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Maria Chiguvari
ICONIC Jamaican roots-reggae legend, Winston “Burning Spear” Rodney, is in town after flying into Harare yesterday ahead of his maiden tour of Zimbabwe.
The 79-year-old is set to perform at the Glamis Arena tomorrow as part of their ongoing “One People Tour Africa.”
Last night his management addressed a press conference on his behalf, citing tiredness, after a lengthy flight to this part of the world. The reggae legend’s management team said the legendary musician was humbled and overwhelmed by the love shown by the local fans. The team said they were happy that his new album “No Destroyer” has been nominated for a Grammy award.
“The new album is nominated for the Grammy awards and we feel a lot of love that the song Mommy, which is also on the album, is trending all over the world.
“Burning Spear has a lot of love for Africa and the tour is about the love he has for Africa,” said a representative.
Local acts – Cello Culture and Transit Crew, Emmanuel “Mannex” Motsi, Killer T, Merciless, MC Fydale, Judgement Yard, Banso Da MC and songbird Feli Nandi are part of the line-up.
After the Harare show, Burning Spear will fly out to South Africa for another performance at Emperors Palace in Johannesburg on Saturday.
Cape Town fans should brace for the legend on Sunday when he makes a stop-over at the Mhudi Wines Farm for another show.
By the end of his local tour, Burning Spear would have joined a list of revered Jamaican acts who have performed in Zimbabwe over the years.
They include Morgan Heritage, Capleton, Buju Banton, Luciano, Fantan Mojah, Morgan Heritage, Sizzla Kalonji, Mavado, Elephant Man, Popcaan, Chris Martin and Beenie Man, among others.
The roots reggae singer-songwriter, vocalist, and musician, has been in the game since the ‘60s.
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.
Some of his iconic compositions include “Marcus Garvey”, “African Teacher”, “Obsession”, “Cry Blood”, “Open the Gate” and “Chant Down Babylon,” among others.
Online Reporter