Online Reporter
Zimpapers Entertainment Hub
HE has been part of the domestic musical scene since the ‘70s and, five decades later, Vincent Kapepa is still going strong.
His colleagues at Sub Sahara Jazz Tribe – a multi-generational ensemble that is steadily winning the hearts of mature music lovers across Zimbabwe – call him their greatest asset.
Sekuru Kapepa is now 76 and he plays in the same musical group whose youngest member is 24.
The group is proving that good music knows no age boundaries.
Their mission is simple: preserve the rich heritage of jazz while entertaining audiences with the classics they know and love.
The band recently launched its old-school music series at a restaurant, where patrons responded enthusiastically to performances that rekindled memories of a bygone era.
Sekuru Kapepa’s decades of experience have earned him immense respect among fellow band members and fans.
He once played with the Harare Mambos.
“In our group, we have Elder Kapepa, who has worked with several bands over the years,” said bass guitarist Owen Shamu, who is the group spokesman.
“He has seen it all and having such an elder in the group is more than a blessing.
“We cherish the experience and wisdom that he shares with us.”
Shamu said the overwhelming response from audiences has confirmed that there is still a huge appetite for authentic jazz and traditional African sounds.
“People still love old-school music because it takes them back to memorable moments in their lives.
“The response we have received has been encouraging and shows that there is still a strong market for classical jazz and traditional African sounds.”
Unlike many bands that focus solely on their own material, Sub Sahara Jazz Tribe prides itself on versatility.
“When it comes to jazz outfits on the local scene, we are more like a jukebox band where fans can request any song and we play it instantly,” said Shamu.
“Most jazz outfits internationally perform cover versions alongside their own material, a template that we are also following.”
While the group is currently concentrating on building a loyal fan base, plans are already underway to record original compositions.
“We are a team of seasoned musicians drawn from various groups and our wish is to blend that talent into one formidable outfit,” said Shamu.
“We already have quite a number of songs ready for recording and, if all goes according to plan, we will do so in the fullness of time.”
The band’s line-up also features former Frontline Kids vocalist Jevas Dzotizeyi, lead guitarist Pedzisai Arufero, drummer Moses Chirovamhangu, keyboardists Tazvivinga Chikovi and Tinashe Kakono, percussionist Panashe Mujuru, acoustic guitarist Ray Pilozo and saxophonist Derrick Marime.
For a band made up of musicians from different generations and backgrounds, maintaining harmony could be a challenge.
However, Shamu says the opposite has been true.
“Music is a universal language and I am glad that we all share a common passion that drives us every day,” he said.
“We are learning from each other and that alone has made our task much easier with each passing day.
“We are all pulling in one direction and we do not have internal conflicts at all.”
As more venues begin opening their doors to live jazz performances, Shamu believes the genre is poised for a revival.
Backed by businessman and jazz enthusiast, Graciano Kapfunde, Sub Sahara Jazz Tribe has quickly positioned itself as one of the exciting new acts on the local live music circuit.
The project draws inspiration from Jabavu Drive, a popular outfit that was also managed and sponsored by Kapfunde.
“Now that we have new venues such as The Grub hosting jazz sessions, we are guaranteed a revival of the good old days of classical jazz,” he said.
“Jazz is for mature audiences who appreciate class and perfection. It is not only about music, but also about class and enjoyment.”
