Dumisani Magalane aka DJ Yugoe

Kudzai Mpangi, Sunday Life Reporter
THERE is no doubt that Zimbabwe has been producing the best of DJ’s over the years. However, most DJs have remained apprehended in their surroundings due to local promoter’s’ appetite to support South African Disc Jockeys.

Well, only a few have managed to keep their relevance both at home and global. Individuals such as DJ Tamuka and DJ Starvo have scaled the ranks of DJs not only in the country but the whole of the SADC region.

However, one of Plumtree celebrated DJs has become a global sensation with a high demand. DJ Yugoe, born Dumisani Magalane in Plumtree is a club or party DJ signed under Toundtainment. He began his career in 2010 playing at High School parties then later took it professional.

Being a small town DJ did not intimidate him from becoming an international sensation, rather it made him aim for the stars.

“Growing up I followed stories of DJ Fresh and Oskido who started from humble beginnings to where they are today. It taught me that no matter where you are from you can achieve anything in life. As I grew up I used to look for gigs in different towns, it was difficult because whenever I said im from Plumtree the mood and attitude of whoever I approached would change,” Magalane said.

“I have since grown from just being a small town DJ to being an international brand. I recently played in Dubai and I will be going back soon. I have gigs lined up in South Africa, the gigs keep rolling in and I keep getting called by people I look up to and it’s all falling into place,” he said.

Magalane has managed to graft with most of Zimbabwean, South African, Botswana and Dubai top DJs who have contributed to his success story.

“I have managed to play alongside with Black Motion one of the most anticipated duo in South Africa. In 2017 I headlined the Kalawa Homecoming annual gig in Bulawayo which to me was a peak to my career as a DJ who has come out of the clutches of a small town,” he said.

DJ Yugoe is also working on music production and expanding his brand from not only being a DJ but producer as well. -@kayskudzai

Sinikiwe Moyo

Limpret Moyo, Sunday Life Reporter
MULTI-award winning Sinikiwe Moyo based in the UK recently bagged a Fashion for Africa Designer of the year 2017 gong in a colourful London fashion week event.

She said the London Fashion week awards were organised by Fashion’s Finest which is an established independent trade event showcasing hand selected emerging and established designers each season, from the UK and oversees during London Fashion Week.

“Fashion’s Finest shows are renowned for discovering new talent and giving opportunities to those that would not normally be able to afford to participate at London Fashion Week, but it attracts press and fashionistas from around the world who want to see the new trends that are being developed by the designers that Fashion’s Finest feature,” she said.

As a teenager, making her own clothes was a natural progression and her design flair was confirmed when she raced ahead of other pupils at school when studying craftwork and Fashion and Fabrics.

This drive and motivation led her to take a number of supplementary roles, helping her to formalise her education industry and leading to initially securing a professional National Certificate in Clothing Technology. This led to her getting a place at the National School of Art & Design, where she graduated from a National Diploma In Fashion Design and authored her first formal “Portfolio”.

Moyo, who holds a degree in Fashion Designs consistent excellence has led her into winning multi awards in her fashion career. She said fashion has always been her dream.

“I initially showed a flair for fashion and design at a tender age and would create new outfits for my dolls helped by my mother, who was a great lover and supporter of the regional Arts and Craft movement at the time,” she said.

Moyo who has since founded her own fashion brand called Startup Brand said she is looking into working with African fashion factories for mass production of her merchandise.

“I believe there is hope in Zimbabwe especially as we try to rebuild a new Zimbabwe. Africa has got so much to offer and amazing talent regardless of challenges in resources. Having grown up in Zimbabwe and understanding the challenges and experiences I personally went through in my journey to pursue my fashion career.

“My dream is to work with young up-and-coming African fashion students or aspiring designers who may be disadvantaged or underprivileged to help them with skills, knowledge and provide resources in the future that may encourage and empower them to bring out the best in them.

“As they say, if you educate a girl, you’ve educated a community, that’s my vision to give back to the community that raised me. There’s so much talent that is being stunted by the stumbling blocks young Africans come across in their individual circumstances,” added Moyo.

Hi Sis Noe
I AM trying to break up with my girlfriend but she is needy and possessive. She is a single mother and I love her son but I can’t stand her anymore. When I try to end things she causes a scene. — Bored.

Reply
Breaking up is definitely hard to do, and not just if you are the one clinging on to the shattered dreams of unity and harmony. Calling a halt to a loving union for fun may be a sport favoured by a small cluster of sadists but for most of us, hurting another person, particularly one you once loved, is really difficult to do. A spurned lover will look for any glimmer of hope, so you need to be emphatic while showing empathy for their vulnerability. There is no need to be cruel or point out seeming inadequacies in your soon-to-be-ex-lover. Such outbursts only aggravate the situation.

The only advice I can give you is to try to quiet the voices that are focused on your girlfriend’s failings and extricate yourself with good grace, kindness and a commitment to remaining a small part of her child’s future life. We all know how painful rejection can be, so softening the blow and summoning all our best qualities, rather than unleashing our worst, in a break serves both parties far better. Sail forth, by all means, but with conviction, loving kindness and in hope of future friendship. Life is long and leaving victims scattered in your wake rather than gathering friends is the fool’s way forward.

Hi Sis Noe
I am always fighting with my husband of 10 years. We fight about everything and we never seem to agree on anything. I am thinking of leaving him. There is no passion left anymore. — Help.

Reply
Instead of heading for the door what about trying to disrupt the status quo? You claim opposing interests, but I would describe them simply as individual pursuits that only become a point of contention if you try to force them on each other. Instead, welcome your development as individuals as a bonus to your life together, take holidays alone or with friends when you can’t find mutually acceptable locations, indulge your hobbies and when you meet in the bedroom you may find your passion revitalised.

Like all relationships there will be much that could be improved on and new issues to resolve. I don’t want to burden you with onerous responsibility but if you and your husband can find a way of communicating more constructively there is hope for your marriage. We must be the change we want to see and the qualities that will improve your relationship – including compromise, commitment and empathy – must be embedded in you. Otherwise if your issues are really toxic then leaving is an option.

Hi Sis Noe
I have been married for 20 years but my wife is a problem not a solution. She does not like anything that I do and she does not approve of my job because it involves travelling. I have endured abuse for the sake of our children who are twins but now they have grown up and I am thinking of leaving her. — Help.

Reply
I’m not a “no divorce no matter what” person and I don’t often advise the opposite either. Twenty years of marriage and two kids is quite a feat but that doesn’t mean that you don’t have the right, the reasons and the impetus to leave. I am not making light of your dilemma, but instead illustrating what a good thing you have had and why you have every right to at least ponder your options before you reach for the door handle. Obviously I’m not going to side with you on the reasons for your disgruntlement.

