Will D’Banj deliver?

Problem Masau Arts Correspondent
NIGERIAN pop star D’Banj (pictured), Ugandan Babe Cool alongside Zimbabwean artistes Winky D, Guspy Warrior and King Shady will clash at the popular Lion Lager Summer Beer Festival slated for October 26 in what organisers have dubbed “Battle of Africa”.
Patricia Murambinda, Delta Beverages marketing manager, said D’banj, born Dapo Daniel Oyebanj, will represent West Africa while Babe Cool whose real name is Moses Ssali will be representing East Africa and local artistes will be holding it down for Southern Africa.
There have been mixed feelings over D’Banj as most people think he is more of a “studio artiste” although what they don’t know is that the “Oliver Twist” singer is one of the most sought-after artistes in Nigeria.

D’Banj or Kokomaster is a high-profile artiste but most Zimbabweans only know one or two of his songs.
The question that most people are asking is: “Will he deliver?”

Early this year, the Nigerian thrilled fans at the closing ceremony of Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa with his acrobatic dance moves. He gave one of the best performances at the ceremony.

Will he repeat the same feat when he performs at Glamis Stadium on October 26?
However, another Nigerian group, P-Square, left the crowd begging for more. They gave a performance that remains one of the best acts by a foreign group in the country.

Zimbabwean artistes Winky D, Guspy Warrior and King Shady have already promised to give their best.
Winky D who has become a staple at the annual beer festival, said fans should expect “satisfaction”, when he takes to the stage.
“I want to warn my Nigerian brother that I do not do clashes but as an intelligent artiste I am prepared to learn one or two things from him and he should also be prepared to learn a thing from me,” he said.

Winky D has in the past upstaged visiting international artistes. Last year, Popcaan literally curtain-raised for him when he gave a blast of a performance at the Harare International Conference Centre.

The beauty about the gig is that all the local aristes are on top of their game, with Guspy Warrior riding high with the song “Ita Seunononga”, while King Shady’s “Machira Chete” is gaining ground.

Guspy Warrior, who is a first timer at the Beer Festival, said he would love to leave a lasting impression.
“I would like to thank my fans who are called Mafia 19 and everyone knows that ‘Ita Seunononga’ is the national anthem. I do not want to talk much, but what I can say is that I will give all my best,” he said.

Son to gospel musician Machanic Manyeruke, Guspy Warrior said he was grateful to the organisers for giving him the opportunity to showcase his talent. Even controversial King Shady has promised a show to remember.

“Representing Makorokoza PaMusau, I feel honoured to perform at such a grand stage and I want to show people that I have come a long way,” he said.

With all the local acts promising to give it their all, the task is now on the international artistes to prove that they are worthy their salt.
Will they deliver come October 26? Only time will tell.