adminfive-member outfit outclassed four other groups to land the coveted US$1 000 prize money as well as a certificate.
The Gwanda competition marked the beginning of the Chibuku Road to Fame provincial finals that will culminate in the national competition to be held at the Glamis Arena in Harare on September 29, 2012.
Tangapasi wowed the 1 000 plus audience who thronged the venue and it was clear from the onset that they would scoop the prize judging from their confidence, stage presence, poise, choreography, attire and type of instruments.
They were clad in African attire which was a mixture of animal skins and batik-like clothes.
But it was the inclusion of a female white member in the band identified as Pamela, which caught the attention of many.
Pamela and the dreadlocked band leader, Spencer Ngwenya — to whom she is married — enthralled both the audience and the judges — comprising musicians Jays Marabini and Chase Skuza — with their act.
Ngwenya played the rhythm guitar with aplomb while Pamela complemented him well with her skills on the melodica and harmonica, two instruments which are rarely played by artistes who compete in the competition.
Pamela also surprised many when she did the backing vocals in Ndebele and then switched to some serious Ndebele dances alongside Spencer, sending the crowd into a frenzy.
“This is our third time to participate in the Chibuku Road to Fame competition and it is a shame that we haven’t won before, until now.
“Although the audience is not really used to the type of music that we play, the songs that we selected made everyone happy and we are thankful for the recognition and support they gave us,” Spencer said.
Pamela, Spencer’s wife for six years, added: “We call our music Nu-Afrow which is a fusion of jazz, reggae and traditional music. We want to offer the local music scene something fresh.”
After receiving their prize, the group left for Durban, South Africa, where four shows are lined up for them.
In second position was Matshinge Stars also from Plumtree, who walked with US$500.
The group, that was suitably attired for the occasion, showcased some traditional Ndebele music which endeared them to the crowd.
“We are happy to win this prize considering that it is our first time to take part in this competition. We are a new band which is just five months old,” said Lucious Ncube, the director of the group.
Insiza Express were voted third and pocketed US$300.
Delta Beverages’ marketing and communications manager Patricia Murambinda said it was encouraging to note that for the first time in the history of Chibuku Road to Fame, a white artiste had participated.
“It is the first of its kind since 2001 when we launched the Chibuku Road to Fame. The competition is open to every Zimbabwean whatever his/her race as long as
they meet the requirements.
“They should be between 18 and 35 years and their group plays guitars or drums.
“This is indeed a welcome and promising development and in that vein Delta Beverages promises Zimbabweans that we are going to continue showcasing raw talent in Zimbabwe,” she said.
This Saturday, the Chibuku Road to Fame competition goes to Matabeleland North province where groups from that area will battle it out at Jabulani Beerhall in Hwange.
Online Reporter