Your gripes will be as subjective as every aggrieved lover’s complaint list. Nevertheless, what you feel is as important as what is real in such circumstances, and you clearly consider yourself to be much put upon. Before you make any rash decisions it’s also a good idea to consider the opposite point of view. Don’t leave because you are fed up or feeling sorry for yourself. Leave because you have come to a point where you judge happiness to lie outside rather than within your home. I can’t tell you to stay, or give you permission to leave; I can only encourage you to think long and hard about your next move.

Hi Sis Noe
A friend of mine who I last saw a long time ago told me that my wife used to sleep around a lot. He says she was so wild at college that almost every man slept with her. Now I don’t trust her because she told me that she only slept with a few men before she met me. — Worried.

Reply
You have had a happy marriage and that makes you a lucky man. Your wife, like all of us, is of course the sum of her past, but all that adds up to making her the person you fell in love with. She has admitted she enjoyed some nights of passion with a few men — who wouldn’t take such an opportunity when young, free and single? What more do you want from her in atonement?

It’s not for you to judge or condone, accept or rage against; it’s just what was. So why have you allowed this friend, who clearly has his own agenda, to let his tale come between you? To me this so called friend has an agenda. What possible reason could he have for his revelations, and why does he feel he can insult your wife without you reacting? There is plenty of garbage in all our lives that is inexplicable even to ourselves, and when a third party gets involved, demanding logical answers, we tend to flounder about, digging ourselves deeper and deeper into the sand. Your wife will never be able to satisfactorily explain to you why she embraced a lifestyle you struggle to understand – and nor should she have to.

The solution is not to judge or dwell on what happened, but to accept your wife for the woman she is now, not the experiences that shaped her along the way. If you ditch anyone, I suggest it be your so-called friend.

Audius Mtawarira

Rumbidzai Mbewe, Sunday Life Correspondent
TAUGHT by his father to play the guitar, he ventured into the music scene at high school where he sang and played drums. His musical journey in the entertainment industry then began in 2002 after releasing his debut album titled Audius. The album featured hit song If only you knew that had over 41 000 views on YouTube.

The soft spoken Audius Mtawarira stole every girl’s heart with his looks, sweet voice and lyrics that brought you closer to your loved ones. His music has been appreciated a lot not only in Zimbabwe but internationally and has produced songs for renowned artists such as Ludacris and Flo-rida.

He is one of the founders of the urban grooves and continues to be the best when it comes to songs that deal with matters of the heart. Audius, however, had been quiet for some time as he felt that it was not yet the right time for him to produce any songs.

The awards-winning singer and song writer said he was now ready to release new songs after a long time. He said he had a lot of new music ready to be released that he was working on when he was not visible in the entertainment circles.

“I have a lot of new music but I did hold back a little bit because I felt with releasing, you have to release in the right environment. I felt like my music was not going with what people were playing at the time,” he said.

Audius said the Zim Dancehall era made him take a step back as at that time many people in the country were interested in this particular type of music. He said now that the fire had died a little bit as far as Zim dancehall is concerned, he is ready to release his music.

“There was a lot of hype on dancehall music in the country that you would rarely hear people listening to any other kind of music. Zim dancehall had taken over the entertainment industry, that made other genres invisible,” he said.

When Audius was missing in action, he had not completely forgotten his fans but he kept on working on new music that is scheduled to be released this year. He said, he had a lot of content that he did not even know which one to release first.

“I am very happy that I took my time to release new music because it gave me time to work on my new offerings. There is a lot to give out but at the moment I don’t know where to begin but my fans should be assured that I will be giving them something this year,” he said.

Unfortunately, to all those who prefer to go his live shows, the artistes said he won’t be doing any live shows. He said if there would be any changes they will be announced in due course.— @rumbie_mbewe

Betty Makaya

Bhekumuzi Ncube, Sunday Life Reporter
ONE of Zimbabwe’s first-rate female vocalists with a salient voice that shook and dominated the music industry yesteryear, Betty Makaya, no longer seems to be that “red-hot” property in the music industry despite dropping a hot video recently.

When Betty`s name is mentioned, one`s memory is thrown back to the 2000s, when Soul and Urban Groove music were hottest genres that made people crack the dance floor, just like ‘Zim’ Dancehall today.

It was that time when galas were not to miss music fiestas that featured the likes of X-tra Large, Roki, Mafrik and Makaya who were among people`s favourates as they managed to keep fans on the urge.

Last year, she announced her return to the studio after taking a long break. Well, she recently dropped a hot video of the song titled Complicated, available on the most used social media platform, Youtube.

The track talks about someone who is dedicated on loving somebody he or she adores despite the difficulties and complications that unfold in the relationship as no one is perfect. The video features the ever-beautiful Makaya and a man who plays the role of Betty`s “sweetheart”.

Despite the song being so well organised and Makaya proving yet again it will take time to find another songbird like her, the new track hasn’t been given the attention that anybody will expect for Betty’s songs.

Makaya`s songs attracted all corners of the country for instance her scintillating classic hit Kurwizi featuring the late singer Jamal which beyond doubt remains Betty`s standout projects that drove fans ‘berserk’.

The ‘dope’ and a flawless track has been deservedly compared with Celine Dion`s Titanic Movie soundtrack, My Heart Will Go On while others compared it with Whitney Houston`s Will Always Love You which are perhaps are one of the greatest love hits to be ever produced by female sensations during their time.

Besides Kurwizi, the songbird has many projects that hogged limelight when they were dropped which include Usipo and Ndakusuwa hits that are still being played by some fans today, and have earned her place in the music hall of fame in Zimbabwe.

Perhaps fans have not given Complicated video much attention as they are focused the country`s current superstars that includes the likes of Winky D, Jah Prayzah, Ammara Brown and Souljah Love. For instance, currently the trending video in Zimbabwean music is Jah Prayzah`s Angelo featuring Jah Cure which has already garnered over 200 000 views in less than two weeks.

It`s like Makaya, who has that honeyed voice that soothes a broken heart as well as strengthen weak relationships no longer exist. Could it be that Zimbabweans have heard enough of the queen of soul music?

That question cannot be justified since the likes of Oliver ‘Tuku’ Mtukudzi continue to shine in the country and across Africa despite turning 65 years old last year. People continue to love the Neria hit maker and is still booked to perform in various big concerts.

So to think fans are no longer giving Betty the attention because fans are tired of her music will be completely wrong. Maybe her relocation to South Africa is what distanced her from fans who gradually have gotten over the Ndakusuwa hit maker or could it be the fact that Zimbabweans are now interested in Dancehall and Hip hop genres, the leading genres in entertainment circles in Zimbabwe currently?-@NcubeBhekumuzi

Stunner and Olinda

Bhekumuzi Ncube, Sunday Life Reporter
IF Zimbabwean rapper, Stunner is aiming to win songbird Ammara Brown’s heart with his charms and “magic”, fans might have ruined “his moves” by bringing in the rapper’s controversial relationship and break-up with Olinda Chapel when a video of him and Ammara was shared online last week.

The smoking hot five-minute video was posted on the eve of Ammara and Stunner’s performance in the United Kingdom where they were joined by other Zimbabwean superstars that included the likes of Tocky Vibes and the Nhema hit maker, ExQ.

