Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu [email protected]
WINTER may be tightening its grip on Bulawayo, but music lovers have another reason to embrace the season after organisers of the inaugural Imbawula Experience unveiled a vibrant line-up of performers set to light up the city on Saturday.
Inspired by the warmth, unity and social connection traditionally associated with the imbawula, the event will bring together live music, fashion, food and creative expression in a celebration of Bulawayo’s thriving arts scene.
The inaugural edition boasts an eclectic line-up featuring fast-rising 3-step singer Liora Music, alongside Noluntu J, MC Fresh, KBrizzy, Da_Kudu, Indigo Saint, Crazy Dee and Feel G.
The event is the brainchild of artiste manager, event promoter and hip-hop advocate Michelle Banda, popularly known as Star Michy, in partnership with musician Noluntu J. Together, they aim to establish a distinctive winter gathering that blends entertainment and culture while creating a space where people can connect through music, fashion and food.
With temperatures continuing to fall across the country, organisers believe the timing is perfect for an event that celebrates both the winter season and Bulawayo’s flourishing creative community.
For one of the featured performers, Liora Music, the occasion represents a significant milestone as she prepares to make her live performance debut. The emerging singer, who has been attracting attention within the growing 3-step movement, said audiences can expect a memorable first appearance.
“I’m ready for my debut performance. People should expect fireworks. I’ll also be unveiling a brand-new song for the very first time. I’m excited to share this special moment with everyone attending the Imbawula Experience. I can’t wait to connect with music lovers and give them a performance they’ll remember,” she said.
Star Michy said she was delighted with the calibre of artistes assembled for the inaugural edition, adding that preparations were now at an advanced stage.
“We’re excited about the line-up because it represents the diversity and richness of Bulawayo’s creative talent. We’ve brought together artistes with different sounds and styles so that everyone who attends will find something to enjoy.
“Preparations have been going on very well, and everything is now at an advanced stage. We’re looking forward to delivering an unforgettable experience that people will want to see become an annual winter tradition,” she said.
Beyond the entertainment, the event draws inspiration from a long-standing African tradition. For generations, the imbawula has served as a gathering place where families and communities shared stories, passed down wisdom and celebrated their cultural heritage through music, dance and conversation.
The Imbawula Experience seeks to reimagine that tradition for a contemporary audience, using modern music, fashion and artistic expression as today’s forms of storytelling and cultural engagement.
Should the inaugural edition prove successful, organisers hope it will evolve into one of Bulawayo’s signature annual winter festivals, providing a platform for local talent while strengthening the city’s reputation as a hub of artistic creativity.
— @MbuleloMpofu
