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Arts Correspondents
Dendera musician Suluman Chimbetu has made an emotional plea to Tryson Chimbetu (pictured) to be part of the Simon Chimbetu Commemorations this Sunday in the Harare Gardens. Speaking at a fund-raising dinner to raise funds for schools named after the late Simon Chimbetu held in Belgravia, Harare, on Wednesday night, Suluman said the gig was a family event and as such Tryson should be part of the proceedings.
“I am pleading with you my young brother to join us at Harare Gardens on Sunday and another gig slated for Chinhoyi. This is a family thing,” said Suluman.
Tryson, who has been reported to have snubbed the commemorations citing poor remuneration, confirmed his participation at the gig.
“I had initially felt the amount offered was too little compared to the US$2 000 which we paid Sulu and company for an hour-long performance at the Dr Nero commemorations gig two months ago. The payment was despite the fact that they had countered the commemoration with a gig of their own the very same day,” said Tryson.
“However, that is now water under the bridge. I will be definitely be there and will be part of the big celebrations,” he said.
Tryson promised to put up a five-star performance with his full band something which he reckons will be etched in the minds of dendera fans for years to come.
“Sulu is my brother and just like Simon Chopper and my late father Dr Nero would work together I would like our fans to reminisce the good old times.
“These commemorations are not about personalities, but a celebration of Babamukuru Simon’s rich legacy and the dendera beat which we are all pursuing,” he added.
Tryson also revealed that inasmuch as he has a band to look after, the reasons behind the commemoration outweigh the financial gains.
So much has been said about the perceived dendera cold war between the two talented brothers and it remains to be seen how they will fare come Sunday.
There are a number of events lined up in commemoration of the late dendera maestro Simon Chimbetu and the Sunday gig is such one big event not to be missed.
Suluman is expected to lead the Chimbetus who include Allan, Tryson, Saiwe and Douglas in what promises to be the gala of the season.
Sungura maestro Alick Macheso, Mathias Mhere, Sandra Ndebele, BV Labien Musica, Peter Moyo and Jah Prayzah will all be part of the musicians who are lined to perform at the gig.
While Macheso will provide the stability due to his vast experience in the music scene, Mhere will provide the gospel touch and the blessings.
Peter “Young Igwe” Moyo will also spice up the gig and fans will see him perform some hits from his latest album “Mushonga”.
The album is proving to be a favourite among diehard Dhewa fans.
Dendera pioneer Simon Chimbetu died at the age of 50.
The gigs come eight years after Chopper’s death and have now become an annual event throughout August, under the theme “Celebrating the life of a hero and music icon”.
Online Reporter