Dudu Manhenga’s highly-anticipated concert marks return to live music

AFTER a significant hiatus from the live music scene, celebrated Afro-jazz performer and composer Dudu Manhenga is set to make a triumphant return this Friday with a concert that promises to be a nostalgic journey through her most beloved hits.

The event will take place at the Zimbabwe-German Society in Milton Park, Harare.

Backed by a talented ensemble led by her husband and drummer, Blessing Mparutsa, Manhenga will be joined on vocals by their children, affectionately known as “the Cubs”.

This family affair adds a personal touch to what fans can expect to be an unforgettable evening.

The concert is more than just a showcase of music; it is an opportunity for Manhenga to reconnect with her audience after a period spent focusing on her ministry and various social entrepreneurial projects.

These endeavours include developing an educational facility aimed at supporting children in need, showcasing her commitment to community upliftment beyond her musical career.

Fans can look forward to an evening filled with tunes from her six albums released since 2003, songs that have resonated not only in Zimbabwe but also across borders in countries like South Africa, Botswana, and even as far as Italy and Denmark.

The concert, aptly titled ‘Dudu Live in Concert’, will also feature a sneak peek of her new material.

Half an hour into the performance, attendees will have the exclusive opportunity to experience her latest production, the song and video for “Munotidisisa,” freshly delivered from the studio.

Concert-goers will also be among the first to access the track online.

Manhenga, who began her professional journey at the tender age of 16 in 1997, has built a reputation as a world-class act.

Her extensive touring history includes notable performances alongside top national and international artistes.

In 2009, she participated in the FLAME project, collaborating with women musicians from South Africa and Mozambique, and she garnered international acclaim in 2011 and 2012 during her tours in Italy, where she performed for Pope Benedict XVI and was honoured with the “Italian 25th Grand Prix Award for Social Communication.” – Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu