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MARK NGWAZI has described his maiden tour of the United Kingdom as a dream come true.
The Njanja Express leader thrilled fans in Leicester at this year’s edition of the SAMA Festival where the likes of Baba Harare, Mai TT, Holy Ten, Gemma Griffiths and Seh Calaz performed.
Ngwazi was the toast of the night as he left fans clamouring for more last weekend.
In an interview with H-Metro, Ngwazi said he was humbled by the support he got.
“To be honest with you, I was very excited by the number of fans who showed me love in the UK.
“I think I now have more fans in the UK than at home because my music is appreciated a lot there,” joked Ngwazi.
The pint-sized guitarist, who also made his debut at the SAMA Festival, said the tour has opened more doors for him.,
“After the show, a number of music promoters approached me and we are now in the process of holding more shows.
“I’m grateful to Y2K who made this tour a success and made my dream come true.
“It’s like I am still dreaming that I was in the United Kingdom performing for a different crowd altogether.
“We have been longing for this opportunity to come and I am happy that the Lord has fulfilled one of my wishes.”
Y2K spokesperson, Belinda Magejo, described this year’s edition as a success.
She, however, noted that they were nervous when they announced the line up.
“When the line up first came out, the reaction wasn’t that good.
“It was sort of a 50-50 because people know Y2K for promoting big bands as we normally bring three or four groups.
“In short, this year’s SAMA Festival was a success and the crowd turnout was great.
“All the artists put in 100 percent effort. The response from the crowd was great,” she said.
Magejo said they were also surprised by the positive feedback they got from fans.
“Some of the fans, who had vowed not to attend the show, came to us and confessed that they had a wonderful time with Zimbabwean musicians.
“We never anticipated the kind of feedback we received and it shows that fans have a lot of faith in us.”
She added: “We made sure all the artists, who were performing, were at the venue early so they could mix and chill out with the kids. “All the kids managed to take pictures with the artists before they got on stage to perform.”
Magejo said they decided to depart from the norm by giving young artists a chance to shine.
“This year, Y2K director, Alex Marapara, decided to rebrand and capture younger generations.
“On our entertainment calendar, we also added the Legends Tour to be held on the 26th of August.
“It will include Winky D, Jah Prayzah, Makhadzi, Mambo Dhuterere and Thomas “Mukanya” Mapfumo to capture mature crowds and families.”
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter