Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo, [email protected]
Longevity in music is often spoken about, but rarely witnessed with the kind of force the Cool Crooners displayed at Legends Night in Harare. Decades into their career, the veteran group showed that true artistry does not fade, it evolves, adapts, and continues to resonate across generations.
Taking to the stage at the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC) on Saturday evening, the legendary outfit delivered a masterclass in endurance and showmanship. Age was clearly no barrier as they powered through a high-energy set, reminding fans why they remain one of Zimbabwe’s most enduring musical acts.
For 13 unforgettable minutes, the group delivered a scintillating performance that brought the house down. When they belted out their timeless classic “Bhulugwe Lami”, the entire auditorium erupted into a thunderous sing-along, with fans on their feet, hands in the air, and voices echoing across the venue.
“It felt like I was young again!” said a 52-year-old fan, clearly overwhelmed. “This is what we grew up on. This should always happen – it brings us back to who we are.”
Backstage, the legends themselves were just as fired up. Their spokesperson, George Salimu (83), thanked all those who continue inviting them to perform. He revealed that while demand for their music remains strong, age is inevitably a factor.
“We’re still getting bookings, but promoters and organisers should understand that age is catching up with us. Not too much work – just enough to give the audience quality,” he said.
“We are happy to perform and are still doing private functions. In fact, our last performance was about three months ago.”
Fellow Cool Crooners member Lucky Thodhlana, 85, also radiated joy after the performance.
“I enjoyed the show. The crowd gave us energy. Even though we walk with sticks, when the music plays, the body remembers,” Thodhlana said.
The group attributed their longevity to healthy living.
“We eat well and take care of ourselves. That is why we’re still here,” Thodhlana added.
However, the veterans did not shy away from addressing contemporary issues affecting the music industry. Abraham Ncube, 76, raised concerns about the increasing reliance on artificial intelligence in music production.
“AI is somehow killing talent because it’s not being used correctly. The younger generation is losing the plot. They should learn from pioneers.”
Ncube acknowledged that while some modern music shows promise, it often lacks originality.
“Some of the new crop is good, yes, but it lacks authenticity. When you call them to perform live, they sometimes fail. They don’t give value for money.”
Their performance became the emotional peak of a night that had already begun on a high note.
It was a night of drama, nostalgia and pure musical fireworks as the HICC exploded into life during a fully packed Legends Night concert that left hundreds stranded outside after tickets sold out.
Inside, it was a different story altogether, a sea of excited fans, dressed in yesteryear outfits, singing their hearts out as Zimbabwe’s golden oldies took centre stage and proved they still have the magic touch.
While the Cool Crooners provided the emotional peak, the backbone of the night was the ever-reliable Intotal Band, led by the charismatic Joseph Sax Chinouriri. Dressed in a striking white suit complemented by a black armband – reminiscent of Michael Jackson’s iconic style – Chinouriri commanded the stage with flair and precision.
From the opening note, Intotal Band set the tone, delivering a seamless medley of yesteryear hits that resonated deeply with the audience. Their repertoire paid homage to legends such as James Chimombe, System Tazvida, Fungisayi Zvakavapano Mashavave, Nicholas Zakaria, Alick Macheso, Oliver Mtukudzi, Tongai Moyo, Leonard Dembo, and Jeys Marabini – the latter also gracing the stage with a live performance that added further depth to the night.
The crowd fully embraced the theme. Dressed in vintage attire, from bell-bottom trousers to retro dresses, they transformed the venue into a living museum of Zimbabwe’s musical golden era. The synergy between music and fashion created a vibrant, immersive experience that elevated the concert beyond mere entertainment.
Chinouriri himself was left stunned by the turnout.
“I was shocked – full capacity, with people being turned away. This show has brought nostalgia,” he said.
The journey has just begun.
“We are now taking this concept to the UK, the US and Germany. There’s a huge market for this,” Chinouriri said adding that those in Bulawayo are next in line.
