The weather in Chiredzi was hot, with temperatures shooting up to 42° on Sunday, the day Mark Ngwazi, the upcoming Harare based Sungura musician arrived in Chiredzi.
By Costain Shamu
This was his first time to set his feet in the music loving town. The soaring heat never deterred the Lowveld fans, who for the first time wanted to see the young musician.
Apart from the heat, the timing of the show was also awkward with fans, most of them who are workers. Again, the gate fee was a bit higher, with fans foking out US$5, up from US$3 that most musicians used to charge before the Lockdown.
The three huddles however never stopped Ngwazi to do what he knows best and the fans went electric as soon as Ngwazi was on stage.
Considering that he is the first musician to come down to the sugar town after the partial liftment of lockdown, a fair crowd filled the popular Chigarapasi beerhall.
Ngwazi never disappointed the fans. Four hours of non stop live perfomance and lip singing was enough for fans to ask for another date of the next show.
Many fans were however disappointed as they left out the show in the middle, going home to prepare for Monday duties.
The Njanja Express band, some of them dressing like Hosiah Chipanga and Freddy ‘Kapfupi’ Majalima during the show, pumped up a high perfomance that left the crowd asking for more.
Positive comments came from fans.
“He is a great upcoming artist. I enjoyed the show. Surely he will reach higher levels if he keeps up the good work,” said a fan who preferred to be addressed as Mike.
Some fans complained on the day the Show was held, a Sunday, the day all those who go for work consider reserved.
Talent Shumba, who works for Tongaat Hullet bemoaned the timing of the event, on his way out from the venue before the knockdown.
“I wanted to enjoy the rest of the show but unfortunately tomorrow is a working day and I have to get an early rest”, said Shumba.
Other fans complained about the poor stage management which was evident by the way the fans occupied the platform.
When Lowveld checkpoint contacted Ngwazi for a comment after the show, the artist said despite the hot weather, he enjoyed the day.
He revealed that the date for his perfomance was already arranged and had to fulfill it after a similar perfomance at Checheche on the previous day(Saturday).
“Although the temperatures were unbearable, I enjoyed the show and the reception I got from Chiredzi fans.
“Yesterday we were at Checheche and this show was already set up for Sunday. I however look forward to work with this community again.” said Ngwazi.
The organiser of the show, Five Muchehiwa promised to keep the entertainment ball rolling in Chiredzi as he is planning to bring down Aleck Macheso this festive season.
“If all goes well, I am planning to bring Macheso soon.” Muchehiwa said.
