Online Reporter
Maria Chiguvari,
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
AMON Mvula’s family is set to honour his remarkable contribution to African music through a series of commemorative events aimed at preserving his legacy.
He died from pneumonia in 2008 at the age of 36.
Leading the initiative is the late Amon’s younger brother, Gibson Mvula, who says the planned tributes will celebrate the life and achievements of one of Zimbabwe’s most gifted entertainers.
Amon’s career transcended borders and earned him international acclaim.
In an interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, Gibson said one of the shows, which was scheduled for last month in South Africa, were cancelled due to the ongoing xenophobia attacks.
Gibson said the commemorative activities are intended not only to remember his brother’s life but also to educate younger generations about the impact he made on Zimbabwean and South African music.
“We had planned to host a show in South Africa but due to the ongoing xenophobia we had to stop the event.
“Amon dedicated his life to entertaining people and promoting our culture through music and dance.
“We want his story and achievements to continue inspiring young artists,” he said.
Gibson said to celebrate the legend, they are preparing a project titled “Gibson Mvula Makorokoto Vol 1.”
Amon Mvula rose to fame through his signature “bicycle dance,” an acrobatic performance in which he spun a bicycle wheel on different parts of his body, including his hands, face and belt buckle.
He first showcased his talent as a street performer along Harare’s First Street Mall before joining music groups as a dancer.
During the ‘90s, he worked with sungura musician Alick Macheso in the early days of Khiama Boys and was also a cousin of the late legend Nicholas Zakaria.
Seeking broader opportunities, he relocated to South Africa, where he built an impressive musical career on the Venda music scene.
His unique fusion of Zimbabwean rhythms and Venda lyrics earned him widespread popularity and multiple South African Music Awards (SAMAs).
Throughout his career, he collaborated with some of South Africa’s biggest names, including Peta Teanet, Penny Penny and Ebony, while also sharing the stage with Zimbabwean music icon Oliver Mtukudzi.
His brother said he remembers him as a fun-loving traditionalist whose creativity extended beyond singing and song writing.
“We are also looking forward to hosting a family show and a series of events. He had an extraordinary ability to connect with audiences.
“His bicycle dance wasn’t just entertainment it became his identity and a symbol of his originality.
“He proudly carried Zimbabwean culture wherever he performed,” he said.
Gibson said the planned tribute events are expected to bring together family members, fellow musicians, fans and cultural stakeholders to celebrate the life of an artist whose influence stretched beyond music into dance and cultural expression.
