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Tawanda Marwizi Arts Correspondent
As the nation celebrated Heroes and Defence holidays, musicians ushered top notch performances around the country during this period.
From comedy to live musical shows, it was a merrymaking holiday, where art lovers were spoilt for choice judging by an array of performances that were held throughout the long weekend.
Thousands of comedy lovers thronged Harare International Conference Centre on Friday where comedians Anne Kansime, Baba Tencen and Q performed.
It was not rosy for Baba Tencen who failed to rise to the occasion.
Organisers of the event said it was encouraging to see thousands coming for the event as they celebrate the important holiday on the national calendar.
That same night dancehall artiste Seh Calaz attracted hundreds of music lovers at Stodart Hall in Mbare where he celebrated his birthday.
Glendale was on fire on Sunday night as musician Alick Macheso performed at Club 007.
The musician performed until the wee hours into yesterday ushering people into Heroes holiday.
His publicist Tich Makahamadze said it was encouraging to see such a response after the release of their album “Tsoka Dzerwendo”.
“We have been doing shows since the release of the new album and the response is getting bigger by each day,” he said.
For him, that has prompted them to organise Ochestra Mberikwazvo anniversary gig.
“Macheso is one of the musicians who managed to keep the momentum for several years and we have decided to have a big bash celebrating the anniversary of the band,” he said.
That same day Suluman Chimbetu performed at Zindoga Bar.
Through his publicist Joe Nyamungoma the musician said it was important to have shows on the eve on Heroes day.
“Heroes and Defence Forces are important on the calendar of the country and it is good for musicians to have shows around the country,” he said.
Nyamungoma said the month of August was important in the history of showbiz as several important names died in that month.
“Musicians that include Simon Chimbetu died in August and it is important that players in the showbiz celebrate his life and the contribution he made in the arts industry,” he said.
Chimbetu who died on August 14, 2005 is credited for bringing vibrancy to the dendera genre.
Chimbetu got involved in the fledgling liberation struggle and at one point went as far as Tanzania after joining Zanla forces for training.
Although he did not go to the front, Simon provided moral support through his music.
Online Reporter