Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
ENZO Ishall has spoken about the violence which rocked his show in Shurugwi recently where missiles were tossed onto the stage and some people were injured.
The star’s manager, Ngoni Nyamunokora, said many factors, which were beyond their control, were responsible for the chaos.
“While the incident was beyond our control, it served as a lesson for us to understand the people we are dealing with.
“In that case, it was a matter of power cuts and delays in restoring power, which irked fans. It was beyond our control. From that incident, we have also noted that our hosts should have back-up power for the smooth running of gigs.”
Ngoni said the star was a perfectionist who has set standards that must be upheld.
“Whenever we are booked to perform, there are standards we always want to meet, such as the type of sound styles to be used, stage set-up, lighting, and more. If the standards are poor, we won’t perform or will simply reschedule because we don’t want to disappoint our fans.
“We also prioritise the safety of the band and, of course, our fans.”
Ngoni said they embrace criticism all the time.
“We are open to criticism and we welcome people with suggestions and fresh ideas to come forward and make their voices heard.
“We have an open-door policy, and it is our wish to ensure that we give fans what they need most.”
Enzo Ishall has promised his fans major surprises as he embarks on a massive rebranding mission to stay relevant.
His camp says the chanter is determined to change, starting with his appearance and then music.
He has cut his trademark dreadlocks and is now sporting a clean-shaven look, which has sent social media buzzing.
Musically, he is currently in the studio creating more music.
Ngoni said:
“We might be enjoying a purple patch judging by the demand for our services and music but we are not going to rest on our laurels since music demands a lot.
“When we say we are rebranding, it means changing many things, starting with our looks to show people our serious intent.
“He has cut his dreadlocks and I don’t think he will return to them as he is serious about his brand and image.
“From that hairstyle, we are going bold, and we really mean it.”
He dismissed reports that the artist was contemplating a switch to gospel music.
“We are not doing that because we have learnt from Baba Harare.
“You all know the story of Baba Harare, who, after dissing Jiti to join gospel, cut his dreadlocks but had to wear them again after making that dramatic U-turn.”
Musically, he acknowledged that there is still room for improvement in terms of stage performances and presence.
“Enzo is one of the few youthful musicians backed by a live band, and we are investing heavily in it.
“Performing with a live band is quite engaging but serious rehearsals are necessary —something we are working on to leave a mark.
“Fans have embraced his initiative to form a band and we can only complement them by delivering our best.”
Ngoni, who manages a youthful team, vowed to instil discipline in the camp as part of their rebranding mission.
“Music requires discipline and punctuality for us to be counted among the elite. Without discipline, the whole mission won’t bear fruit, and we are determined to ensure we achieve all this.
“In our camp, we expect every member to behave and take full responsibility for their actions.”
As the year comes to an end, the manager assured fans of new singles.
“We are going to release three singles starting on the 17th of November and continuing onwards.
“It’s a mission we want to accomplish before the year ends to ensure we finish the year on a high note,” he said.
This year, he took part in the Castle Tankard, Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance finals after-party, Bulawayo Shutdown Gig, and the recent Castle Lager Braai Fest.
He is determined to leave an impression as he continues to rule the roost among the elite chanters of his generation.
