Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
For Zimbabwean urban contemporary singer Ngoni Kambarami, returning home this has been a long-awaited reunion with family, friends and fans after years of living in the United Kingdom.
The UK-based musician, who now works in a factory, says he is homesick and eagerly looking forward to reconnecting with his loved ones when he launches his latest project, Chronicles, next month
The Mabvuku-bred singer is particularly excited about sharing the stage with longtime friends and fellow musicians Alexio Kawara and Tally Bee.
“My expectations for this album launch at Mbare Grills are high,” Kambarami told Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub.
“For your own information, I have not shared the stage with local artists for a long time, especially those back home.
“I have also not had the chance to perform some of the songs I have released over the past six years. So, I would like to give fans a taste of the homegrown music that has always been within me.
“So, I’m excited. My expectation is simply for people to have fun, enjoy a drink and the music, and experience the journey I’ve been on over the past 22 or 23 years. Hopefully, we will get a great response from the fans. So far, ticket sales have been encouraging.”
Explaining the meaning behind his album title, Chronicles, Kambarami said it reflects his personal journey through life.
“Chronicles is basically my diary, documenting the different phases of my life and the lessons I have learnt along the way.
“I’ve got a lot of love songs, as usual. The album narrates how I perceive life, love, people and the struggles we all go through.
“It also celebrates the good times. Working on this project taught me a lot because I worked mostly by myself, although I also had the opportunity to collaborate with one or two artists.”
Having spent several years abroad, Kambarami also praised the wealth of musical talent emerging in Zimbabwe.
“I think Mr Conscious is one of the most talented up-and-coming musicians, alongside Master H.”
He said he was especially looking forward to reuniting with Alexio Kawara and Tally Bee on stage.
“I can’t wait to share the stage with Tally Bee and, of course, Alexio Kawara, whom I have greatly missed over the years.
“We have not had the opportunity to be in the same place at the same time, sharing music, for a very long time. I’m really excited about that.”
On why he chose Mbare Grills as the launch venue, Kambarami said accessibility played a major role.
“I struggled a bit while looking for a venue.
“It is also close to the CBD, making it convenient for people travelling from Mabvuku and other suburbs. They can easily catch one bus into town or simply use an inDrive.”
Kambarami also weighed in on the fight against drug and substance abuse, urging Zimbabweans from all walks of life to play their part. “I would like to encourage people from different walks of life to join the fight against drug and substance abuse.
“I am glad that many campaigns are being held because they show that we are all taking part in fighting this new cancer in our society.“I will also use my influence to make sure that I add my voice to this important cause.” He added that singer Diana Samkange would also feature at the album launch.
