It’s all systems go for Jeys Marabini’s 8th album launch

Mbongeni Msimanga, Sunday Life Correspondent
GROWING up in rural Filabusi did not deter Afro Jazz maestro Jeys Marabini from achieving his dream of being a renowned Zimbabwean musician.

Today, Jeys stands as one of the most distinguished and respected musicians in Zimbabwe, as he attempts to fill a musical void created by self-exiled musician Lovemore Majaivana, whose timeless classics still captivate many in the country.

In so doing Jeys is set to launch his eighth album, Thula Sana this week.

“It has taken me this long to come up with the album because I was aiming at producing a top notch album that would be laden with a unique and captivating sound and will leave my fans asking for more,” he said.

The 12-track album figuratively talks about comforting a weary child, as the theme explore being that of comforting anyone.

Some of the tracks featured on the album include, Iminwe, Jabula, Africa and Human Rights.

“I come from the rural areas and played witness to lot of things, most of them filled with suffering. My main aim was to tell people that there is hope in the future in as much as people endure a lot of suffering especially in the rural areas,” said Jeys.

After losing his parents in an accident in 2012, Jeys said he was traumatised but still managed to stand steadfast.

Jeys noted that the album featured seasoned instrumentalists and backing vocalists that have worked with the legendary Oliver Mtukudzi.

“I have continued working hard over the years and for this album I roped in experienced musicians who have acquitted themselves well in the industry and have worked with various artistes such as Oliver Mtukudzi. Not that our own people are not doing well, but because I groomed some of these individuals and they have been very supportive in my career,” he said.

Jeys appealed to the Bulawayo community to come and support his eighth album launch, which will be held at the Bulawayo Theatre on 26 April.

“I am appealing to the community of Bulawayo to come and support my album launch. It is time for people to support our own artistes so we can grow local arts,” he said.

Jeys has performed in Belgium, Italy, Spain, Holland, USA, Middle East and the United Kingdom. He has also performed at some of the world’s renowned festivals across the globe.