In the video, the “charmer boy”, Stunner is seen amusingly twisting his body as he dances in a seductive manner while imitating Ammara’s topping chart hit, Akiliz which was playing in the background.

Stunner can be heard singing “you seduce me with your body” and hilariously says he wishes to be “Akiliz” the man or character responsible for seducing and using Ammara in the song. The rapper might have humorously said that, but they are people who have jokingly confessed their feelings in unthinkable ways.

The Akarowa Mari hit maker then starts chatting with Ammara for a moment about a pending project he wishes to work on, Ammara promises to help before he disappears from the video.

Ammara quickly clears any “wrong” assumptions among viewers by explaining that she and Stunner are not in any duet or anything else despite sharing the stage at a concert which was dubbed Zim Connect.

The Mukoko hit maker also announced her upcoming performance in the neighbouring country, Zambia where she will be sharing the stage with Nigerian singer, Oluwatosin Oluwole Ajibade better known by his stage name Mr Eazi who has hits like Ghetto Children and Privacy.

“Stunner and I are not in any collaboration but will be sharing the stage with other Zimbabwean artistes. Before I forget good people, I will be performing in Zambia soon where I will join Nigerian singer, Mr Eazi,” she said.

Despite Ammara making it crystal clear that she and Stunner were together in UK to raise the Zimbabwean flag high, a section of Zimbabwean fans were quick to alert Ammara about “playboy” Stunner’s antics.

Many of them commented based on Stunner’s controversial relationship with rapper Tytan’s fiancé, Olinda Chapel that had a nasty break-up.

Stunner was married to Olinda for almost year and last year, the two had a horrid break-up as Chapel accused Stunner of cheating on her several times and cited that Stunner married her for money, not for love.

However, the two might have worked on their differences with time as they were reportedly spotted together at the Zim Connect 18 concert in the UK.

A fan named Emmanuel Masetera on Youtube asked if Stunner was now rich and economically balanced since Olinda had said Stunner was penniless a year ago.

“Has Stunner bought a bag which Olinda Chapel said he didn’t have,” he said.

Others described Stunner as a demon who doesn’t choose who to sleep with but sleeps with everyone. A section of fans said they feared for Ammara being trapped in the clutches of Stunner who had failed to take good care of Chapel.

However, there were fans who supported Stunner arguing that Ammara is beautiful than a “much old Olinda” who they called a “chembere” a Shona word meaning an old person. They stated that Ammara will make a perfect match for the controversial rapper.

Hip-hop star Tytan’s name was dragged in, with a fan saying he felt pity for “poor” Tytan who was involved with Olinda.

It’s not a ridiculous assumption that fans were quick to assume Stunner might be trying his luck on Andy Brown’s most successful child as the Vavengi hit maker has been involved with beautiful women for instance the curvaceous Pokello who controversially dumped the rapper live on television a few years back while taking part in Big Brother South Africa.

Mai Margaret Mwamuka nee Kaliyat

Kudzai Mpangi, Sunday Life Reporter
BEING raised by Christian parents passionate about music has influenced ZAOGA Music Ministry Director for Bulawayo and Plumtree, Mai Margaret Mwamuka nee Kaliyat to drop a top notch debut album titled Highly Lifted Up.

Consisting of 10 scintillating hits that perhaps will dominate gospel charts, Mai Mwamuka said she was in the music industry to bring change not money.

“I am not in music to make money but to minister and have the worship experience accessible to all across the economic divide. I believe God is able to fund his work through those whom he has blessed more financially and those with equipment who understand what the presence of God can accomplish for an individual, a community, a city and a nation. They then invest in this vision for eternal rewards through lives saved and impacted as well as harvest of seed sown here on earth,” she said.

“However, money is critical for every industry but the greater challenge for music industry in Zimbabwe is we have not yet fully matured in our love and commitment to music to be pursuing musical events, but I believe as the economy is improving, our people will have more disposable income to support artistes through properly buying music and not cheap pirates,” she said.

Mai Mwamuka said she has worked in countless arts projects that involved renowned gospel artistes, and is still undone.

“In my entrusted position as ZAOGA Music Ministry Director for Bulawayo & Plumtree I have organised and overseen a number of musical programmes, concerts, festivals, bashes over the years that have hosted different music groups and personalities such as Vocal Ex, Minister Takesure Zamar, Pastor Haisa, Lorraine Stot Maplanka, Minister Tino, Minister Mum Bongie Moyo, worship teams from within ZAOGA congregations, PAOZ, AFM to mention a few. This is only the beginning. I believe God still has more to bring to the body of Christ and I desire and long to be part of it,” she said.

The album received $2 300 on the day of the official launch.

Albert Mavunga

Bhekumuzi Ncube, Sunday Life Reporter
IT was an exuberant night in Bulawayo’s arts industry as Next Level Media organisation in collaboration with Gorealr Music and Certified Music officially opened two music studios in a lucrative ceremony that saw local artistes joining forces with Jamaican and Ghanaian artistes recently.

The picturesque ceremony saw invited guests being given a chance to tour the studios which were named Redemption Record Studios as well as photography and film studio located at Africa House.

Director of Next Level Media, Albert Mavunga said he was ecstatic that people came to witness world class productions by young producers from backgrounds that were in contrast with the type of music they make.

“I think these types of launches give artistes and the producers a chance to interact with people they make music for as well as give them a platform to receive constructive criticism. It also helps us to show that Bulawayo’s creative sector is very much alive. I am very humbled by the support people have shown by attending the event. Next Level is still growing and determined to discover hidden talents and help the Bulawayo arts industry thrive,” he said.

The launch of the two studios was followed by the dropping of five brand new singles from various local artistes who featured Jamaican and Ghanaian superstars.

Murphy Cubic of Gorealr Music was the first to deliver his two tracks titled My Way featuring Jamaican artiste Verti and Anything, a track featuring Kyn Citi from Ghana.

The talented Murphy alluded that the singles were the foundation of his next level that will propel him to an astonishing career. Larynx of Certified Music Records dropped his power song Celebration where he featured some artistes from Bulawayo who have been working with him over the years namely Luminous, Cray and CMK.

Amazing duo Vusumuzi aka Mavutete and Samuel aka Sam Eureka dropped two electric hits that surely will attract people across the country.

Their first offering is titled S’gemshana which is a hard knocking trap song that talks about having a good time in the “ghetto” despite all the troubles faced. The second hit which is a house banger, is titled Ngenze Njani which talks about a married man who is having marital problems and is seeking advice from the elders. Mavunga said since Next Level was founded, various artistes have approached them with proposals of working together.

“The launch has been a success as it has met our expectations. More artistes have been coming to us for recording deals and partnership contracts. All dropped singles will be available for online download and we hope they will make it in the local charts,” he said.

