Online Reporter
Mkhululi Ncube, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
THE much-anticipated Martin “Big Boss” Sibanda live show clash with Mxolisi “Mr Bones” Ndlovu at a hotel in Bulawayo on Friday night lived up to its billing, delivering a memorable evening of live music and nostalgia.
Mr Bones was first on stage at 11:20pm.
This was perhaps the only slight blemish on the night, as fans had been patiently waiting for the live performances to begin, though DJs kept the crowd entertained. Once on stage, Mr Bones wasted no time, launching straight into his hit-packed set.
Backed by a crisp sound engineered by Richard Mhakure, Mr Bones delivered a flawless performance. He opened with Dlozi Lami, Ngicel’ Iz’watsho and Lizangibonga NgoJanuary. When he dropped the Faka Two anthem, the crowd erupted, singing along word for word.
At around 12:30AM, Mr Bones attempted to leave the stage, but fans begged for an encore, which he gladly delivered.
At exactly 1:11AM, the moment fans had been waiting for arrived as the Big Boss himself took to the stage. With talented bassist-turned-lead guitarist Mjapan on lead guitar and Obert Vundla on sound, the audience was taken on a musical journey spanning from the 1990s to the present day.
The crowd, dominated by a large number of women and older music lovers, sang along throughout, relishing a rare opportunity to witness the Big Boss live. His set included classics such as Ubukhosi, Gwele, Donsa, Sunduza, Abakhongi, Izambane LikaPondo, Phenduka, Uhluphile, John, Bahle, Ingqokogqoko, Konke Sizokulungisa and the crowd favourite Bakhuzeni, among others.
Despite not performing regularly in recent times, the Big Boss showed he still has the mojo, maintaining high energy and never slowing down.
As dawn approached, the crowd gradually thinned, but Martin Sibanda pressed on, passionately belting out the songs that shaped his legendary career. Any doubts about his stamina were firmly put to rest as he powered through the night with ease.
Speaking after his performance, the Big Boss said: “It was a great show by all standards, and the fans came out in their numbers.”
He said they have two more confirmed shows outside Bulawayo and are open to more bookings for the festive season.
Mr Bones, on the other hand, said the experience was special.
“We enjoyed performing alongside umdala uMartin. We had to be at our best,” said Mr Bones in a brief interview after his set.
Turning to his plans for the festive season, he said: “We have a very hectic festive season ahead, performing non-stop until January 2.”
