By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
Organisers of this year’s 21st February Movement Celebrations Gala have promised a stellar line-up of performers that features some of Zimbabwe’s most talented artistes.
The gala, scheduled for Chipinge Primary School on March 3, is aimed at celebrating the life and person of President Mugabe, who turns 88 today.
Some of the big names expected to grace the music gala include Alick “Extrabasso” Macheso, Nicholas “Madzibaba” Zakaria, Mbare Chimurenga Choir, Jah Prayzah, Peter Moyo, Freddy “Kapfupi” Manjalima and Sulumani Chimbetu.
And featuring for the first time at the gala will be Winky D aka “Ninja President” and Blessing Shumba, Jusa Mupostori while gospel lovers can expect to see Mercy Mutsvene. Like most galas, the 21st February Movement celebrations will be aired live on ZBCTV.
Extrabasso is one of the most popular faces at national galas and his presence brings high energy performances on stage as he connects well with his fans. The “Makandidana” singer backed by his Orchestra Mberikwazvo is likely to bring the curtain down on the marathon music extravaganza that is expected to start and end on a high note.
“Madzibaba” or simply the “Senior Lecturer” to his adoring fans has a long list of songs which are expected to delight the fans while Kapfupi is expected to show up with his wife — Mai Nga — in tow.
Youths who will attend the gala will be more than happy to dance with the “Ninja President” who will be performing in the town for the first time is as many years.
Now backed by a live band, Winky D has raised the bar in Zimbabwean dancehall, although his longevity in the game is not guaranteed as there are a host of other upcoming talents the likes of Jiggaz and Spider, who will also feature at the gala.