It seems like nothing is stopping Next Level as on the night it was announced the organisation had partnered with various arts groups namely Dumisa Music group and voices of Angels Gospel group. Next Level will be responsible for marketing the groups’ albums as well as helping them record their new projects.

Hi Sis Noe
I GOT married at 40 after a life time of sex and adventure. I did everything you can think of but I married a woman who is conservative when it comes to sex. At first it was not an issue but now it is because I want to enjoy sex with her. She does not initiate sex and she is not that active during sex. — Help.

Reply
So, before your marriage, you knew that she was conservative but you chose to marry her? It would be useful now to consider why you chose her in the first place and why only now it has become unbearably difficult. I imagine many things besides sex initially drew you to her, perhaps a sense of safety.

Perhaps your private sexual adventures, desires and behaviour have been troubling to you over the years? Some people who feel that they are at odds with societal norms seek a psychological refuge by marrying someone who is aligned with the part of them that can resist unwanted urges. They feel calm and self-controlled with someone who is not driven by, for example, the need to sleep with many partners. Your wife is clearly uninterested in acting like a porn star; in fact, she has somehow come to believe that she is devoid of proficiency when it comes to any kind of sex. You cannot change her to the extent that she would match you in libido or style. Learn to accept your own desires and let go of trying to alter hers. Instead of comparing her with more exciting, sexually confident partners you might have previously had, consider exploring her idiosyncratic sexual or sensual needs.

Support her, accept who she is and, if she allows it, learn to pleasure her in subtle, gentle ways. Try to bolster her confidence, celebrate the differences between you and focus on the things you appreciate about her. This is not as difficult as you think. In time, she may surprise you.

Hi Sis Noe
I am not experienced when it comes to sex and this is affecting my relationship with my boyfriend. Our sex life is poor and boring because of me and as a result we are frustrated and we fight a lot. — Worried.

Reply
You are far too judgemental — and mainly of yourself. If you remain focused on being good in bed, or trying to prove anything at all, you will never enjoy sex as you deserve, or please your partner. Sexual confidence makes you attractive to others, but paradoxically, the best way to achieve that is to let go of expectations or goals regarding sex and simply allow yourself to have fun. Bring the qualities you enjoy in each other generally, into your lovemaking sessions. Laugh, and truly relax together. You might well consider putting a self-imposed ban on sex for a while, in favour of simple playfulness. It’s important to bridge the gap between the positive connection and regard you have for each other in non-sexual situations, and the stressful atmosphere you jointly create during your attempts at eroticism. There is nothing erotic about facing a lover with the cold fear of not measuring up. Instead, simply allow yourselves to give and receive pure pleasure, and tell each other exactly what you would like; that is the basis of thrilling, stress-free intimacy.

Hi Sis Noe
I used to have good sex with my girlfriend but now things have changed. She does not want sex, she says she is always tired and sex is not a priority.

She says she loves me a lot and that she needs more time to feel more deeply passionate. I am finding it frustrating, and feel neglected and misled because in her past relationships she was not like this. — Frustrated.

Reply
People often enter relationships for reasons that do not include sex, or where sex is a low priority. You are receiving many clear signs that she is drawn to you for different reasons, but you seem to be finding it hard to accept this. Instead, you are framing it in the following light: “Lots of people before me had great regular sex with her — why not me? What’s wrong with me? Why is she even with me?” But a plethora of partners in a person’s past does not mean the sex was always good, or even consistent. Perhaps she finds it difficult to maintain interest with anyone at all because she is indeed stressed, anxious or depressed. You need to know her better. Talk to her about her feelings and share yours, without blame. Ask what you could do to make sex more exciting for her. She may have chosen you because she feels safe with you, which could indicate a complex psychological issue, but if sex is a high priority for you and not at all for her, consider moving on.

Hi Sis Noe
I am 38 years old and I am failing to maintain an erection during sex. I have been to doctors and done tests and nothing wrong was found in me. When I am masturbating I maintain an erection but during sex my organ softens. — Help.

Reply
Your mind may be playing tricks on you. Such a well-entrenched pattern of erectile failure can start as an occasional inability to maintain erection, but become a self-fulfilling prophecy, when your anxiety about it actually becomes a large part of the cause. So, during lovemaking, instead of enjoying feelings of love, pleasure and sensuality, you may be imbued with performance anxiety, which seriously hampers your natural arousal responses. Have you tried some of the erectile dysfunction medications, which can be physiologically useful and help build confidence? There can certainly be treatable psychological reasons for consistent erectile failure. But the best approach at this point is to immediately stop trying to maintain an erection and focus on the giving and receiving of pleasure without intercourse. It is vital for you to re-frame sex as something relaxing and sensually pleasing rather than a goal or chore. Take time to fully explore all the non-penetrative things you both enjoy, and have fun experimenting. Only return to intercourse when your confidence has come back — and even then think of penetration as a side attraction rather than the main event.

SOULMATES
I’m Zenzo aged 34, looking for a soul mate to marry. I don’t care whether HIV-positive or not. I am negative.

I am a 27-year-old woman, HIV-negative looking for a man to date. I am from Bulawayo but I work in Gwanda.

I am a 25-year-old man. I need a woman to date aged from 20-23. I am in Bulawayo, please connect me with a serious woman who really want to.

I am a guy aged 30 looking for a single lady between 20 and 25. I am from Gweru.

I am a lady aged 30 with one kid. I need to settle down, never been married. I am a Christian hence I need a faithful Christian man who is aged 34-38.

I am a 43-year-old professional mother of two looking for a single guy from 40 to 50 who wants a committed relationship, must be prepared to go for HIV tests.

I am a lady aged 39, looking for a soul mate aged 43-45 who is on ART. I have four kids. The man should be from Bulawayo.

I am a 44-year-old widow with two kids. I am in the civil service, looking for a male friend who is financially sound aged between 46 and above.

I am a 25-year-old HIV-positive woman based in Harare. I want to date a man of the same status who is also based in Harare or surrounding areas.

I am a single lady aged 40 looking for a single man who is ready for marriage.

I am a man aged 45, looking for a lady to love.

I am a 50-year-old woman, I need your help. I want a good man, steady, serious, aged 49 to 59.

I am a lady aged 32, HIV-negative with three kids. I am looking for a serious man who is between the ages of 35 to 42 with his own kids too. I want a man who is God-fearing, and who works because I am a civil servant.

I’m looking for professional man who stays in Bulawayo who wants a serious relationship that will lead to marriage. He should be aged 30 and above.

I am 28-year-old man in a wheelchair and I need a woman aged 25 to 30 to date.

Ngileminyaka engu-36, ngidinga olothando owesifazana abakoBulawayo and surrounding areas ngingubaba ohlala yedwa. Singakhuluma ku-app or call kuyonale i-number.

I am a mother of one, may you please connect me with a mature guy who needs a serious relationship between the ages of 29 and 32. I am 27 and HIV- negative in Bulawayo.

I am a man who is aged 33, looking for a cute lady with or without a child aged 20 to 26.

