Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Veteran jazz maestro Hudson Simbarashe has called on young musicians to embrace originality in their music, urging them to create their own distinctive sound to match the high standards set by Zimbabwe’s legendary artistes.
Speaking at the recent Legends Night event held in Bulawayo, Simbarashe praised the gathering of young talent celebrating the timeless music of iconic Zimbabwean musicians. However, he emphasised the importance of new artistes crafting original songs and investing in strong marketing to truly connect with their audience.
“Yesteryear musicians were great composers because they drew inspiration from their everyday lives. That’s why their songs remain classics to this day,” said Simbarashe.
“We’re here playing these songs because they still breathe life into us. It’s a privilege to see young people celebrating these legends through song and dance.
“But new-age artistes can reach the high bars set by the old generation by creating original music that resonates with people,” he added.
The event, led by InTotal Band and supported by Iyasa and Band Fusion, featured performances covering classics by legends such as Oliver Mtukudzi, Don Gumbo, John Chibadura, Chioniso Maraire, Busi Ncube, and Leonard Zhakata.
Living legends honoured at the event included Jeys Marabini, Albert Nyathi, Ebba Chitambo of Wells Fargo, George Phahlane and Phathie Ncube of Ebony Sheikh, Chase Sikuza, Hudson Simbarashe himself, the Cool Crooners, and Sandra Ndebele. In recognition of their lasting contributions to Zimbabwe’s music industry, these icons were presented with grocery hampers as a token of appreciation.
