Artistes who
performed at the late Simon Chimbetu’s virtual commemoration concert held on
NashTV over the weekend did not disappoint as they took turns to prove their
prowess in singing Chimbetu’s songs.
Chimbetu, who was affectionately known by his legion of
fans as Chopper, died on August 14, 2005 and 16 years after his death, the
legacy still lives on and is still popular with merrymakers on the national
showbiz calendar.
The show saw artistes such as sungura ace and father figure
in the Chimbetu family, Alick Macheso, man-of-the-moment Rockford “Roki”
Josphat, Jah Signal, Pitshou Lumiere, Diana Samkange and Jean Masters, among
others, performing.
The event, which ran under the theme “The Music Lives”, was
based on the late musician’s rich compositions. The show, which was hosted by
radio personality Tafadzwa Shugeta, attracted about 5 000 viewers.
Opening the act was songstress Jean Masters joined by
Sulumani “Sulu” Chimbetu. They did a rendition of “Samatenga” as Sulumani did
his signature ululation.
Well, Sulu was joining each and every artiste to bring the
Dendera feel, each time they performed. South Africa-based Zimbabwean singer
Nox Guni, paid tribute to the late singer as he shared his story and song he
liked about Simon Chimbetu.
“I used to like the song ‘Ndiwe Chete’,” he said as he sang
the chorus. Jazz and mbira singer Diana
Samkange sang “Nzungu Muchoto” paving way for rhumba musician Pitshou Lumiere.
Sulu later had an interview with Dj Shugeta and shared his
Dendera journey and life story before taking the centre stage with his dancers
donning in yellow shirts. He was then joined by Roki.
Pastor Charles Charamba brought the gospel feel as he put
up a scintillating performance while performing “Mai vaJulie” the dendera vibe
proving his versatility.
Sungura maestro Alick Macheso also had a chat with the host
during which he said he learnt a lot from Simon Chimbetu.
“I have learnt a lot and I am using the acquired knowledge
in my career. I remember each time I attended some of his shows, he would
recognise me,” he said.
Speaking to The Herald Arts, Chimbetu’s son Sulu said they
were doing their best to keep the brand intact.
“As you can see, our work speaks for itself. The band that
we inherited from my father was at the helm of Zimbabwean music for several
years. This year’s commemorations which fell in the heroes’ month, we can say
was a bit special. We have so many lessons we learnt,” he said.
Sulu’s manager Carlton Mparutsa said everything went
according to plan. “We are so pleased with the outcome of this year’s
commemoration concert. It was a success. Everything went according to plan,” he
said.
“When we came up with the idea to invite other artistes, it
instantly meant that we had challenged ourselves to set the bar even higher from
the previous editions, for that we want to express our humblest, thanks and
gratitude to the guest artistes and sponsors who committed themselves to the
event, making the concept a dream come true.”
He said the late Chimbetu’s music knows no boundaries and
that was the whole idea behind this year’s show.
“Simon sang for the people, he inspired and is still
inspiring generations. We are indeed satisfied with the results,” he said.
Herald
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