Musician Mshoza has revealed that late kwaito icon Mandoza called her just days before his death to tell her that he was dying and had left her a special gift.

“I shouted at him because he called me and said: ‘I’m leaving you something big my queen, I hope you use it wisely. I just put a verse on your song’

“I shouted at him and responded: ‘You’re leaving? Where to?’ I swore at him because I thought he was joking,” Mshoza revealed to TshisaLIVE recently.

Mandoza even requested that she joins him at the Thank You SABC concert – the star’s last public performance before his death.

“I asked him for the last time where he was going to? Is he moving out? Where was he was travelling to? They even made Mshoza T-shirts for the event, but I told him that I would not be coming and I would see him on Monday at the studio. He tried to convince me but I didn’t go,” Mshoza said.

Holding back a tear, Mshoza revealed that Mandoza was one of her closest friends in the industry.

“The person I was closest to in the industry, after Lebo Mathosa died, was Mandoza. He was a man so we couldn’t be that close but we spoke often and were close. I was so shocked and heartbroken when I heard (that he had died). We looked after each other,” she said.

Taking a deep breath to compose herself, she recounted how Mandoza had phoned her office to tell her that he had put down a deposit on a new car but felt like God did not want him to get it because he was going blind.

“I believe now that people can see when they are about to go. He knew it,” Mshoza said.

– TimesLive

Award winning singer and songwriter Zahara is officially a makoti. The muso revealed that her lobola negotiations have been concluded and her fiance is paying 20 cows.

Zahara revealed to a daily newspaper that Amaza’s family came to her family as part of the lobola negotiation and asked how many cows and the prices of cows. The two families agreed on an amount for lobola. They signed the agreement.

Meanwhile, Zahara has come out strongly to blast a Drum magazine report‚ which claimed she “lied” about lobola negotiations being concluded because she was “ashamed” and “embarrassed”.

The magazine reported that sources who attended the negotiations revealed that Zahara’s lobola negotiations had not been concluded‚ as both parties could apparently not agree on an amount.

The report also went on to claim that despite negotiations not being concluded‚ Zahara confirmed during a recent interview that lobola had been paid for her.

Speaking to TshisaLIVE about the report a furious Zahara slammed the speculation.

“I don’t know where Drum got this information from but it is false. I don’t talk about my love life. I don’t talk about my love life. And I have never commented about my love life to that publication. Lobola is a secret process. Xhosa’s will never talk about it (the process)‚” Zahara said.

Even though it was something that Zahara isn’t usually comfortable sharing with the world‚ in an attempt to set the record straight‚ she confirmed to TshisaLIVE that her lobola agreement was signed.

“Amaza’s family came to the house and the two families agreed on an amount for lobola. They signed the agreement and‚ like the tradition goes‚ the Ntshangas will be back to make the payment‚” she added.

And as any bride-to-be would be‚ Zahara is excited about walking down the aisle in the first quarter of next year.

During an interview with Sowetan earlier this month‚ Zahara couldn’t hide her excitement.

“I’m very excited. It’s every girl’s dream to get married‚ especially when they are happy with the person they love and he fears God‚” she said.— Sowetan/DailySun.

Pattern and  Style, Yoliswa Dube                                                                                                                                                                                                 OUT of interest, I asked a friend if he owned a pink shirt. He didn’t, he said.

I asked why and his response was two-fold. First, he said his complexion wouldn’t go quite well with pink and secondly, he said pink was for rich men.

He said “it took a certain kind of man” to wear a pink shirt and look good in it.

I argued that the likes of rapper Desmond “Stunner” Chideme and Zimbabwe style icon Craig Zoowie effortlessly rock pink shirts but neither of them are light skinned per se.

I wouldn’t know about either their bank balances but don’t crucify me for saying they probably don’t sign off millions at a time.

My friend’s argument was baseless, I thought. He probably just didn’t like pink and would feed his mind with all sorts of theories about why a pink shirt wouldn’t be any good.

