adminWalter Mswazie Showbiz Correspondent
WEZHIRA Band on Saturday won the Masvingo Chibuku Road to Fame provincial finals and walked away $1,000 richer after beating five other groups.
The band will now represent the province at the national finals slated for Glamis Stadium in Harare on September 22.
The seven member ensemble got a round of applause from the appreciative crowd that thronged the closed Council Beer Hall, which was only opened for the event, courtesy of Delta Beverage and National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ).
The second prize of $500 went to a female fronted Afro Fact from Masvingo while Culture Ribs got the third prize of $300 for their efforts.
Judges had the easiest task of coming up with the overall winner as Wezhira Band were in scintillating form and had a flawless display.
NACZ deputy director Nicholas Moyo who graced the occasion, said the winners had abundant talent and urged them to brace for stiffer competition at the national finals.
“I’m impressed by Wezhira Band. Their display showed that they’ve been together for a long time. They were extremely good compared to their competitors. The group outclassed others with their Afro-fusion beat with the percussion and other instruments in sync with their vocals.
“However, they should polish up some grey areas so that they can be able to compete with the best in Harare next month,” said Moyo.
He challenged community to support local talent so that young people can make a living from singing.
“I challenge the community not to only come in numbers during events like this but also support the groups when they hold shows.
“We want a scenario where a similar bumper crowd attends these budding artistes’ shows. The same goes to the local authorities, Masvingo City council in particular. Council should provide community centres to young artistes for free so that they can rehearse” he said.
The winners’ band leader Hofmeyer Madzinga promised to do well at the finals.
“We promise that come, September 22 in Harare, we’re going to be the best group. We will bring the national trophy to Masvingo with this kind of support we’ve enjoyed,” said Madzinga.
Ward 2 Councillor who was standing in for the mayor Councillor Hubert Fidze, Clr Gacious Mundondo said music had become a source of employment.
“I’m happy that our youths were presented with an opportunity to showcase their talent,” he said.
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