Online Reporter
Trust Khosa, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
LEGENDARY South Africa-based jazz guitarist Louis Mhlanga is expected to arrive in Zimbabwe this morning, landing at Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport as he begins the first leg of the Moving Jazz Café series in Bulawayo.
Returning home with his original live band for the first time in 30 years, Mhlanga is set to deliver a soulful experience for mature music lovers, reigniting the flame of a genre many feared was fading.
The Bulawayo concert, powered by Jazz 105 and hosted by Josh Hozheri in partnership with Mehluli “Taz” Moyo of Tracy Mason Media, is scheduled for Friday at Kings Kraal. Joining Mhlanga on stage will be regional jazz favourites Vuyo Brown, Hudson Simbarashe, and Gog’Bekezela.
The second leg of the tour moves to Harare’s Centurion Pub & Grill on Saturday, where Mhlanga will perform alongside Victor Kunonga, Prudence Katomeni-Mbofana, Philip Svosve, his band Jabavu Drive, and the Sub Sahara Tribe Jazz Band.
In an interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, show organiser Josh Hozheri confirmed Mhlanga’s itinerary, noting that the jazz maestro’s early arrival is intended to allow time for rehearsals with his full band.
“He’s eager to perform for Zimbabwean fans and has chosen to come early for rehearsals. One of his long-time collaborators, Sam Mataure, is already in Bulawayo waiting to reunite with Louis,” said Hozheri.
The promoter added that Bulawayo’s rich jazz heritage made it the ideal starting point for the tour.
“Bulawayo remains the heartbeat of Zimbabwean jazz. This is the city that gave us the Cool Crooners and other iconic jazz acts. It’s only fitting that we begin the celebration here.”
Mhlanga’s return to Zimbabwe marks a significant moment in the genre’s revival, especially as jazz continues to face challenges such as limited venues, promoter interest, and sponsorship. This tour, supported by Ingwebu Breweries, NetOne, and Romapix Construction, aims to re-energise jazz fans and introduce the genre to new audiences.
“This will redefine the jazz experience. It’s not every day that you get a full live performance from Louis with his original band,” Hozheri said.
In Harare, anticipation is high. Victor Kunonga, known for his poetic compositions, described jazz as timeless.
“A lot has been said about jazz and its decline, but its spirit will never die. Genres come and go, but jazz lives on,” he said.
Prudence Katomeni-Mbofana, who features on Kunonga’s classic track Maidarirei, echoed the sentiment: “Jazz never lost its audience; it only lost its platforms. I’m grateful to 105 Promotions and Taz for bringing us together again.”
Mhlanga’s profile reflects his skill and versatility. Having picked up the guitar at the age of 10, he grew up imitating legends like Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles, and Led Zeppelin, later blending these influences with Southern and West African guitar traditions. His distinctive style incorporates mbira patterns of the Shona people, giving his electric guitar a uniquely African sound.
Now in his 60s, Mhlanga continues to fly the Zimbabwean flag high in international jazz circles. His classics such as Distant Lover, Shamwari, Lover, and Kugarisana Nevamwe Zvakanaka remain firm favourites among jazz enthusiasts.
With top local stars, a full live band, and renewed interest in the genre, the Moving Jazz Café series promises an unforgettable two-city celebration that will prove jazz still matters.