I am a 26-year-old beautiful woman based in Harare. I am HIV-positive and I need a man who is also positive or a negative, one who does not mind my status.

Ngileminyaka engu-40. I am a Seventh Day Adventist, mother of one boy aged 9. I am looking for a man willing to love me. I am single, ngihlala eMpopoma. Ngidinga indoda aged 45 to 48 esingahlalisana ozimiseleyo ngoba lami ngizimisele kakhulu.

Mothusi Bashimane Ndlovu aka Madlela

Bhekumuzi Ncube, Sunday Life Reporter
RHUMBA music expert, Madlela Sikhobokhobo, who stormed the industry when he dropped a foot-stopping hit titled Ngamnanka has dismissed any chances of him following Lovemore Majaivana who broke Zimbabweans’ hearts when he relocated to the United States of America years ago.

Majaivana, a legend who along the likes of Bhundu Boys, Oliver Mtukudzi, Thomas Mapfumo and Albert Nyathi pioneered Zimbabwean music to the rest of the world while rubbishing haters’ whoever ridiculously thought the country had no incredible talent capable of being on top of the world.
Majaivana was a darling in the country as he drove fans wild with his memorable hits like Salanini, Okwabanye, Isizungu, Inkomo, Mary and Kulelilizwe that refuse to diminish in contemporary Zimbabwe.

They continue being played by a section of Majaivana’s diehard fans who remain adamant to believe that Majaivana will never sing again or set his feet in Zimbabwe.

However, they remain faithful that the Kulelilizwe hit maker will someday make a grand return to his motherland; a land that nurtured and made him star. It’s their dream to witness Magee’s high-pitched voice strike across the music industry one more time.

It’s disturbing that Majee’s successes and popularity made him turn his back on Zimbabwe instead of staying around or relocate to the US and visit frequently.

Despite his relatives in Zimbabwe stating they were still in touch with Magee, the muso seems to be far from returning home.

If Majaivana never sets foot in Zimbabwe again, the US would have truly robbed the country of its splendid gem, treasure and icon that will forever be celebrated by fans.

Award winning star, Madlela said unlike Majaivana who left the country despite being loved by home fans, he will never leave Zimbabwe as long as fans appreciate what he offers.

“In life you can expect anything but not leaving my motherland for good. Home is best. My home fans are the reasons I have become a well-known figure. They support me so much. Why would I decide to leave them for a foreign land? However, I wish Majaivana returns home and continue sharing his talent to fans who still adore him. It would be nice to share the stage and collaborate with Majaivana,” he said.

After a successful debut album which saw him hog the limelight in 2017, Madlela said he is working on projects that are set to be debuted in August; a time when the festive season hits are dropped making it clear that the Rhumba sensation wants to end the year on a high note once again.

“I will continue giving fans my best. Every artiste wants to please his or her followers. I will be sharing brand new hits in August this year,” he added.

As the Bulawayo Arts Awards approaches and fans wait patiently for the announcement of nominees, the “Axeman” will be hoping to hog the limelight yet again. — @NcubeBhekumuzi

Mukudzeiishe Madzivire

Bhekumuzi Ncube, Sunday Life Reporter
DREAMS come true for young-talented Muku!!

The 13-year-old musician, Mukudzeiishe “Muku” Madzivire is set to raise the Zimbabwean flag as he bravely prepares to partake in the World Championship of Performing Arts in Hollywood, United States of America from 1 to 15 July.

Muku will be part of Team Zimbabwe 2018 under the Zimbabwe Championships of Performing Arts (Zicopa) banner who will aim for gold at the world championships.

A Form Two pupil at Christian Brothers College in Bulawayo who is also a pianist, poet, model and vocalist, Muku could not hide his excitement for being selected to represent the country.

“Being selected to participate in this prestigious competition, referred to as the “Olympics of Performing Arts” is a fantastic opportunity to interact with people of different backgrounds. It is also an amazing opportunity to get noticed by scouts from many different academies and conservatories who will be present at the competition. I have always loved music ever since I can remember and getting an opportunity to represent my country is such an honour for me,” he said.

In a bid to make the dream a success, Muku has decided to be entrepreneurial and become actively involved in fundraising for his trip, and is daring corporates to match, double or treble whatever he fundraises himself.

“I hope that through my music I can inspire a nation. I came up with a concert by myself last week appealing for corporates to come on board to assist me in my endeavours,” he said.

Muku has always been passionate about music, a passion he discovered while attending junior school at Masiyephambili where he won the Musician of the Year Award for three consecutive years.

In 2015, he was awarded a scholarship by the Zimbabwe Academy of Music supported by the British Council lasting three school terms to undertake a study of two instruments of choice (of which he chose piano and trumpet) as well as a choice between vocals and music theory (of which he chose vocals, and later, taught himself music theory).

In 2016, he played the trumpet with the Zimbabwe Academy of Music Brass Band at the official opening of the Sandvik Centre/ Zimbabwe Academy of Music Prize Giving Ceremony. He was also awarded the Junior Pianist of the Year Award at the Zimbabwe Academy of Music Awards. @NcubeBhekumuzi

Nkosana Mazibisa

Kudzai Mpangi, Sunday Life Reporter
IN a move set to revolutionise the local arts industry, Zimbabwean businessman Nkosana Mazibisa is set to launch the first Internet youth radio station dedicated to the youth in the Sadc region on 15 March.

The radio station will be launched in five countries namely Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, South Africa and Swaziland will be accessible via Mobile App, Website, Shout out cast and Tune in.

Following the endless struggles by local youths to break into and reach markets across the borders, Mazibisa who is passionate about the arts felt that creating a platform which transcended the limited reach of traditional radio broadcast signals was the next best initiative in the development of the arts industry.

“We want to expose local talent to become the Sadc talent so that there won’t be a need for Zimbabwean artistes to take music to South Africa for it to be aired as South African citizens will hear the music from local station,” Mazibisa said.

In an effort to make the radio station a reality the 19.0 FM CEO, Mazibisa has taken an initiative in working with some of the renowned radio presenters who include former Skyz Metro FM breakfast show presenter Khayelihle Moyo popularly known as Kya Drastiq who will run the drive time show together with Teejay Twaambo Chingobe from Zambia, a former Zambezi FM presenter.

Asked why he decided to make such a huge move that will benefit not only Zimbabwe as a whole but the Sadc region, Mazibisa said he wanted an initiative that would reach a global audience.

“We ventured into Internet radio because it is not controlled by any legislation in terms of where it can reach. Making it possible to reach a global audience target being the Sadc region for now,” he said.

The station is set to open jobs for presenters and give airplay to artistes to enable them to have an income.

“This project will change the broadcasting space and disrupt the traditional broadcasting industry as we are looking forward to getting revenue from the advertising industry from all the targeted countries especially churches, NGOs and business industry especially among youth businesses,” he said.

The radio station has so far managed to mobilise enterprising young people in Zimbabwe including motivational speaker Njabulo Moyo and Marshal Chiza who will be running a motivational show on the radio.