Pink is a good colour which transcends both genders pretty well. You certainly don’t have to be rich to wear pink. Maybe your complexion counts but not so much. Pink is one of those colours which will make a woman look at a man twice, just to see if he wore it right. So it does matter what you’ll pair your pink shirt with and what shade of pink it is.

Blush pink is obviously more luxurious than ceres or hot pink. Hot pink could actually be beyond hideous on a dark skinned person — it would become somewhat the battle of the colours — blue-black complexion against a hot pink.

To be safe, I’d say go for a more subtle pink, something that would be easy on the eye.

You could pair the pink shirt with a number of basic pieces. For instance, a navy blue blazer over a pink shirt and khaki chinos with brown shoes and a matching brown belt would be a smooth business casual look.

A pocket-square would be an excellent addition to the look — women like men who pay attention to detail.

A pink shirt would also work pretty well with a black, grey or navy blue suit and a matching tie. With a black suit, black shoes are more ideal while navy blue and grey could swing quite easily with brown shoes.

The secret lies in always making sure the shoes and the belt match. This creates a sense of cohesion and obviously looks neater.

Pink is such a delicate colour that if handled well, would give you a super clean look.

I see a lot of men pairing their pink with brown and sometimes baby blue. Now, that takes a certain kind of man to pull off!

You’d need apples of steel and your confidence levels would have to be at 100, almost bordering on arrogant to do two bright colours at once.

But this isn’t quite your everyday look. It would work for a wedding or when the invitation card says “Dress To Impress”.

I saw a picture of a man in a black and white plaid suit with a white shirt, a navy blue tie and a matching pocket-square and was convinced it truly takes a certain kind of man to pull off certain clothing items, a pink shirt included.

The man has to be clean and well-groomed. He has to pay delicate attention to detail. The man has to carry some aura, the kind that would leave you convinced he has a seven figure bank balance, even if he doesn’t.

Until next week, flaunt your pattern and style and don’t forget to catch up with me on Twitter handle @Yolisswa, visit my blog, www.stayera247.blogspot.com or like my Facebook page Pattern & Style.

Mabla cleans up after fans threw cans on stage

THERE was chaos at the Jah Prayzah show in Johannesburg on Saturday after hundreds of fans were refused entry because they did not have tickets which were only available via an online platform – Webtickets, and sold out before the show started.

Resultantly, hundreds of fans turned up at the famous Bassline in Newton hoping to buy tickets at the door but were told they could not do so.
Irate fans demanded to be let in and started surging forward. Some who had tickets found it difficult to get in due to the commotion, adding to the tension of the crowd.

Meanwhile, inside, the show was running late and about 2 000 fans were growing impatient. The crowd outside finally managed to break in and a stampede into the venue ensued. Security personnel sprayed them with fire extinguishers to stop the chaos. Though scores piled into the venue without paying before the situation came under control, many fans were stuck outside.

One fan said: “No one told us how the mess up would be fixed so that angered us and the crowd forced open metal doors.”

She said when the security guards sprayed the extinguishers on them, some tried to run away and got injured in the process.

“I was sprayed right in the eyes because I was in front. I just kneeled down waiting for help because I couldn’t see. I fell and hurt my leg.”

Later when the show started, Nox was first on stage. He performed four songs before the chants for Jah Prayzah forced him off. Paddy Watts was next, but got shocked when cans started flying on stage and he too had to make a hasty exit. It was now after 11PM.

Mabla, the guy from Jah Prayzah’s team who usually gets on stage first to ensure everything is in place took to the stage after Watts. The crowd settled down for a bit, but got impatient with him and he too got a baptism of cans and flying beer.

Then Jah Prayzah’s band came on and did a sound check while his dancers did some warm up moves. But the crowd had waited enough. “Ti’kuda Jah! Ti’kuda Mudhara! (We want Jah! We want Mudhara!)

Then the unthinkable happened. They too got cans flying their way. As they dodged the flying aluminium, Jah came running onto the stage and wild cheers erupted.

The venue was packed beyond recommended capacity.

Jah brought it on. He gave a whammer of a performance and soon everyone seemed to forget the earlier chaos as they melted into euphoric Prayzah pleasure.

