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Trust Khosa
Organisers for the much-awaited Jamaican roots-reggae legend, Burning Spear, have unveiled some local acts who will share the stage with the musicians.
The list includes Feli Nandi, Transit Crew, Cello Culture, and some local emcees who are yet to be confirmed.
The maiden tour of Harare in October by Burning Spear, born Winston Rodney, has been embraced by the reggae community for its potential in marketing brand Zimbabwe and uplifting local talent.
The 79-year-old is billed to perform at the Glamis Arena in Harare on October 18 as part of his “One People Tour Africa”, thanks to Sound System Club and Friends of Jamaica.
After posting his video promoting the Zimbabwean show, Burning Spear has sparked widespread excitement among fans.
Locally, reggae acts and sound systems are itching to make it into the line-up that is set to catapult them to international acclaim.
As part of the build-up, event organisers are coming full circle to developing a capable line-up to provide cover at the bash.
“The dates and venue for Burning Spear’s show in Harare remain the same. We are now finalising the line-up to back him at the show on October 18.
“So far, Feli Nandi, Transit Crew, Cello Culture, and some local emcees have been confirmed,” said one of the event organisers.
The Herald Arts is reliably informed that variety is guaranteed on October 18 as Burning Spear’s handlers are geared to make a lasting impression.
“It’s going to be a unique reggae experience where we expect to give fans real value for their money.
“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for musicians who are willing to learn from the best.
“As event organisers, we are more than ready to give Zimbabweans a memorable reggae experience.”
Before the Harare show, the veteran reggae crooner will perform at Uhuru Park in Nairobi, Kenya on October 12
After the Nairobi affair, he will proceed to Harare for a one-off gig on October 18.
Burning Spear will then fly out to South Africa for another performance at Emperors Palace in Johannesburg on October 19.
Cape Town fans should brace for the reggae on October 20 when he makes another stopover at the Mhudi Wines Farm for another performance.
Burning Spear is one of the revered Jamaican stars who command a huge following in Zimbabwe and beyond.
His visit would be good news for the reggae community that as been starved of international acts.
Last year, British reggae outfit UB40 led by Ali Campbell performed in Harare.
Bob Marley paved the way for other Jamaicans when he performed at Rufaro Stadium in 1980 during the Independence celebrations.
Top Jamaican acts that have performed in Zimbabwe over the years include Morgan Heritage, Capleton, Buju Banton, Luciano, Fantan Mojah, Sizzla Kalonji, Mavado, Elephant Man, Popcaan, Chris Martin and Beenie Man among others.
With all the attention on Burning Spear, his visit will be a boost to the Rastafarian and reggae community.
The roots reggae singer-songwriter, vocalist and musician, has been in the game dating back to the late 1960s.
Born Winston Rodney on March 1, 1945, in Saint Ann’s Bay in Jamaica, the superstar is a true icon who stands for black people’s rights.
His timeless compositions are still as wonderful as ever since they carry a lot of meaning.
Some of these compositions include “Marcus Garvey”, “African Teacher”, “Obsession”, “Cry Blood”, “Open the Gate” and “Chant Down Babylon” among others.
Being his maiden tour of Zimbabwe, players in the hospitality industry have been urged to fully utilise this opportunity.
The same applies to supporting acts who have been roped into the line-up.
Local arts promoters are also tipped to exchange notes with their Jamaican counterparts and forge some alliances.
Online Reporter