Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Organisers of the annual Kadoma Music Festival are optimistic about this year’s event, insisting it will remain a one-day affair despite fans’ requests for a multi-day format.
Scheduled for October 11 at the Odyssey Hotel in Kadoma, the festival promises an exciting lineup featuring two prominent Jamaican artists Busy Signal and Chris Martin.
In addition to these international headliners, local talents such as Alick Macheso and Winky D will also grace the stage.
The lineup is further enriched by consistent songbird Feli Nandi, Sylvester “Freeman” Chizanga, US-based star Julian King, and Chimurenga prince Kurai Makore.
Given the strength of this diverse roster, many fans believe that a two-day event would be more fitting.
The Kadoma Music Festival has a longstanding tradition of promoting Kadoma as a hospitality hub.
Over the years, it has not only empowered local artists but has also played a crucial role in elevating the profile of the mining town, often referred to as the City of Gold.
“I understand what some of the people have been suggesting—that we make it a two-day event—but we have just settled on October 11. We won’t change that because it is straining to make it a two-day event. We will certainly keep it as a one-day event, and we want fans to come in numbers and enjoy themselves. It’s an annual event that has become popular with fans, and we want them to enjoy it to the fullest,” stressed festival pioneer Tichaona Maradze.
The Kadoma businessman, who has since passed the baton to his son Prince Mharadze, told Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub that it has always been their wish to make sure they bring fans to Kadoma.
“Our wish has always been to make fans happy, and this festival has become a national event. If you have been following the trends, you will realise that it is attracting hordes of fans from across the country. The festival has also created moments that many people still cherish. We will continue doing our best to make sure fans enjoy themselves.”
Judging by the line-up, fans are in for a real treat, as Busy Signal and Chris Martin are tried-and-tested performers.
The duo has previously performed in Zimbabwe, and a lot is expected as they return to our turf. Known for their energetic performances, the pair is well-known for bringing their artistic verve wherever they perform.
On the local front, Macheso needs no introduction. He has mastered the game and is currently in a buoyant mood as he celebrates his 57th birthday. He has been celebrating 26 years at the helm of Orchestra Mberikwazvo, making him one of Zimbabwe’s most sought-after entertainers.
Winky D is just a crowd-pleaser whose stage communication and interaction are awesome.
As for Feli Nandi, it’s hard to believe that she is the same lady who used to be Ashton “Mbeu” Nyahora’s backing vocalist.
She is in a league of her own as she continues to represent the girl-child with pride. The diva, who gives her all on stage, has a rich catalog of sing-along tracks such as “Mubayei,” “Mufudzi Wemombe,” and “Muti Watemwa,” among others.
One of the most sought-after acts in the line-up is Makore, who hardly disappoints.
The son of US-based Chimurenga guru Thomas “Mukanya” Mapfumo has hardly disappointed. Previously, he featured on the same platform where he was auditioned and passed with flying colors. Known for his energy-sapping performances, Makore is undoubtedly one of Zimbabwe’s finest artists to be cherished for years.
He simply loves his job, and fans can expect fireworks from him.
Another artist who is evolving with each passing week is Freeman. He now plays with a live band, which has made his act tighter and more engaging. Performing with a live band has made his act powerful and enhanced his performance.
With a live band, one can improvise, which has been lacking among other local acts. As for Julian King, the US-based singer’s patriotism is beyond words. He loves his country to bits.
Each time he finds a platform to perform in Zimbabwe, he gives it his all.
He is simply in a league of his own.
He loves what he does, and Kadoma should brace for a memorable act from him.
Raised in Chitungwiza, Julian King has his roots at heart, and the same love will come under the spotlight in October when the Kadoma Music Festival returns by public demand.
With all the local acts having confirmed their participation, there’s no doubt that fans are in for a real treat.
As the countdown has reached its fever pitch in July, anticipation continues to build.
With its stellar lineup and commitment to showcasing local talent, the Kadoma Music Festival is set to be a memorable celebration of music and culture, reaffirming its importance in the region’s artistic landscape.