The show ended just before 2AM and before he left the stage, Jah apologised for the chaos that had taken place earlier and promised to get a bigger venue next time.

Yesterday, Jah Prayzah was in Cape Town where he was set to perform at the Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concert. – Zimbojam/Showbiz Reporter/Gemnation

Twenty-two-year-old Noma Khumalo from Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal is the winner of Idols South Africa season 12.

The student teacher beat Thami Shobede and becomes the first woman in seven seasons to win the coveted title. For her efforts, Noma will be signed by Gallo Record Company.

It is a beautiful story for the winner as she only auditioned because her school kids pushed her to. After she got the golden ticket during the auditions she called them up in a touching moment.

The ratings for this year’s edition will excite the producers who are back with season 13 next year as 14 million votes were cast last week.
Season 13 audition dates have been unveiled with Cape Town hopefuls being the first to be auditioned on January 14. – Online

Miss Tourism Zim Ashley Morgen flanked by her princesses Nonhlanhla Dube and Shirley-Anne Lindsey

Melissa Mpofu, Showbiz Editor
RECENTLY crowned Miss Tourism Zimbabwe (MTZ), Ashley Morgen, may want to purchase her own vehicle with the $20 000 prize money she is set to receive on Wednesday as the vehicle which she won at the weekend will have to be surrendered to the MTZ Trust once she completes her reign.

While other Miss Tourism Zimbabwe queens like Vanessa Sibanda (2009) and Rumbidzai Mudzengerere kept the vehicles they won, it will not be the same for the Bulawayo beauty.

“Ashley will only use the car for her reign as she’ll have to bring it back to the Miss Tourism Zimbabwe Trust once she completes her duties,” said MTZ patron  Barbara Mzembi yesterday.

The vehicle sponsored by South Africa-based Gwanda businessman, Justice Maphosa’s Big Time Events, together with the queen’s other prizes will be presented to her at a prize giving ceremony in Harare on Wednesday. Fortunately, the queen has a licence so she will likely drive herself from the prize giving ceremony.

Morgen, who was mentored by Sarah Mpofu’s Fingers Modelling Academy, is expected in Bulawayo this morning from Harare to spend time with family and friends before starting her duties. She will travel back to Harare on Wednesday to start preparing for the looming Miss Tourism International pageant being held in Malaysia next month.

Mzembi said a lot of trips had already been lined up for Morgen.

“Ashley will have to travel to America, probably in January next year where she’s been invited by the conservation society. But before that, she has to travel to Madrid for a tourism fair,” said Mzembi.

However, for now, the focus is on preparing the queen for the Malaysia trip where she is set to represent Zimbabwe at Miss Tourism International.

“Our focus now is on tutoring Ashley, sorting out her wardrobe and teaching her etiquette as we prepare for the world contest. She’ll be staying with me for the next three weeks before she leaves for Malaysia,” said Mzembi.

Unlike other pageants where models have had to relocate to Harare for their reign, Miss Tourism Zimbabwe is unique as Morgen will be residing in Bulawayo and will only travel to Harare when she has duties to take care of there.

“There’ll be no need for the queen to stay in Harare as she can do most of the stuff while she’s in Bulawayo. She’s a university student and also has to focus on her studies so we’ll ensure that we don’t strain her.”

The MTZ first princess, Nonhlanhla Dube, another Bulawayo beauty will be working closely with the Zimbabwe Agricultural Society (ZAS) for the next year.

“The first princess was crowned Miss Agro Tourism and her duty is to assist the growth of agriculture in the country. She’ll also be the face of next year’s agricultural show,” said Mzembi.

Dube will be given a car by ZAS, also for use during the reign only.

Showbiz Reporter
ST Joseph Primary School from Goromonzi emerged winners of the Jikinya traditional dance festival at a national competition held in Masvingo last Friday.

For their efforts, the group, which performed the Chinyambera dance, were given a $1 200 prize, trophy and 15 medals for the 13 participants and their two teachers. The school also scooped the Prof Hope Sadza excellence award in Common dance and got another $300.

On second position was Bulawayo’s Mkhithika Thebe Primary School who won $1 000, a trophy and 15 medals as well. They performed the Amantshomane dance.