Ntandoyenkosi “Van” Moyo

Kudzai Mpangi, Sunday Life Reporter
UMAHLEKISA Comedy Club, which has startlingly grown from a backyard comedy to being the biggest comedy club in the country, is set for a hitting five-year celebration of the art stand-up comedy and free speech at The Vista on 9 March.

Comedy lovers will be treated to a five-star performance from The God Father of Zim Comedy, Edgar Langeveldt alongside award-winning comedians Mandla Da Comedian, Clive Chigubu and Ntando Van Moyo as well as a host of unheralded Bulawayo’s comedians.

“We are honoured to be hosting one of the greatest stand-up comedians in the country, Edgar Langeveldt, the man who helped pursue my vision as a comedian. Through his humility I have learnt how to remain relevant through changes and he has helped us as a club in what we have become,” Moyo said.

Being the first well established comedy club in the City of Kings, the club’s director, Moyo said they have grown immensely and they have managed to achieve their set goals.

“We have since managed to create a consistent comedy platform which has brought comedians and comedy lovers together, not only in Bulawayo but the whole of Zimbabwe,” Moyo said.

“In 2017, we managed to see some of our comedians tour the world and some like Long John established themselves abroad and Mandla Da Comedian got brand endorsements,” he shared.

Moyo acknowledged that they have had challenges along the way which they wish to get over with.

“We have faced challenges in getting the audience come through in bigger numbers which has been a problem for the past five years and as a club we would love to have a sold out show to keep the great work going,” he said.

“Starting this month we will be moving into the Harare domain and hosting international acts for our fans. We are also hoping to have our local comedy hitting the television screens soon,” he said.

Umahlekisa was founded by award-winning Moyo in 2013 and is a project that has done fairly well considering that it’s self-sustained.

Leonard Phiri with Thulani Mbambo after clininching Namas in Harare last month

Ngqwele Dube, Leisure Correspondent
AFTER bagging an award for best theatre actor at the 2018 National Arts Merits Awards (Namas)last weekend, Leonard Phiri’s next focus is on getting more television acting roles.

Phiri also known as Mporodo or Maria has been traversing the stage for the past 23 years and winning this year’s Nama gave him the time to reflect on his career.

Mporodo won for his role in Umkhathi Theatre’s historical play, Ihloka where he had dual roles of an inyanga and Governor.

Mporodo said the award was long time coming and he was confident that this year was his to dazzle when he was announced among the nominees.

“When I was on stage during Ihloka, there was this exuberance I felt and even the response that I got from the other actors and also the crowd was an indication I was doing the right thing, it gave me confidence. I also fell in love with the characters because of the way the play was written and the language used in the play.

“Being named among the nominees gave me self-assurance that I will land the award,” he said, adding it is his first major award in his acting career.

Mporodo has built himself as a character who brings in “funny” into his acting, ensuring he leaves the audience in stitches.

“That is a technique that I have built over the years and it has worked wonders. I enter the stage with comic actions and that usually warms up the audience and brings them to my side.

“It’s something that I have used to win over audiences and catch their attention. This will make them follow whatever I do next on stage,” he said.

The 40-year-old actor said he would now be focusing on more TV roles and hopes the Government’s digitalisation programme will see a boom in the film industry although he won’t dump theatre.

Mporodo’s first taste of the arts was at Mtshede Primary School in Njube suburb, where he did his primary education before proceeding to Njube High School where he cemented his role in the arts joining the school’s culture club.

Growing up in Njube, it was hard for Maria to ignore the arts as he stayed a stone’s throw away from Salukazi Art Centre housed arts groups such as the now defunct Young Warriors, Sadalala and later Umkhathi Theatre.

At secondary school, he was identified by Iluba Elimnyama, who took him under their wings with Patrick Mabhena moulding his acting craft before he moved to Amakhosi.

Phiri cemented his acting skills at Umkhathi but as the outfit concentrated more on traditional dance; he joined Bambelela Arts, as his strength lies in acting.

He has featured in plays such as “Somkhence”, the first black opera produced by Amakhosi in 1995, which told the story of the disappearance of King Lobengula in music with no dialogue.

Mporodo also featured in remake of “Nansi Lendoda”, “Overthrown” both by Amakhosi, “Soil of the Son” and “Warrior” by Umkhathi, “Naked Truth”, “Look, Listen and Decide” and “Civil Servant” (Bambelela) while in film he has featured in “Umtshana Wami” and “Ezabo Mkhakha” (2016).

“Naked Truth” by Bambelela gave prominence to Phiri’s acting skills with the stage play receiving three NAMA nominations in 2005.

Phiri said while he has received the award the craft has not been financially rewarding but they have held on for the passion of the arts adding he is always hopeful the situation will change for the better in the near future.

“It has been a struggle all these years but we have held on. Pay has been low and in some instances I have struggled to get my dues.

“I recently featured in Ezabo Mkhakha, a ZBC series but the State broadcaster is yet to pay us for the work that I did and it is really frustrating. The payment has been coming in drips and drabs and we are required to collect it in Harare.

“I’m hoping things at the State broadcaster change, but I am hopeful things will change for better soon,” he said.

Mporodo said theatre has positively evolved over the years with the sector becoming more professional.

He recalled when they started they would travel in public transport carrying equipment such as African drums going to perform but now that is a thing of the past.

Mporodo feels theatre should retrace its roots back to the western areas where it had a huge audience as ensembles traversed community halls.

“Maybe it’s the time but I feel we should go back to the halls in the western suburbs, maybe the audience has changed and it’s not there but I think we can rekindle that interest in the high density suburbs,” he said.

Pictures of the suspected cellphone thieves were stuck outside Club 263

Bhekumuzi Ncube, Sunday Life Reporter
CLUB 263 nightclub in Bulawayo has named and shamed nine alleged thugs accused of stealing cellphones from customers having a blissful time in the club.

Posters captioned “Banned from This Club” with the alleged swindlers’ faces are attached at the main entrance of the club, making it easy for the security and customers to identify them, if they attempt to sneak in.

The popular nightspot’s director, Biggie Chinoperekwei, said the club acted professionally and didn’t use physical force or violence to treat them when they were caught.

“Some of them were caught red-handed but they were not beaten up or treated badly. We only took them pictures to be publicised as a way of alerting our valued customers and the security. With their faces easily viewed at the entrance, it will make it hard for the thieves to attempt sneaking in as they might face the wrath of angry customers.

“This move will give courage to customers who might be scared to lose their expensive cellphones as they will know the club has put on a strategy to prevent hooligans from being part of the club. The club is doing everything to achieve the level of protection needed by customers,” he said.

He said it was difficult to get the alleged thieves’ real names but the police were working on the issue.

“The club is working with the police to help identify all of them. Alerting the police and the public will facilitate them being caught if they attempt to steal in other places,” he said.

