Sundaymail Editor
Dennis Chimanzi
TERRY Gee, an aspiring Zimdancehall artiste who is living with disability, is not a happy man.
Born Tichaona Terrence Green, the musician says musicians with disabilities are being side-lined when it comes to live shows.
Terry Gee won the hearts of many after his song “Wekubereka” went viral.
The chanter argues that musicians with disability must be given equal opportunities as their able-bodied counterparts.
“My music can sell just like that of any other artiste. I deserve to be treated fairly and must be given slots to perform during live shows, especially during major events. I have the capacity to dazzle the crowd,” said Terry Gee.
The musician said he was fighting on behalf of musicians with disability, including Tongai “Greatman” Gwaze and Chipo Muchegwa, whom he said are also facing similar challenges.
“On behalf of any artiste who is living with a disability, we are pleading with the promoters to please consider us when they plan events. They must come to our rescue. Music is a major source of income for some of us,” added Terry Gee.
However, veteran music promoter Partson “Chipaz” Chimbodza said the door was open for everyone.
Chipaz added that no artiste is discriminated for whatever reason.
“In Zimdancehall, we have an open- door policy. We have people living with disabilities that perform during several live shows that we organise. We are going to have so many live gigs and those that are interested should come to us so that we can make the necessary arrangements,” said Chipaz who spoke on behalf of other promoters.
“If there is any artiste that feels neglected, they should feel free to approach us.”
Chipaz, was, however, quick to bemoan acts of violence that have become synonymous with Zimdancehall gigs.
“Of late, Zimdancehall shows have been plagued by violence. Artistes living with disabilities can be vulnerable in such situations hence we need to address this crisis,” notes the promoter.
Meanwhile, Terry Gee and Muchegwa are working on a collaboration song titled “Zvemoyo”.
“It is a good song that I am sure most people will like. We are not in the game to make numbers but to compete. The song will be out soon.”
Online Reporter