Rujeko Primary School from Mutare was the second runner up. They performed mbakumba and were awarded $700, a trophy and 15 medals.
Maringire Primary School from host province – Masvingo took fourth position and was given $500, a trophy and 15 medals. They performed the mhande dance.

The bottom five schools were all given consolation prizes of $150 and medals for participants.

Guest of honour at the event, Reverend Paul Bayethe Damasane thanked the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe for championing arts development through organising the festival.

“These youngsters are the future of tomorrow and for them to participate in Jikinya is an assurance that our culture and heritage is going into the future. Such school arts activities should continue beyond Jikinya Festival,” said Rev Damasane.

“Jikinya Dance Festival plays a crucial role in safeguarding Intagible Cultural Heritage. The importance of Intangible Cultural heritage is not the cultural aspect, but rather the wealth of knowledge and skills that is transmitted through it from generation to generation.”

Rev Damasane urged parents to support children who want to take up arts related studies saying traditional dance was an important source of economic development.

“Communities benefit economically through making and selling costumes, props as well as by training youngsters the dancing techniques. We’ve artists who have found sustainable livelihoods through Dance. We see them at weddings, functions and parties where they dance for a fee.

“Some traditional dance groups are now renowned internationally and are raising our nation’s esteem through dance. I urge parents to desist from shunning traditional dance and encourage children to participate because that could be a source of your child’s livelihood tomorrow”.

The Tellers cast perform at Bulawayo Theatre (Picture by Mgcini Nyoni)

Bruce Ndlovu, Showbiz Correspondent
While there is nothing elegant about suffering, an all-women ensemble in The Tellers musical, which premiered last Wednesday at the Bulawayo Theatre, did an excellent job.

They beautifully unpacked the grim lives of Zimbabwean women toiling under economically uncertain times and the turmoil of less-than perfect relationships.

Commerce and love mingle in the Raisedon Baya penned play, as a talented cast of women illustrated how their hearts and minds had been battered by men who crept into their lives with the promise of love, only to leave disappointment and heartbreak when they slithered away.

Perhaps this is the most ironic thing about The Tellers. Despite featuring an all-female cast, the play is as much about men as it is about the women.

The character who best illustrates the play’s issues is shop hand NaNtuli, who with her trusted broom, is always sweeping around diligently despite endless abuse from her superiors.

She represents long suffering Zimbabwean women whose spouses work outside the country. After a long wait for him to come home, she discovers from the women in his secret life that he is bed-ridden.

This revelation is hard for her to swallow, despite the fact that the bar had been set so low for her that she was content with the groceries that he sent for his son, Striker.

Neither love nor affection but groceries, it seems, are the glue that has kept their distant union intact. Under such circumstances, struggling as she is financially, she is likely to be left to sweep away the mess he leaves behind, much like the way she brushes away the dirt that accumulates at the store.

From cheating absentee fathers and irresponsible husbands, deadbeat men are the thread that connects the diverse women, working at a struggling store, in the play which ended its brief run two evenings after its rousing debut last Wednesday.

Cast in roles that they seem to have been born to play, multi talented performers Lady Tshawe and Donna N were the sparkling play’s brightest sparks on the opening night.

Spotting outfits that seemed more appropriate for naughty high school girls than working women, the two were the dynamos that powered the play as, playing a pair of gossip loving, energetic cashiers, they were the nerve centre from which the other women’s stories branched from.

As it is a musical, song is an integral part of the play and with their powerful voices the two were always bound to shine in this aspect of the production.

While it is undeniable that Donna N and Lady Tshawe can sing with the angels, their talents were enhanced by the live band which is an integral part of the musical.

This part of the production forcefully brought it home to the audience that The Tellers were there not only to feed the eye, but the ear as well, as the band expertly navigated the musical interludes that punctuate the play.

The band also benefited from a clever manipulation of the stage lights as, playing from behind what seems like a thin see through curtain, they were only visible once the lights were turned on in their section.

Thus the band became a somewhat sinister yet beautiful part of the production, as it was rarely seen although its elegant touch was felt whenever necessary.

