Online Reporter
Mkhululi Ncube,Zimpapers Entertainment and Arts Hub
Rhumba lovers were in for a treat on Saturday night as Mxolisi “Mr Bones” Ndlovu and Tumelo “TK” Dube teamed up for a lively show that kept fans dancing all night.
The show, which saw Mr Bones launching his latest album Giya Mkolekelwa in Bulawayo for the first time, following launches in Johannesburg and Cape Town, drew a sizeable crowd eager to watch the man many regard as the current “Rhumba man of the moment”.
With other heavyweights such as Clement Magwaza, Mlambos Express Band, Ndabitshekile, Mcebisi and Amathonga Amahle, Godolude, and Insimbi ZeZhwane preparing to drop their own albums soon, the competition for the coveted “King of the Christmas Season” title is heating up, but for now, Mr Bones has taken an early lead.
The event was also a showcase of chemistry and contrast, as TK and Mr Bones delivered distinct but complementary performances. While both are Rhumba artistes, TK – frontman of the Dubia Masters – spices his act with a captivating mix of Pantsula dance and Rhumba flair, creating a fresh, hybrid sound that thrilled the audience.
TK’s “Amapantsula boys” stole the spotlight with their high-energy dance moves and onstage antics, prompting fans to shower them with money in appreciation. His set included crowd favourites, with SaManana emerging as the night’s standout singalong.
“TK’s talent is up there. The guy has magic hands on the lead guitar, and when he mixes that with the foot switch, it’s marvellous. I really enjoyed his style on stage,” said music promoter Eliam Phiri.
Mr Bones then took over, bringing his trademark intensity and connection with the crowd. Fans sang along passionately as he performed songs from Giya Mkolekelwa, with the atmosphere reaching fever pitch when he delivered his 2024 hit Faka Two Phezu Kwebhodlela.
In a dramatic twist, one fan paid US$10 to stop the song mid-performance, daring others to double the amount to get it resumed. Another admirer, however, raised the stakes by handing Mr Bones US$100 to play his personal favourite, iDlozi, leaving fans of Faka Two hanging in suspense.
Despite minor challenges, such as limited stage visibility for fans at the back and the event’s timing just before month-end, the night was a resounding success. Mr Bones’ supporters showed their loyalty by purchasing copies of the new album in large numbers.
Reflecting on the show, Mr Bones said he was impressed by the unique edge TK brought to the lineup.
“The show went very well. I think fans enjoyed the flair that TK brought. While he sings Rhumba, his dancers bring a different feel to it. I also picked up some good lessons from this show with TK,” he said.
TK, who is set to launch his new album in South Africa this Friday, said he is perfecting his act to make it even more distinctive.
“I brought the Pantsula style to Rhumba just to carve my own sound. The fans loved the fusion, and they will see more of it soon,” he said.
The night also saw appearances from fellow artistes, including Zinjaziyamluma and Cosmas Mpofu, who came to show their support. – @themkhust
Bongani Ndlovu