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Mbulelo Mpofu, Showbiz Reporter
IF there is one thing that the Covid-19-induced lockdowns achieved in 2020, it would be showing us our strengths and limitations.
That was the case with Binga-born and bred Mbaqanga artiste, UGagisa (born Sihlobo Mkwananzi). Stuck at home and having nothing to do, he picked up a guitar and started practicing some chords. What started off as a pastime activity would lead to him being a fully-fledged Mbaqanga singer.
The self-taught guitarist, who sings in IsiNdebele, had his first stint with the guitar from an individual named Limukani Moyo who was discovered by Dab Three Events’ Bekezela Ncube who took him under his wing.
And now, on May 1, he will be staging a show at the Bulawayo Theatre where he will be backed by local artiste Adoe and Imbube ensemble, Ijongosi Arts.
In an interview with Chronicle Showbiz, the Usukhulile singer said, slowly but surely, things are adding up.
“It has been a long time coming since my album launch last year and preparations for the show are going well. People should expect a new sound that I’ll be sampling with Ijongosi. A lot of people are sceptical of my abilities to perform live, so this will serve as a reminder to people that Mbaqanga can also be performed live this side.
“This is an opportunity to let people into my music and this makes me happy. A lot of them don’t know my music so it’s a perfect opportunity to make myself known out there. Fun will be had and a lot of memories will be created on that night,” he said.
UGagisa has one collective project to his name, a 10-track album titled Ekhaya which was launched last year at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre.
In the past, UGagisa has worked with musician Adoe as well as poets who include the multi-award-winning Obert Dube, Stha“Um’Africakazi” Dube, Sonkomose, Thaluso Da Poet, guitarists Kinah The Music, Theo MellowSoul, AshBass, and Dab Three’s Bekezela Ncube.
In paying homage to Dab Three Events for the role they played in his musical journey, UGagisa said: “There’s no UGagisa without Dab Three Events. From nothing, they took me under their wing and I’m grateful to them for everything.” -@MbuleloMpofu
Online Reporter