Canadian based Zimbabwean music promoter and musician Tinos Taurai Viriri recently scooped Promoter of the Year Award at an event held in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Viriri, who was popularly known as Slicey T during his days with the pioneering urban grooves outfit -Slice International, said he is happy for the recognition.
“I feel honoured to be recognised this way. The award is not just for me but every Zimbabwean who has worked with me in Canada and other Africans who supported my initiatives. We have been consistently bringing musicians from Africa to perform live shows in Canada and giving them the much-needed exposure,” he said.
As a musician, Slicey T said, he felt encouraged to work with other musicians for the betterment of African music.
“It’s not about making money but also promoting the artistes so that they are exposed to international standards. It has always been my wish to develop the Zimbabwean music industry since my days with the famed pioneer group Slice.
“I have not only been a singer but also a DJ and now I’m into showbiz here in Canada where I present radio and television shows as well as promote young artistes and record quality music. I believe this was lacking when I was still starting out,” Slicey T said.
He said he was now using his knowledge and skill he acquired from his studies abroad to benefit and uplift fellow Zimbabweans.
“My message to aspiring youths with similar prospects is don’t get in showbiz for the sack of riches, do it for the love of it.
“Showbiz is a complicated industry where you deal with a lot of uncertanties and frustrations. As for me I want to be remembered as a Zimbabwean entertainment mogul,” he said.
Through the Slice International and African Canadian Arts Society, Slicey T has so far promoted artistes in the mould of Bojo Mujo, DJ Cleo and Biblos from South Africa as well as Zimbabweans namely Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi, Winky D and Nox Guni.
Apparently, the “Ndinonyara” hitmaker is billed to perform in Toronto on December 20 before he heads to Edmonton on December 21 and then rounds up his tour on December 22 in Ottawa. The Herald
