Online Reporter
Lawrence Moyo
IT’S being called the OFFER OF THE CENTURY – a staggering US$1,5 million package for legendary musician Thomas “Mukanya” Mapfumo from businessman Wicknell Chivayo.
While congratulating Jah Prayzah on his 39th birthday on Saturday, Chivayo dropped a US$1,5 million offer for Mukanya to grace Jah Prayzah’s wedding in August and the businessman’s birthday party.
Chivayo will celebrate his 44th birthday on November 22.
He has US$500,000 for Mukanya to perform at Jah Prayzah’s wedding and US$1 million to grace the businessman’s birthday celebrations.
There were no other conditions set and those closer to Mukanya are treating the two huge figures as performance fees.
It emerged yesterday that Mukanya has had to put away his phone amid overwhelming calls and messages from people interested to give their opinion on the latest developments.
Mukanya turned 81 on Thursday and is winding up his music career with farewell shows having been lined up for this year.
But while the immediate speculation, supported by the reposting of old interviews, is that Mukanya will turn down the offer, there is credible suggestion that he could end his career by accepting Chivayo’s offer.
Two of Mukanya’s former lieutenants – Cuthbert Chiromo and Blessing Vava – believe the latest offer from Chivayo is the best way to cap an illustrious career.
Speaking EXCLUSIVELY to H-Metro yesterday, his former long-serving manager, Chiromo, said the time has come for Mukanya to be rewarded for his contribution to Zimbabwe music.
Chiromo, who is currently in Zimbabwe, remains a part of Mukanya’s inner circle.
“If it is a straightforward performance contract, I see no obstacle. We have not yet had the opportunity to discuss specifics as he is currently inundated with calls and messages regarding this matter,” said Chiromo.
Regarding instant social media pressure that Mukanya should NOT accept the deal, Chiromo said most of those asking the veteran musician to snub the offer, do not even offer an alternative.
“The majority of our people have never truly supported our musicians – they only offer moral support.
“Having managed Mukanya for 12 years, I have learned a great deal about the local music industry. Traveling abroad with the band and collaborating with top international names has shown me a starkly different reality.
“When it comes to supporting local artists, our people are consistently found wanting. Whenever we released new music, these so-called ‘number one’ fans were the first to ask for free CDs.
“Even after giving one away, someone would easily return and say, ‘my uncle took that CD, please give me another.’ When I urged them to buy one to support the band, they would hesitate.
“Yet, if that same person supports an EPL team, they would not think twice about spending US$80 or more on a replica jersey but parting with US$5 for their favourite artist’s CD is a tall order.
“Overseas, it is a different story. I offered free CDs to promoters after shows, and they would refuse, insisting on paying to support the band.
“In terms of revenue, the bulk of Mukanya’s income comes from outside Zimbabwe, with countries like Japan contributing significantly. Those are his real supporters,” said Chiromo.
He reiterated that those pushing Mukanya to snub Chivayo’s offer have let the musician down for decades.
“These people have always been around and I can tell you that the vast majority, over 95 percent, fall into that ‘Moral Support Crew’ category. Most never bought CDs; they always asked for free copies.
“I gave many of them our entire music catalogue for free, bearing in mind that while they got them for nothing, we paid for them.
“When it came to live shows, the same people would brag, “at Mukanya’s show, I don’t pay; I get in for free.”
“This happened at shows where the band relied on gate takings and the venue owner relied on bar sales. Instead of buying a ticket, they would spend their money at the bar, effectively promoting the venue owner rather than the band.
“Today, some of these same individuals are printing unauthorised Thomas Mapfumo T-shirts without proper consultation.
“For certain images they use, I signed agreements with the photographers, yet these people violate those standing agreements without even obtaining Mukanya’s consent.
“They also run unauthorised social media platforms in Mukanya’s name, which have become hubs for sharing free music.
“As for the businesspeople among them, it is worth noting that in their own commercial dealings, they never vet their clients along party, tribal, or any other arbitrary lines – yet they expect Mukanya to do exactly that.
“In my view, the majority are neither sincere friends nor genuine fans.
“A few years ago, Mukanya’s home in Domboshava was destroyed by fire and Mr Lance Guma ran a fundraising campaign to assist in rebuilding the home. Less than US$1,000 was raised after more than a month. Food for thought.”
Chiromo agrees with those who believe the offer from Chivayo is the best opportunity for Mukanya as he brings the curtain down on an illustrious career.
“Our previous biggest business transaction was US$300,000, and this offer from Mr Chivayo will undoubtedly surpass that, making it the largest deal for the Thomas Mapfumo brand.
“It would certainly serve as a befitting way for him to bid farewell to his true fans.
“If anything, this offer, whether Mukanya accepts it or not, proves that Mr Chivayo is a very genuine fan, one who might well take the crown as Mukanya’s number one supporter.
“Thousands have claimed that title over the years, yet most found it difficult to part with US$5 for an original CD. This man is prepared to part with a fortune for Mukanya’s performance. That speaks volumes.”
Chiromo believes Mukanya deserves a big money farewell for his contribution to Zimbabwe music.
“This is an artist who has raised the nation’s flag high in countless countries and headlined numerous international music festivals.
“Of note, at the Sierra Nevada Festival, major acts like Maxi Priest opened for Mukanya and in Birmingham, Alabama, the late, great Percy Sledge did the same.
“Such recognition from global music icons is among the highest forms of appreciation for Mukanya’s immense contribution to the music industry.
“The figures being offered reflect Mr Chivayo’s deep and fitting appreciation of Mukanya’s legacy and his enduring impact on Zimbabwean music.”
Vava, who once worked as Mukanya’s publicist, took to his Facebook page to urge the musician to take up the offer.
“I’ve taken note of Wicknell Chivayo’s offer to the legendary Thomas Mapfumo should he be invited to perform at the anticipated wedding of Jah Prayzah.
“My two cents: Mukanya should come and perform as a gesture of support to the younger generation of musicians who are carrying Zimbabwean music forward. Jah Prayzah has earned his place as a legend in his own right.
“Together with Winky D, he has risen above many of his peers through consistency, influence and longevity.
“As for Mukanya, I believe he should accept Wicknell Chivayo’s offer if indeed he is invited to perform at the anticipated wedding or for the Chivayos.
“Whether one agrees with Chivayo or not, this particular gesture appears to be an appreciation of Thomas Mapfumo’s immense contribution to Zimbabwean music. He may not be my favourite public figure, but I genuinely believe he is a passionate admirer of Chimurenga music.”
Vava believes the issue should not be politicised.
“Music has always had the power to unite people beyond political affiliation. During my time as Publicist for Mukanya, especially when we organised the Big Bira, I interacted with people from across the political divide, including senior ZANU PF figures who would come simply because they appreciated the legend and his music.
“That experience reinforced my belief that Chimurenga music transcends politics.
“I’m no longer working with Mukanya, but if asked for my opinion, I would say Mudhara ngaatore bag because, unlike previous offers, it appears to come without political conditions attached.
“I know some people won’t agree with me but this is my personal opinion.”
