Online Reporter
Amos Mpofu [email protected]
BULAWAYO- BASED jazz heavyweight Jeys Marabini is on cloud nine following the resounding response to the newly released video for “Nomakanjani,” one of the standout tracks from his latest album, ‘Umjolo’ released in July last year.
In an interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, Marabini said he has been overwhelmed by the appreciation pouring in for the project, which he crafted alongside his team with what he described as their “high standards of music art prowess.”
“This is a new song from the latest album which I loved equally as the others even before I released the album,” he said.
“For the larger audience, I have been receiving inquiries to release videos as people now listen better whilst watching. We worked on the video and we are happy that it has been released and is being received overwhelmingly by our fans around Zimbabwe and across the world, as far as America.”
The veteran artist noted that the music landscape has evolved, with audiences increasingly consuming content through a blend of sound and visuals ; largely driven by the widespread use of smartphones.
“The likes and motivating messages are pouring onto our page, which is uplifting and humbling at the same time,” he said.
“I have realised that people now love blending listening and visuals in consuming the provisions of our field. In response to this, we have done this video and, like we observed, it’s true that our fans now need the cooperation of good sound and strong visuals. We are going to do more videos for the songs we have done and those we will do, as it is what our consumers love most now. We are happy to do what our fans want and we promise to give our maximum effort on every project.”
Looking ahead, Marabini revealed an ambitious performance calendar that will see him criss-crossing the country.
“This year we are going to hold shows in and around Zimbabwe, with the first show next week in Victoria Falls and next in Harare,” he said.
“We are going to tour every part of the country this year. No province will be left behind. More good music and more creative performances will be experienced this year.”
Before wrapping up, Marabini extended heartfelt gratitude to the Ezim’nyama group of dancers who featured in the video, praising their elegance and professionalism. He also thanked the various venue providers who accommodated the production team as they travelled to different locations to bring the visual concept to life.
Special mention went to the video’s director, Mr Mathesi Dube, whom Marabini credited for the polished final product.
“The good that has come out of this video is largely credited to him,” he said.
