admin
Jonathan Mbiriyamveka Entertainment Reporter
Oliver Mtukudzi, Suluman Chimbetu, Jah Prayzah and Alick Macheso are billed to perform at Glamis Stadium on November 1 in a gig dubbed “Zim’s Finest”. Organised by River Clear Promotions in conjunction with ZimCafe Restaurant, the gig is expected to set the tone for this year’s festive season as it brings together some of the biggest names in Zimbabwean music.
Mtukudzi or simply Tuku to his fans has done collaborations with both Suluman and Jah Prayzah which means the “Watitsvata” singer will fit well on two different sets.
Tuku, who turned 61 on September 22, is one of the greatest composers, arrangers and performers to emerge from Zimbabwe. However, it is his humility which has assured his longevity in music. Unlike some musicians who when they hit the big time become untouchables Tuku remains level headed. He doesn’t let fame get into his head.
This is perhaps the lesson he imparts to the youthful musicians Sulu and Jah Prayzah. The Norton-based singer has taken Sulu and Jah Prayzah as his own sons, musically that is. So when he takes to the stage it will be like a family reunion.
On the other hand, Sulu is basking in the glory of his newly found fame since the release of “Syllabus” which features Jah Prayzah on “Sean Timba”. Musically, Sulu is no longer riding on his late father’s coat tails. He is his own man with gold-selling albums.
“Syllabus” has set Sulu apart from other dendera musicians simply because most people identify with the songs.
While Sulu remains a favourite of many, Jah Prayzah is coming up in a big way.
He has taken his brand to another level and he is one youngster to watch out for. Jah Prayzah is the sort of musician who does not belong to a particular genre and it is difficult to pigeon hole his music. However, what is known about him is that he plays music that moves revellers.
The latest “Tsviriyo” DVD album has put him in the spotlight again as he single-handedly brought all the big names on the same platform. He brought together Tuku, Pastor Charles Charamba, Sulu, Freddy “Kapfupi” Manjalima, Winky D and Alick Macheso on “Tsviriyo”, a feat which other musicians are still to achieve.
Last but not least is Macheso who is called “Baba Sharo” after his daughter or simply “Extrabasso” to his ardent followers.
Extrabasso works magic on stage and most of his shows are different in that he always brings an element of surprise. It is not easy to be able to the guitar especially the bass and lead a band as well as dance all at once.
But surprisingly, Extrabasso is one artiste who does everything with much ease. He has plenty of hits to enjoy. However, the “Madhawu” singer always keeps himself on solid ground. His music appeals to the young and old because he sings about everyday life.
From “Charakupa” and “Mai Rubi” to “Makandidana” and “Shedia” he talks about everyday struggles affecting ordinary Zimbabweans.
Isaac “F&B guru” Neshamba, one of the organisers, confirmed the gig saying preparations were on course.
“There is going to be lots of entertainment at the gig. It’s probably one of the best gigs to been seen so far this year as it features the best in Zimbabwean music. The Glamis Stadium is a spacious venue and for that reason we are going to have the VVIP section, the VIP and the rest of the ground,” Neshamba said.
Online Reporter