The vibrant club which has branches outside Bulawayo will seek a court order to ban the suspected thieves for good when their real names have been revealed. — @NcubeBhekumuzi

Oscar Utete aka Orthodox Six

Bhekumuzi Ncube, Sunday Life Reporter
HIP-HOP star Oscar Utete aka Orthodox Six has created a clothing brand named Kingsville Clothing Supply that has been appreciated across Bulawayo.

The clothing brand is a proudly Bulawayo street wear that mainly focuses on premium quality apparel which consists of 3D, embroided snapbacks, curved brim 3D, embroided baseball caps, 3D embroided fitted caps, 3D embroided beanies for the winter season, raglan baseball t-shirts, crew-necks, hoodies and Kingsville coffee mugs.

The brand has received major support from Bulawayo and beyond. Top artistes from Harare and Bulawayo have been spotted rocking in Kingsville Clothing brand such as Lady K, Tehn Diamond, Centre Party, Take Five, Outspoken, Cal_Vin, Mzoe7, DJ Liz, Rizla, Poy, Thorne, Prozac and DJ Mzoe.

Orthodox Six, known for his scintillating hits such as Street Child, Rebel with a Cause, Where Am From and his blockbuster record Sweet November which was turned into a short film aired on DStv Africa Magic Channel said the brand has been well received by Bulawayo residents.

“People love the originality of the brand. Hip-hop caps and shirts are driving people wild. So far the reception from fans has been astonishing and beyond expectation. I am looking forward to thousands of Bulawayo residents purchasing the best designed clothes from my brand. The likes of Albert Nyathi, Cal_Vin and Sandra Ndebele have lauded the clothing brand. They have bought some of the products.

“The brand is doing very well and soon will be opening a Kingsville Clothing Boutique in Bulawayo CBD. The goal has always been to take pride in our own local branded clothing. The Kingsville Clothing’s motto is ‘‘Royalty through the ages’’. In the new Zimbabwe under the leadership of President Emerson Mnangagwa, we are hopeful that the brand will reach all the corners of Zimbabwe. For orders and purchases people can come direct to our place of business which is at 112 Corner Street Robert Mugabe and 12th Avenue. People can also find us on social media. Our Facebook account is Kingsville Clothing Supply,” he said.

Orthodox Six said he enjoyed his days as a rapper but was mainly focused on his new adventure in fashion now.

“Being an artiste and performing in front of people is incredible. However, I am no longer keen to produce music. I want to first focus on the fashion brand, make sure that it grows and continues to deliver products that will be liked by the majority,” he said.

The Sweet November hit maker added that being a fashionista has always been a dream and it was high time he fulfilled that dream.-@NcubeBhekumuzi

Nhlalwenhle Ncube

IT has always been said that when you fall in love with someone and get married, you are left with no option but to love all his family members including dogs and cats!

It has proved not to be an easy thing to do and if not handled carefully you find some people having to divorce their partners because of sour relations they have with other family members, especially their spouse’s parents.

Some have suffered heartbreaks, not that they were disappointed by their partners, but the hurtful in-laws who choose to make the ‘‘new’’ family member’s life to be hell on earth. This does not only apply to women only, but even men have had the same challenges especially when they are not that much financially stable.

You find out that no matter how hard one tries, he/she always gets negative comments and even when they go an extra mile in just trying to please the family, nothing changes.

The heart then closes them out and when that happens it gets to affect the marriage. Unfortunately when all this is happening, the other party is always positive that one day things will get to be fine as only a few can sacrifice their family relations for a partner.

It then begins to strain the relationship and when it has taken away your happiness, walking out becomes the only option.

I have always believed in what Shakespeare said thousands of years ago as his advice still holds today: “Don’t try to remake yourself into the person your in-laws want.” In every family there are different characters, so the minute you try to change, you will be sacrificing your happiness and you will never be able to meet everyone’s expectations. At the end of the day you will find yourself with different names in the family as you will be referred to as a chameleon and a person without principles.

I have realised that those who have won the battle with their in-laws are those ones who never changed their characters and only stuck to what they believed in. After many years, that becomes a compliment. As long as you have good habits, no need to change, but they are the ones who are supposed to adapt and reform.

The thing is that a tense relationship with in-laws is a tense relationship. Only you know the reality of your feelings. Even when you tell your partner, he/she is bound not to understand. While your spouse can work as a diplomat to smooth things over between you, he or she can’t dictate how your in-laws’ actions or words make you feel.

If your in-laws hate you or you just don’t feel that close to them or there is lingering bad blood from arguments from now and again, never give up on your marriage, but keeping them at arm’s length could be the best thing to do.

The biggest challenge when it comes to having a good relationship with in-laws is creating it, because the relationship you have already established with your significant other, who is their child, gets in the way.

That’s because from an in-law’s perspective, there are things that need to be challenged. Yes, that means your in-laws are testing you. And you feel it.

From a parent-in-law’s perspective, they must ask questions such as, “Will this person love and support and care for my son or daughter in the right way? Will my own status in the family be threatened or will my relationship with my own child have to change?” With such questions, some in-laws get to lose it, generally becoming bitter.

So the relationship suddenly feels like a competition and any chance of a healthy relationship with your in-laws can feel doomed. But by knowing this, you can turn it around before it heads south. Getting your relationship with your in-laws to a healthy place requires knowing (and acknowledging), that all in-law relationships are rooted in competition.

It then becomes your job to turn competition into collaboration if you don’t want to hate your in-laws. You should then become honest and show interest in learning who your in-laws are and what you can learn from them, the most important thing you can do to keep your relationship with them in line is to establish boundaries.

As it turns out, in-laws don’t need to feel included on everything as long as they don’t feel excluded from anything. Keep in mind that a parent’s biggest fear is exclusion from a valued relationship with his or her child. Sometimes people who feel under threat behave badly, so the best approach is to offer reassurance of continuing connection in the context of setting boundaries.

Not everyone is going to look forward to interacting with in-laws, but the hope is that you never have to dread it. So if encouraging closeness and seeking opportunities to bond is not your thing, the least you can do is not make it worse. Anyway, it is impossible to ignore your in-laws’ wishes and needs completely and at the same time making your partner choose between you and his parents!

It is better to create boundaries for the hateful in-laws and never allow them to break your relationship and take away your happiness. As long as you are in good books with that one person who matters most in your life then the rest come second and they should know that they will never win the battle.

WhatsApp your comments to 0712978471.

Kaycee the Gigmaster (on the right)

Allan Foti, Sunday Life Correspondent
FOR 29 years he has touched literally hundreds of thousands of lives as a club and radio DJ. He is a 49-year-old dynamo on a turntable and he knows it!

His name is Kaycee the Gigmaster now simply known as “Tha Godfather”. Born Kennedy Masawi in Kadoma but brought up in Harare, Tha Godfather started DJ’ing in 1989. Back then, Tha Godfather was a house and techno DJ doing loads of trickery on the decks after learning the craft from a disco machine that was dumped at a friend’s house when he was still at Cranborne Boys High School.

