Online Reporter
Mkhululi Ncube [email protected]
RHUMBA fans are set for a memorable afternoon of music and style this Saturday when the inaugural All White Rhumba Gig takes centre stage at a popular leisure spot in Bulawayo.
The event, the brainchild of music promoter Mxolisi “Mr Bones” Ndlovu, will bring together some of the genre’s top performers in a celebration of rhumba music, fashion and entertainment. The concept draws inspiration from similar events Mr Bones successfully hosted in South Africa, where fans embraced an all-white dress code, transforming the occasions into colourful social and fashion experiences.
Following his return to Zimbabwe, Mr Bones has decided to introduce the concept to local audiences, giving rhumba enthusiasts an opportunity to enjoy live performances while taking part in the stylish all-white theme.
With spring now well underway and outdoor entertainment gathering momentum, organisers are expecting a strong turnout for what promises to be a vibrant and lively event.
The gig boasts a strong line-up, featuring Godolude and the Friendly Brothers, Insimbi ZeZhwane and Allen “The Ghost” Ndoda, who makes a much-anticipated return to the local stage after spending years away. Adding further variety to the programme are Afro-hip-hop performer Teekay Mxoexic and Maskandi star Zinjaziyamluma.
Popular rhumba artiste Maqedimbuzi and Happy Girl will add to the festivities as masters of ceremony.
Insimbi ZeZhwane frontman Meluleki Brema Moyo said the group was ready for the occasion and encouraged fans to attend in their numbers.
“It’s a show not to miss, and we urge fans to come dressed in white. It’s all about happiness and, this being the first time it’s happening in Zimbabwe, fans should enjoy the show,” he said.
Fans can also look forward to a high-energy performance from Godolude, whose electrifying stage presence and crowd-pleasing performances have made him a favourite among rhumba followers.
Mr Bones expressed satisfaction with the preparations and appealed to the business community to continue supporting local entertainment initiatives.
“It’s the first time the event is being held in Bulawayo, and I’m happy with the preparations. The artistes performing have their own unique styles, and fans are in for a great experience. I know many people’ve missed Allen ‘The Ghost’ Ndoda, and he’ll be on stage,” Mr Bones said.
He said organisers had made arrangements to cater for different categories of patrons, including a VIP section for those seeking a more exclusive experience.
“We urge people to come dressed in all-white; if not, at least wear white tops. Rhumba is a genre associated with smartly dressed artistes, so we want to show people out there that the rhumba genre can hold a successful all-white event.”
The event comes at a busy time for several of the participating artistes, many of whom are preparing to release new projects ahead of the festive season, adding even greater excitement to what is expected to be one of Bulawayo’s standout entertainment gatherings of the spring calendar.
— @themkhust
