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. . Nkululeko Nkala
THE news of the passing on of Joe Maseko started trickling in on Saturday evening.
It was so devastating we could not continue with our evening as if all was normal. Condolence messages are still trickling in even after the burial of the legendary music producer.
He was buried at Luveve Cemetery on Wednesday.
The 44-year-old is credited with starting many music careers in Bulawayo after having recorded acts like Black Umfolosi, Jeys Marabini, Sandra Ndebele, Iyasa and even Culture Spears from Botswana.
I have to say I never had personal interaction with the producer but I knew a great deal of his work and admired him. If the numbers at his funeral are anything to go by, then Joe was a people person.
Speaker after speaker spoke of his humbleness and his deft touch when it came to music. Of note though is the cry for support of local creatives.
Skyz Metro FM and Khulumani FM representatives Babongile Sikhonjwa and Mkhluli Luphahla spoke of a need for support for creatives so they can make a living and be the celebrities they are supposed to be.
People from all walks came in their numbers. Artistes of all kinds were there to pay their last respects. Media in the form of Chronicle, Sunday News, Newsday , B-Metro, Khulumani FM, Skyz Metro and ZBC were all there.
The most interesting was the testimonies by the many groupings from gospel artistes, churches, young artistes and producers.
This guy did not like the spotlight but he created many careers and inspired many others. I felt like I cheated myself for never getting a chance to work with him.
I also must applaud creatives for working together in giving one of their own a proper send off. Special mention goes to Thulani Harsh Touch who carried the work on his shoulders from day one.
He used his PA Sytem, generator, transport and personal resources to make the send off a fitting one. It will not be proper to also not mention the 24 gospel artistes who recorded a tribute track for the sound engineer.
I know we have a wrong culture as a creative sector to celebrate many of our own after they have passed on, so I join the rest of the City in encouraging that we celebrate each other as we live.
I know no one wished for the young light to burn out yet but thank you Joe for shaping our music and the many careers. Rest in power king, until we meet again.
To the creatives and his family, may his legacy shine on. Until next week, be safe…
@nkuenkala 0772214373
derick.khumalo