Jamal remembered

Liberty Dube Weekender Correspondent
JAMAL loved his music so much that he spent years trying to convince me and his father that he could really be the next big thing in the music industry, if given the opportunity.

The late urban groover’s mother, Ruth, made these revelations at his commemoration gig held at Courtauld Theatre in Mutare last Saturday.

“At first we were strongly against his love for music. He was so passionate. Like every parent, we wanted him to concentrate on his education before anything else. But with time, we started supporting him after noticing some inexplicable obsession for music. He was very talented and never toiled to compose a song. May his soul rest in peace,” said the emotionally charged Ruth who was accompanied by the late singer’s daughter, Taina.

She was handed over some foodstuffs which were sourced by several urban groovers. She was this week expected to receive the proceeds from the gig.

“I am touched. I am really humbled. We used to hear Maskiri’s music on the radio. But I am happy to see him today and many other musicians,” she added.

On the blissful night Assegai Crew, Madiz, Silver Vee, Extra Large, Mzimba, Victor D, Taurai, MK47, TMG, Kritic Igwee and Flexxo, among other notable artistes, put up sterling performances.

Not even the absence of Pah Chihera, Dino Mudondo and Sani Makhalima could dampen the merry-making mood revellers were in all night through.

A surprise appearance by the Gweru-based urban groover and Handiende Kumba singer, Madiz, added glamour to the event.

Local dancehall star Robert Tondoya, popularly known as Tony D, and gifted rapper Maskiri put icing on the cake in the wee hours of the following day with some outstanding performances.

Tony D belted out hits such as Taxi Driver, Ngoma Yorira and Changu Chimoko. The dancehall chanter later during the day hosted a bash for all the artistes who performed at the gig.

“It is not everyday we mix and mingle with artistes from other cities like this. We take this opportunity to share ideas and other issues affecting our industry,” he said.