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Godwin Muzari Entertainment Editor—
Members of the Chimbetu family came together to salute the late music master Simon “Chopper” Chimbetu at a show held at Extra Mile Leisure Spot on Sunday. In the past it was difficult to bring the family members, especially various musicians from the clan, on one stage due to their differences, but the Sunday event opened a new chapter.
All the recording musicians from the family gathered at Extra Mile and went on stage together in a sign of unity that excited hundreds of fans at the event.
It was an event to mark 10 years after Simon’s death and the family members saw it fit to come together for the special day.
They sang Simon’s songs together. They danced to their new songs in unison and they whistled and ululated in dendera music style.
Suluman was the main act of the day and the other members – Allan, Tryson, Douglas and Saiwe – supported him in a commendable way. Other family members that are not musicians also went on stage and danced to the music.
The Chimbetus’ band members alternated on vocals, dance floor and instruments in flawless style that added colour to the memorable event.
Their nephew Richard Sakala was also part of the event. Sakala, who is a talented musician, stood with his uncles as they sang “Ndarangarira Gamba” in memory of Chopper.
Marabhi musician Kireni Zulu also took to the stage and did improvised lines on some songs.
Even Jah Prayzah, who had a show at Mushandirapamwe Hotel in the same area on the same day, took time to attend the gig and show his support for the Chimbetus.
After his Mushandirapamwe Hotel show, Jah Prayzah drove to Extra Mile and went on stage with some of his band members.
Suluman sang Jah Prayzah’s song “Zenze” as soon as the latter arrived at the venue. The crowd went wild as the musicians did a spectacular act that appeared like a rehearsed slot. But Jah Prayzah and Suluman had not rehearsed for the act. Jah Prayzah’s appearance was actually a surprise, but the duo has worked together for a long time and knows how to synchronise choreography to leave lasting impressions.
Masters of ceremony, Lionel Mkandla and Kanyemba Bonzo were up to the task of reminding people of the good old days when Chopper did the hits that made the greater part of music selection of the day.
They reminded people of the Marxist Brothers days when Simon worked with his late brother Naison. They praised the Chimbetus for the unity they exhibited at the show and encouraged the crowd to continue supporting the timeless dendera music.
Allan showed his vocal and dancing skills. Tryson did lead and backing vocals for some of the songs and Douglas made his presence felt when he took to the microphone as the last musician in line of introductions.
It was indeed a show to remember and a befitting tribute to the late great musician who died on August 14, 2005.
Online Reporter