Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, [email protected]
CONTEMPORARY musician Jah Prayzah will no longer perform at this year’s Jacaranda Music Festival, which gets underway today, following the death of businessman Sir Wicknell Chivayo, his wife Lucy Muteke and other occupants, after they were involved in a helicopter crash in the Marondera area on Wednesday.
The three-day festival runs from today until Sunday at Thornpark Polo Club in Harare.
Jah Prayzah, who was billed to perform with his 3G The Band, announced his withdrawal in a statement, saying the recent tragedy had left him and his team unable to take to the stage.
“It is with a heavy heart that I share that 3G The Band and I will unfortunately not be able to perform at Jacaranda Music Festival today. Following the recent tragedy and loss that has deeply affected me and the entire team, we are simply not in a position to go on stage at this time.
“We would like to sincerely thank the Jacaranda Music Festival team for their understanding and support during this difficult time. The festival continues as planned, and to everyone who had intended to attend, please still go out and support Jacaranda Music Festival. We wish the entire team a successful event.
“We appreciate all the love, support and words of comfort that we have received and continue to receive during this difficult time. Thank you for understanding,” he said.
Jah Prayzah’s withdrawal comes shortly after he postponed his wedding, which had been scheduled for Saturday in Harare.
The musician postponed the ceremony following the death of Chivayo, whom he described as more than a friend, but a brother and someone who had walked closely with him and his family through different chapters of their lives.
Meanwhile, Jacaranda Music Festival organisers have confirmed that the event will continue as scheduled, with several local and international artistes billed to perform during the three-day festival.