Black Motion

Bongani Ndlovu, Showbiz Correspondent
FOLLOWING South African DJ Black Coffee’s epic shutdown at last year’s Ibumba Festival (iFest), organisers this year have turned to another equally talented act from that country in the mould of house music duo Black Motion to bring the curtain down on the week long fete.

The iFest to be held in Bulawayo from December 16 to 22 will feature the Fortune Teller hit-makers. They are billed to perform on December 21 at Hartsfield Tshisa Nyama where they will be supported by DJs Victor Bravo, Crazy D, Crazy Black, Liz, Ras Obido, Wellyonz, Slimza, Nospa, Staffa, Skaiva, Eugy, Teddy and Yugoee. MCs on the night will be Clive Chigubhu and Bowsky with entrance pegged at $5 or R100 before 8PM and $10 or R200 afterwards. VIP is pegged at $20 or R300.

Event organiser, Mduduzi Mdlongwa of 3D Events said they wanted to do away with the culture of having people come out for shows late in the night, hence the cheap ticket pricing before 8PM.

“We want people to come in early to avoid congestion at the gate. The price of beverages on the night will be subsidised so that our patrons enjoy the night,” said Mdlongwa.

In a bid to develop the arts, Mdlongwa said they would give local DJs an opportunity to meet and share notes with the Black Motion duo of Thabo “Smol” Mabogwane and Bongani “DJ Murdah” Mohosana.

“Last year when the duo was here, they were not interested in being in the hotel. We hope that this time around, there’ll be time for them to go and see some of the shows at the iFest.

“We also want them to meet up with our number one house producer DJ Skaiva so that they share notes in studio and also watch him perform his set,” said Mdlongwa.

Revellers will have an opportunity to witness Black Motion dish out music from their latest 13-track album Ya Bodimo that contains popular track, Omo Dudu.

Ammara Brown and Tytan

Showbiz Reporter
Ammara must stop performing the song Mukoko without Tytan.  If she does, she must give him a percentage of the money she will have been paid for the performance.

This is the general feeling among local music followers who feel Ammara is personalising Tytan – an up-and-coming artiste’s track, especially after she shone at Miss Tourism Zimbabwe when she performed it.

Ammara, whose music career was catapulted after the release of Mukoko – a track in which she features – has been benefiting immensely from that collaboration. She has been getting a lot of invites to perform at key events – some across the border – of late probably because of that track.

Recently, she was in America where she performed in Dallas, Texas at the Zim Achievers Awards. Also, she was invited by Coke Studio in South Africa to collaborate with Zinhle Ngidi and Sizwe Ngubane.

While she is undeniably talented, people feel like she is reaping where Tytan sowed.

Former ZiFM Stereo personality, Sokostina (real name Tendai Garwe) asked followers on her Facebook wall if Tytan was no longer interested in the song Mukoko. This sparked a lot of debate with fellow personalities – Zororo Makamba and Tich Mawoni who was an M.C at Miss Tourism Zimbabwe weighing in.

Said Mawoni: “Tytan should be part of every Mukoko performance or charge for it.”

Posted Natalie Mwayera:

“Tytan, you need to get your song back and own it. Majority of Zimbabweans here and abroad believe that song is Ammara’s and can you blame them? She seems to have taken it to the next level and has performed it alone more times than you.

“I think you’ve taken a seat back. Own your song because you worked so hard to give it to the world.”

Star Baptista blamed Tytan for failing to take control of the situation in which the song is now confused to be Ammara’s.

“I love Mukoko, but I think the mistake was how the video was introduced on social media. Ammara has over 1.2 million YouTube views while Tytan only has 77 000. The owner of the song is the only one who should have shared the song. For example, for Watora Mari, Jah Prayzah and Diamond are not competing for YouTube views as the song was exclusively released by Jah Prayzah,” wrote Baptista.

Makamba, a popular TV personality weighed in: “Most people think it’s Ammara’s song because the video with over a million views is uploaded on her YouTube account and is written Ammara & Tytan.

