Fun-filled weekend lives to expectations
HARARE revellers had a memorable weekend as the capital was saturated with high-profile events.
Topping the bill was the well-attended Summer Festival at Alexandra Park where Jah Prayzah and Feli Nandi were the top acts.
Alick Macheso performed at Blue Ridge Restaurant & Pub, along Mutoko Road.
A passionate performer he is, Macheso hardly disappoints wherever he performs.
He spent the weekend performing alongside Selmor Mtukudzi in Harare and Chivhu.
Chimurenga music heir apparent, Kurai Makore, celebrated his 36th birthday in style at Steakhouse Pub & Grill, Waterfalls.
He ushered out all his artistic verve as he gave revellers real value for their money.
A tried and tested crowd puller, Makore returned the favour as he belted out his uncle Thomas Mapfumo’s timeless classics.
Makore also played his compositions, much to the delight of revellers.
Rhumba outfit Bana Ngwasuma warmed the stage for Makore with a vintage performance as the opening act.
Ashton “Mbeu” Nyahora had a good day in office.
Mbeu, who hails from Guruve, said it was an honour performing at Makore’s birthday.
“It was quite an honour performing here because we all come from Guruve.
“It was more than a reunion of Guruve boys at this show.
“I am happy that fans showed us true love by attending this birthday party,” he said.
Diana “Mangwenya” Samkange delivered a flawless act at Makore’s birthday.
The mbira player, who treats the stage like the CEO’s office where serious business is done, blessed Makore’s birthday party with a memorable show. The talented spiritualist was in her usual best belting sing-along tracks like “Torovera Mudzimu Dzoka,” ‘Pasi Paita Mhanda” and “Gungwa Ndiyerese among others.
“I take every performance seriously because that’s where our bread comes from.
“I can afford to short-change fans who always sacrifice a lot to be with us.
“Some have left their beloved ones at home to be with us here and that alone should challenge us,” she said.
The birthday boy, who was the closing act of the night, was humbled by the huge attendance.
“To be honest I wasn’t expecting this big crowd tonight considering that it’s mid-month.
“To make matters worse, some fans are yet to recover from the back-to-school blues.
I was also humbled by the support I got from fellow musicians who came to celebrate with me. It clearly shows the power of unity among fans,” he said.
Makore believes unity is needed for the growth of the industry.
“Our industry can only grow if people are united.
“Unity is needed for the growth of the sector. This is the gospel we preached here tonight,” he added.
The sound and lighting were superb. He also mounted a state-of-the-art stage, befitting the high-profile birthday bash.
His band complemented him from start to finish with a polished performance.
It was indeed a memorable night where unity conquered while love was shared among musicians.
Across town at Alliance Francaise, Clive “Mono” Mukundu, defined the popular Friday the 13th myth with a sold-out gig.
He was also launching an updated autobiography of himself.
A talented researcher, Mukundu has been documenting his history in the form of written books.
Some of the popular faces that attended the event included Tendai Mavengeni, Fab Ovation, Maizoni, Tina Watyoka, Mbende Band, Hofi Band, Tatenda Mhangami, Ambuji Spencer and Monoful-Praise.
He also reconnected with old friends such as Fungisai Zvakavapano, Dudu Manhenga, Jonah Chivasa, Dereck Mpofu, Josh Meck, Elijah Madzikatire, Albert Nyathi, and Hope Masike.
Media personalities Themba Mkanda, Iyati, and Plot Mhako graced the event.
The big attendance and big names that grace the event were enough proof that Mukundu gets well along with others.