After a while Tha Godfather then known as Kaycee the Hithouse, discovered soul, rap and funk and gradually began to specialise in the genres although the rave scene had started to grow. As he got more used to the soul and funk sound, he liked what he heard and considered the music was uplifting, energetic and everyone into the music seemed so happy, which is what house used to have. At that point Tha Godfather made the decision to switch over to play what is now known as Old Skul.

Tha Godfather cut his teeth while playing afternoon sessions at Brats Nite Club where he started playing in 1989 after being spotted by legendary Tommy Dutch who saw a touch of class in the young DJ. Tommy Dutch moved with his protégé to Rumours Nite Club where Tha Godfather came into his own and began his slow rise to prominence.

“I think I have been a DJ all my life. I’m not sure when exactly the love for music first hit me, but I remember collecting music from as early as 1983 using my pocket money to buy vynls and collecting music. When someone dumped their disco machine at a friend’s house, I began messing around and gradually began DJ’ing,” Tha Godfather shared with Sunday Life.

“After a while my friend and I began playing at birthday parties and other such events turning me into a bit of a neighbourhood celeb at the time,” he chuckles.

These early forays onto the entertainment scene would also become a catalyst and meeting point between him and fellow celebrity DJ, Tich Mataz that would blossom into a lifetime friendship.

“One day we gatecrashed a party in my hood and found that Tich Mataz who had been hired to provide the sound system and play at the party was late.

We rushed home, picked up our disco machine and began playing. By the time he arrived we had already warmed up the crowd and he just took over without even connecting his sound system. From that day Tich and I became close friends and today we are like brothers,” revealed Kaycee.

In his formative years, the Old Skul godfather also played alongside the likes of Norman Marata aka BJ, the late Jabulani Sibanda aka Jabs, Anderson Thembani Hadebe aka Andy (also late) and Munyaradzi Chipudla aka Candy Man. They played sometimes at 3 clubs on a single night starting at Mr C’s which was run by Cedric Steele who had a sound system called Black Giant.

Tha Godfather confirmed his arrival on the entertainment scene by being part of several shows featuring international artistes including the legendary Soul to Soul International.

In 1992, his hard work paid off when he was approached by popular hotelier and club manager Tammy Msimanga to play at the then very popular Kadoma Ranche Motel. He was to stay there even after Msimanga left to open Stars Studio at the then Sheraton Hotel (now Rainbow Towers) and later became resident DJ and entertainment co-ordinator until 1997 when he moved to manage a club called Enigma in the capital.

His partnership with Msimanga was renewed when the latter again “poached” him and gave him a job as resident DJ at Sports Diner which was then owned by Innscor Africa.

Later on he was to move to Bulawayo where he became an instant hit playing at top clubs like Windermere, Visions, Hustlers, Savanah and Sneakies, making a name for himself as a crowd puller and competent entertainment guru.

Over the years, Tha Godfather has continued to grow in stature and now headlines an Old Skul line up that also includes Tich Mataz, Otis “Tha Flow” Fraser, Kudzi “Mr. Cool’ Marudza, Tendai “Sweet Thing” Chakanyuka and Kelvin “The Soul Supreme” Sifelani. The crew has a very popular slot at Solomon’s Lifestyle Café in Glen View every Sunday and despite being veterans of the game, have not shown signs of slowing down.

Prophet Chiza

Loveness Mpofu, Sunday News Reporter
IN a bid to kick start national choral competitions, Eagle Life Church Assembly held its inaugural choral competitions last Sunday, which saw church departments competing against each other.

Church sections comprising of the ushering, youth choir, Kingdom women (married women), Royal family (single parents), Hosting team, Teenagers, Cleaning department, Sunday School teachers among others battled each other for a first prize.

Experienced adjudicators were invited from the Methodist Church and the Salvation Army, who judged choirs according to best choir conductor, best attire, well disciplined choir and main section of vocals.

Kingdom women triumphed in the vocals category walking away with a trophy and

R1 000 cash prize followed by Ushering while Hosting Team was third and took home R500 and R300 respectively.

The ushering team however, outshined the rest, winning the other categories.

In the best choir conductor and well dressed categories the Hosting team choir conductor was the first runner up while Teenagers came second in the well disciplined section.

Prophet Blessing Chiza said the choral competition was a stepping stone for his greater vision to establish national choral competitions, which will see different churches competing against each other.

“My vision is to host Bulawayo choral competitions to sponsor all churches and it’s all coming from love. We want to set a platform for choirs from different denominations to come in and showcase their skills of singing,” he said.

“We also encourage other churches to take up such things because there will be powerful competitions in Bulawayo, as we intend to promote that spirit and we will be inviting them very soon.

So this was like a fundraising for that day because we are going to be inviting all churches from Bulawayo then there would be big prizes.”

The vision behind the competition is to bring back the concept of a strong main choir in churches, as it was with main line churches in the past decades.

Inspired by other nations, prophet Chiza said seeing other nations conducting the same competition gave him the drive to follow in their footsteps, as it will help enhance the choirs’ skills.

“We want to build a strong choir which will be able to compete with other choirs on an international level. So, the concept is to get good singers who will make up a powerful choir of about 500 members,” he said.-@lvydvy1

Kudzai Mpangi, Sunday Life Reporter
THE phenomenal forerunner of perhaps the most influential wave in contemporary urban Zimbabwean music, Leonard Mapfumo has made his debut on the acting scene, probably exploring his other talents in the arts.

With a successful music career full of hits topping national charts and being named the Urban Grooves godfather, Mapfumo has managed to not merely do both, but do both disciplines well.

According to the Maidei hit maker, the series KuChina has been an awesome experience for him as it tickles issues that affect women in their day to day live.

“It has been an astounding experience playing a role of Farai in the local soapie which plays on ZBC every Saturday, which tickles on issues to do with women and I’m sharing the stage with prominent actors who are very passionate about what they do,” Mapfumo said.

The Harare-born and bred musician expressed a deep affection for his new career path since it’s his first time in the acting industry.

“The experience has been quite interesting, even though this is a new path for me I will always give my best in it and ensure that I attain greater achievements in it. It has given me a new found respect for the film industry,” he said.

His new venture does not however, imply that he will be taking a sabbatical in his established music career but rather the rapper revealed that he will be simultaneously dabbling in the two ventures.

“For this year I have decided to release more music, do videos and hopefully if all goes well I will be releasing a new album which I’m currently working  on and also doing the new adventure that I have been pursuing,” he said.

Mapfumo has also directed his musical facets on grooming and creating job opportunities for the arts with the help of the Chinese Embassy.

“I have been working with a lot of up-and-coming artistes, this initiative started as early as 2002 when we mentored and discovered artistes like Tererai Mugwadi and Taurai Mandevvu in 2008 and since then I have been helping a lot of artistes to make their dream come true with the support of the Chinese Embassy,” he said.

Mapfumo this year celebrates 19 years in the music industry. —@kayskudzai