Angela Sibanda, [email protected]
WHAT started as a ‘substitute show’ to fill the void left by the cancelled Vusa Mkhaya Experience turned into an unforgettable night at this year’s Intwasa Arts Festival. Aptly named the “Music Concert”, the event featured live bands that breathed life into the stage, igniting the crowd’s enthusiasm as they sang along to classics and contemporary tunes.
Ramsey K, the legendary performer, showcased his prowess as the godfather of cover songs, setting the stage ablaze with a blend of old and modern tracks spanning various genres. Ramsey took the stage as the grand finale, a strategic move by the organisers to create the music party of the year, evident in the ecstatic screams of the audience.
A moment of stillness enveloped the crowd when United States-based songstress Loveness Wesa and her friend graced the stage with classic dance moves, swaying to the rhythm of one of Oliver Mtukudzi’s songs.
Ramsey’s exit from the stage prompted a spontaneous performance of “Nono” by South African Afro-soul singer Ntando, driving the crowd into a frenzy and beckoning Ramsey back for an encore.
The show’s culmination was orchestrated by radio personalities Babongile Skhonjwa and Cde Phil, who led the audience in singing and dancing to beloved traditional songs, complemented by the band’s melodic tunes.
The atmosphere pulsated with songs like “We Mancube” and “Inkonkoni Iyajama,” among others.
The performance lineup featured Prosper and the Smart Birds band, blending covers with their own original hits.
Adrian Kaputen introduced a unique mbira experience to the stage, sparking both curiosity and appreciation.
Another band stirred the crowd with a lively “Despacito” anthem, amplified by their trumpets, while the vocally gifted Simz Masuka set the stage in motion as the opening act of the night.
Considering that this was a free admission show, attendees couldn’t help but appreciate the organisers’ generosity in delivering such an electrifying performance.



