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Trust Khosa
Top Jamaican roots-reggae legend, Burning Spear, has arrived in Harare ahead of his maiden tour of Zimbabwe.
The 79-year-old is billed to perform at the Glamis Arena as part of his “One People Tour Africa”, courtesy of Sound System Club and Friends of Jamaica.
The Jamaican reggae legend was met by the Rastafarian community, music promoters, and fans who gave him a rapturous reception.
He was accompanied by his full band. He told journalists that he was ready to meet his Zimbabwean fans.
“It is good to be here, it is part of our ‘One People Tour Africa’. I urge them to come for the show,” he said.
Asked why he has remained in the game for so long, he said: “It is part of my duty; you do not forget your duty.”
Local reggae acts comprising Cello Culture and Transit Crew, Emmanuel “Mannex” Motsi, Killer T, Merciless, MC Fydale, Judgement Yard Banso Da MC and popular songbird Feli Nandi are part of the line-up.
After the Harare affair, 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 crooner on Sunday when he makes another stopover at the Mhudi Wines Farm for another show.
Burning Spear is one of the revered Jamaican stars who command a huge following in Zimbabwe and even beyond.
His visit would be good news for the reggae community yearning for international stuff. 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, 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 dating back to the late 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 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 tipped to utilise this opportunity fully.
For local reggae acts like Mannex and Cello Culture, this is the perfect opportunity for them to show their true colours and learn from the best.
Killer T whose playlist is famed for sing-along tracks will be expected to keep the fire burning.
Not to be outdone is Feli Nandi who has invested a lot in her live performance.
She has matured a lot after leaving Mhodzi Tribe.
Online Reporter