Online Reporter
Trust Khosa-Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Leonard Zhakata may be keeping a low profile, but his loyal fans will do anything to cheer him up.
Known for saying less and delivering big on stage, Zhakata hardly disappoints in front of an audience, which he treats like a CEO’s office, where serious business matters are discussed.
He has been delivering performances to perfection, thanks to the support he receives from his fans. The legions of his fans, famous for donning regalia emblazoned with
“Zora Cadres” hardly disappoint with their swagger, which makes them unique.
Last Friday, he showcased his true colours at The Yard Restaurant (formerly Bar Rouge), nestled in the heart of LongCheng Plaza in Harare, where he delivered a vintage performance. Backed by the superb Zimbabwe All Stars, Zhakata ushered merrymakers into a bright weekend of song and dance with a well-choreographed act. He made his job easier by belting out sing-along tracks, including “Mukadzi Mushingi,” “Nhamo Dzenyika,” “Gomba Remarara,” “Mugove” and “Sakunatsa,” among others.
Fans were seen showering him with cash on a night when he reminded everyone that he still had the stamina to perform for years to come.
Like the proverbial wine that gets finer with age, Zhakata danced like a teenager and played his guitar with absolute finesse.
His piercing vocals left many in awe, as he was simply at the top of his game.
“This is the old Zhakata we know,” a reveller in the packed venue could be heard saying.
“This show is worth the US$10 we paid,” noted another reveller. The media-shy Zhakata was also touched by the fans’ loyalty.
“It’s encouraging when fans show their loyalty to us, which gives us the confidence to do more,” he shared in an interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub.
“There are regular faces that attend our shows, and most of them have been following us wherever we perform.
“This is a testament that our music is touching the hearts of many people. As an artiste and composer, it has always been my wish to create music that has meaning, as is the case right now.” Zhakata informed this publication that he takes the stage seriously.
“I am someone who takes the stage seriously, and this has fuelled my desire to continue performing well,” chuckled the phenomenal vocalist. “Fans pay to watch our shows, and it would be unfair to disappoint them because they trust us.
“I do hold rehearsals with the team, and some of the workouts are more demanding than a show.”
The revered lyricist firmly believes that God’s grace has taken him to great heights.
“I might be in my late 50s and rocking like a teenager, which is ample proof of God’s grace. When I reflect on my career, I sometimes shed a tear because of where I came from and where I am now, doing what I love the most.”
Zhakata, who has been in the industry for over three decades, has vowed to continue serving both the industry and the Lord.
“I simply love my job as a musician, and I will continue singing for my fans as long as my voice and body permit me to do so,” he said.