“I just hope Tytan sees the importance of credit and the order in which his name appears and that keyword ‘featuring’.”

Tytan, responding to fans, said although he cared about his song, the way in which people confuse it to be Ammara’s song concerns him.

“I’m very concerned, but I have to keep my chin up in the process,” responded Tytan.

He said unlike Ammara, he was not invited to Miss Tourism Zimbabwe so he watched her perform the track in the comfort of his home.

“Such is life. I wasn’t privileged to perform at Miss Tourism Zim, nothing I can dwell on. The fact that people noticed my absence and felt for me is really a picker upper for me,” said Tytan.

“I’m just excited about the next project at the moment.”

Shinsoman

Showbiz Reporter
ZIMDANCEHALL chanter Shinsoman shocked all and sundry at the weekend when he burst on stage during the Miss Tourism Zimbabwe finals spotting a marijuana suit in front of the First Lady, Dr Grace Mugabe.

Shutting down the glamorous event where most had dressed to the nines, Shinsoman came on stage amid wild cheers from fans and when they realised he was promoting the smoking of weed in the country, they could not help but gasp in bewilderment.

Most said Zimdancehall artistes needed to take themselves more seriously by respecting themselves and organisers of events.

“Shinsoman may want to take himself more seriously by dressing appropriately. Just how did he choose this outfit, especially when he knew the First Lady was going to be there as she was the guest of honour,” said a person in the crowd who preferred anonymity.

“He must look at other artistes like Dr Malinga, Busiswa and Ammara who performed on the same stage. They were decently dressed and he just had to be the odd one out, killing the fun.”

Fortunately, as Shinso took to the stage, the First Lady and other respectable guests were on their way out, saving them from being exposed to such indecency.

Shinso has however, apologised for wearing the marijuana outfit saying he did not realise the magnitude of the event.

His manager, Peter Chiyangwa, said: “The outfit was not appropriate for the event. It was an error on our part and we apologise for that as we didn’t realise that the First Lady would be there.

“It was probably the excitement of being called to perform at such a great event so we wanted to look extraordinary.

“Those Jamaican people whom we draw inspiration from smoke ganja and so forth so we just thought of wearing the ganja suit as a symbol that we also believe that ragga originated from the smoking of ganja.

“Shinsoman personally doesn’t smoke ganja, it’s just an outfit as he wanted to look unique.”

Jeys Marabini

Nhlalwenhle Ngwenya, Showbiz Correspondent
NOW and then, Bulawayo artistes have been slated for failing to work together to push and promote their music.

But if the show that was held at White City Stadium at the weekend is anything to go by, then local artistes seem to have found a common musical voice.

The much hyped show dubbed, “Fill Up White City Stadium” lived up to expectations as hundreds of people braved the drizzling weather to watch Bulawayo’s galaxy of musicians taking to the stage.

The concept hit the right chord as it offered diverse genres of music ranging from Hip-Hop, Rhumba, Gospel and Pop music, giving the Bulawayo audience a wide palate to sample from.

Probably a first of its kind, the show managed to draw mostly entertainment starved youths from Mpopoma, Magwegwe, Mzilikazi, Njube, New Lobengula and Pumula high density suburbs.

Live entertainment in these suburbs is not a regular feature as most big shows in the city are usually held at prime venues like Queens Sports Club and Hartsfield Rugby Grounds.

“We hope we’re going to be receiving more shows of this nature in the suburbs. The venue here is central to us so we can easily attend and go home after the show without any transport hassle,” said one of the youths who attended the show.

But there are some who feel the show could have been a huge success if it had been fairly advertised.

The show proved to be a fair first attempt for united Bulawayo artistes as it went on until the wee hours of the morning with a live broadcast from ZBCtv.

Obediah Matulane, who was among the performers, said he was thrilled by the support they got.

“I wish we could have more shows of this magnitude. This proved that Bulawayo has the capacity to host big shows and that the people are very supportive because they came to the venue despite the rains,” he said.

Young artistes like Guluva 7, Mzoe 7 and Umkhathi proved their worth as they took to the podium and showed why they are becoming households names in the country.

