admin
Problem Masau Arts Correspondent
The much-hyped “Reggae/dancehall Bandfest 2013” ended prematurely at Cresta Lodge in Harare after police stopped the gig, admittedly as late as 3am, after Eastlea and Greendale residents complained about the noise. Some fans felt shortchanged when the all night gig ended just after 3am.
Only Dhadza D, Nadine Brown, Mic Inity and a few others had performed while King Shaddy, Freeman and Guspy Warrior failed to take to the stage after the organisers were forced to end the show earlier than scheduled.
“It is disappointing really, these people shortchanged us. If it was in the ghetto they were not going to get away with it. I paid US$5 to see Freeman and Guspy Warrior but I am told to go home,” said one fan.
Dj Smylie of Legendary Sound who was emceeing at the gig confirmed the disruption by police saying it came as a surprise.
“We thought everything was sorted only to be surprised when the police came and shut down the gig,” he said.
A spokesperson for Red Fox who organised the gig said they were only concerned about artistes and music promotion.
“We were only promoting the show but the police clearance and everything should have been organised by the venue owners who in this case were Cresta Lodge,” the spokesperson said.
Nadine, who backs Mic Inity, showed that she can stand on her own after the death of her husband Andy Brown last year.
She is getting better with each show and she was a joy to watch on stage. Popularly known as Lady Fire, Nadine is climbing up the ladder on the reggae/dancehall scene as one of the most talented female chanters.
If there is any artiste who is enjoying a purple patch in his career then it must be Dhadza D. As has become the norm, the musician was at the top of his game when he took to the stage.
Dressed in military fatigue, Dhadza D opened his act with the hit song “Dairai”.
The Chitungwiza-born chanter has got great stage presence and his act was characterised by energetic performances.
Then came Sniper Storm aka The General. Sniper performed a mix of his yesteryear and recent songs much to the delight of the crowd.
Throughout his show, Sniper exhibited well-choreographed dances that thrilled fans.
Online Reporter