlebe, Kulungile Nkosi and Thatha Wese.
Mrs Dlamini-Maseko also took to the stage to dance to his song Ukuthanda Umuntu, which she had requested. She also bought the album for US$50.
In her remarks, Mrs Dlamini-Maseko said BS Brown’s album has a message of unity and social cohesion.
“Music as a tool for social cohesion has the power to unite us, transcending boundaries and fostering social cohesion; BS Brown’s album embodies this spirit, conveying ideas that resonate with our shared humanity,” said Mrs Dlamini-Maseko.
“It also serves as a tool for preserving cultural heritage. Selimathunzi is not only a masterpiece of music but also a testament to our cultural identity, fostering a sense of belonging within our communities.”
Mrs Dlamini-Maseko said such music promotes Zimbabwe’s cultural industry.
“The album will play a vital role in economic growth by promoting our cultural industry. BS Brown’s album contributes to our President, Cde Dr E.D. Mnangagwa’s vision of an upper-middle-income economy by 2028. It demonstrates the potential of creative entrepreneurship in driving economic growth,” said Mrs Dlamini-Maseko.
She urged people to support BS Brown and his career and uplift Zimbabwe.
“Let the rhythms of our very own province, Matabeleland South, resonate across Zimbabwe and beyond, as BS Brown’s music ignites a brighter future. Therefore, I call upon everyone here present to come together to support BS Brown’s music and uplift Zimbabwe’s creative industry. And to BS Brown, may your music inspire the nation to dream big and may Matabeleland South’s spirit forever shine,” she said.
Black Umfolosi founder Moyo said music has been his source of livelihood since he was 17 and BS Brown should use his talent to feed his family.
After his performance, BS Brown said he was grateful for the support that people had given him by attending the album launch.
“I am so overwhelmed that people came to witness me launching an album. I didn’t expect such a response from people and I am so grateful to them. I would like to thank Mrs Dlamini-Maseko for gracing the album launch, it shows that what I am doing is serious and has got weight,” said BS Brown.
What next for BS Brown? He said he will be releasing music videos for some of the tracks on the album.
Selimathunzi” marks BS Brown’s first official album, but he has been involved in music for years. He began singing in primary school, inspired by his father, a part-time musician with the Imbube Music Group in the 1970s. From singing at church gatherings and weddings to becoming a member of the Imbube group Ugodlwayo Omnyama, his journey has been deeply rooted in music and performance.
As Founder and Executive Director of YES Trust Zimbabwe, a youth-focused NGO dedicated to education, health and social protection through the arts, BS Brown’s passion for empowerment extends beyond music. He is also one of 17 global leaders for the United Nations’ Generation Equality Action Coalition, advocating to end gender-based violence against women and girls.
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