Jeys Marabini also gave a splendid performance.

As usual, Clement Magwaza was the highlight of the show as he left the audience in a frenzy and pleading for more.

In general, all the artistes who performed seemed to have a point to prove as they gave the event their best.

Minnie Dlamini

The entire nation knows that Cassper Nyovest is completely smitten with Minnie Dlamini.

He’s even openly admitted that he’ll marry her in a heartbeat.

Even though Minnie has ‘friendzoned’ the rapper on numerous occasions‚ this hasn’t stopped him from believing she would one day be his.

So if that day ever came- Cassper is willing to fork out R1 million for lobola in exchange for Minnie’s hand in marriage‚ as he’s mentioned in songs before.

In a totally unrelated post Minnie shared a picture of herself‚ speaking about how a good personality outlives good looks.

“A pretty face gets old. A nice body will change. But a good woman‚ will always be a good woman‚” she said.

A fan commented on Minnie’s post saying that a good woman didn’t need a R1 million lobola.

“A good woman don’t need a milli‚ she deserves a milli‚” responded Minnie.

Talk about knowing your worth!

Meanwhile, The first lady of West Ink Records Babes Wodumo has sent a very sweet message to her ‘friend’ Boity. Babes posted a picture of her and Boity with a sweet message on Instagram that reads, ““They’re the few people who accept silence over conversation. A relationship like this denies silly promises and persuasion. You don’t feel the need to second guess thoughts or measure words. Their love comes in wholes, not halves, not thirds.”

Boity replied with “I love you too Sugar” to the  sweet post.— Sowetan.

Sulumani Chimbetu

Melissa Mpofu, Showbiz Editor
DENDERA kingpin Sulumani Chimbetu ties the knot with Linda Samuriwo, a woman he has been cohabiting with for the past seven years, on Saturday.

The couple, which has been married customarily and has two children, one in Grade Two and the other who is under one year, will wed at Zimbali Gardens in Greendale, Harare.

Jah Prayzah and wife – Rufaro, who are also yet to have a white wedding, will be best man and best girl while superstar Oliver ‘Tuku’ Mtukudzi will play the late Simon Chimbetu’s role of father. Alick Macheso’s former band member – Slomo and Sulu’s cousin –Tryson Chimbetu are some of the groomsmen.

Sulu’s manager, Joe Local Nyamungoma said all was set for the big day.

“People will gather at Zimbali from 10AM for the wedding ceremony. We’re expecting to conclude everything by 5PM to make way for the after party taking place at Belgravia Sports Grounds,” said Nyamungoma.

At the after party, Sulu’s fans will be required to part with $5 to celebrate and witness him churn out songs from his new offering – Jamboree. He will be joined by other artistes – Jah Prayzah, Tryson Chimbetu, Seh Calaz and Hope Masike among others.

Those who will attend the wedding will however sample the new album first at the wedding. The nine-track album features tracks Arasa Mwana, Not Necessary and Mamonya.

Sulu (34), popped the question last year during his birthday celebrations at Private Lounge in Harare.

The wedding was initially set to take place at Rufaro Stadium which incidentally hosted music legend Zexie Manatsa’s wedding on August 29, 1979.

But Nyamungoma said they had to settle for an enclosed venue because of rain fears.

@maffarro.

Ammara Brown

Showbiz Reporter
AMMARA Brown says she has equal rights as Tytan to song, Mukoko, as it is a collaborative effort between the two and not a feature by her.

She was responding to calls for her to stop performing the track without Tytan, a musician who some claimed to be the rightful owner of the song.

Many felt that only Ammara – a now established artiste – was benefiting from the collaboration at the expense of Tytan – a novice who approached Ammara for the duet.

“Mukoko is a duet. Tytan and Ammara share equal rights and ownership to this particular project. It’s not a feature song, but an equal collaboration between the two artistes with Jusa Dementor on production. That still remains the case,” said Ammara’s manager, Tsungi Zvobgo.

“When the song came out, it was marketed as a project by Tytan and Ammara Brown. The nature of such a partnership means that both artists can do what they like together and separately to push it for the benefit of both.

