Online Reporter
Melissa Mpofu [email protected]
Afro-fusion singer Feli Nandi has revealed that she often doubted whether audiences would turn up for her performances during her nationwide Road to Fill Up HICC campaign, only to be left stunned by the overwhelming support she encountered across the country.
As she prepares for her Bulawayo performance this Friday, the final stop of the tour ahead of her Fill Up HICC: A Night With Feli Nandi concert on August 14, Feli Nandi has reflected on how the experience exceeded her expectations. The tour began in Bindura on May 2.
The singer who is based in Harare said she frequently questioned whether people would attend her shows, particularly in towns where she had never performed before.
“I played in Chegutu for the first time a few weeks ago and called my manager on the way, asking if people had turned up. She told me to get there and see for myself. When I arrived, I got the shock of my life,” said Feli Nandi.
According to her, the same experience repeated itself in several cities and towns across Zimbabwe.
“The same happened in Gweru, Masvingo, Mutare and Marondera. It was cold, but people were there in numbers, singing every word of my songs. While on stage, I kept wondering how they knew my lyrics so well and where they were listening to my music from,” she said.
The singer described this response from fans as emotional, saying it reaffirmed the connection her music has built with audiences around the country.
“Some people came with their young children. It was so beautiful and emotional. Thank you so much for the support, each and every one of you,” she said.
Feli Nandi said the packed venues throughout the tour have given her renewed confidence as she prepares for the biggest show of her career, the Fill Up HICC concert scheduled for Harare in August.
“I want to thank Zimbabwe, each and every person who came out as we were touring the country over the past few months. Never underestimate what it means to walk out of a vehicle and find a packed venue waiting for you,” she said.
The musician will wrap up the Road to Fill Up HICC campaign in Bulawayo at Bulawayo Theatre, where she will perform with her full band for the first time in the city as part of the tour.
“This Friday, we close it off in Bulawayo. It will be my first time performing in the city with my band as part of the Road to Fill Up HICC campaign. I really hope to see you all there. Come and let’s sing about God, love and a little bit about heartbreak,” she said.
Known for hit songs such as Mubayei, Munhu Wangu, Mufudzi Wemombe and Unotyei, Feli Nandi has emerged as one of Zimbabwe’s leading live performers, with the nationwide tour proving just how far her music has travelled beyond the major cities.