“It’s not necessary for Tytan or Ammara to start a Mukoko performance with a short speech or disclaimer about who partnered with who on the song because it is evident for anyone who looks up the song that it is a collaborative effort.”

Zvobgo said Ammara had performed without Tytan at Miss Tourism Zimbabwe simply because he was not invited to the event.

“Initially, Miss Tourism organisers asked for Tytan to perform Mukoko with Ammara. However, they did not follow through with booking him for the performance which is something that’s not in our control.

“We’re not sure where the debate about ownership of the song began, but we readily acknowledge Tytan’s massive role in the project. We’ve never had any intention of taking anything away from him in that regard,” he said.

Tinopona ‘Tin Tin’ Katsande.

Bongani Ndlovu, Showbiz Correspondent
IT’S been five years since Tinopona Katsande shared horrific pictures of her savage beating by her then boyfriend Brian Munjodzi and the former Studio 263 actress and ZiFM personality says she has healed from the whole experience.

Tin Tin, as Katsande is popularly known, was allegedly beaten up by Munjodzi because she asked him to help do the dishes while she did the laundry.

Munjodzi was freed on $100 bail on a domestic violence charge.

Tin Tin posted pictures of her swollen face on social media and the images immediately went viral, drawing condemnation for the attack and of her for sharing her personal issues with the public.

As the nation joins the world in commemorating 16 days of activism against gender based violence, Tin Tin shared how she felt during the time in a Facebook post.

The talented actress said she was dismayed at the vitriol that was spewed at her on social media particularly from women.

“Five years ago my then boyfriend brutally physically assaulted me. I was ashamed embarrassed and called names. I felt vulnerable, exposed and belittled. Social media was awash with women lambasting me for speaking out against this abuse. I was told I should keep such things to myself because that is what my culture dictates. You (my fellow women) called me ‘h***’, ‘stupid’ and ‘deserving’ of such treatment,” said Tin Tin.

She said although saddened by the online mockery she picked herself up and moved on with her life.

“For the life of me I couldn’t understand where all this venom was coming from. At that moment I was completely broken. But, like in every dark situation, the light began to peer through. I sought personal and professional help,” said Tin Tin.

“The counselling and support I received from other women and organisations gave me the strength I needed to move from a victim to a survivor. I found the strength to forgive all and I acquired the wisdom to see the bigger picture. I stopped focusing on the petty and honed in on the progressive which has now become synonymous with my character.”

Tin Tin said as part of her healing process, she set up an organisation to help women speak out when they have been abused.

“Today I run my own organisation SpeakOut-Handinyarare a non profit making organisation focused on eliminating domestic violence through awareness campaigns carried out through creative skills in creative spaces.

“Funds generated from these awareness activities are for the construction of safe houses in Zimbabwe which serve as an active resources centre for victims to survivors of domestic violence,” said Tin Tin.

As part of efforts to raise funds for her organisation, Tin Tin has decided to go back on stage and perform a one woman play, ‘Hot Water Bottle’ at Theatre in the Park in Harare next Wednesday.

Tin Tin was last on stage six years ago when she performed the same play written by renowned playwright Noel Marerwa.

“I haven’t been on stage or mastered a script in almost six years so my nerves are definitely doing scales. People should come support not only me but help realise a dream to build a safe house for abused women.”

The play features Tin Tin as Mia, a young lady who decided not to tolerate unfaithfulness from her husband and finds solace and love from a Hot Water Bottle.

@bonganinkunzi

Ronnie Nyakale popularly known for his role as Cosmo

Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, Plumtree Correspondent
SOUTH African actor Ronnie Nyakale popularly known for his role as Cosmo on SABC1 popular soapie Generations: The legacy, is expected in Plumtree tomorrow for a Family Fun Day.

The talented actor is also expected to grace an after party for Plumtree socialite, Pretty Ndlovu that will be held at 4Js Sports Bar.

Event organiser Handsome Sibanda said the fun day will be held at Maqhawe Pre-school from 8AM till 5PM with the after party scheduled to begin at 6PM.

“We have invited Ronnie Nyakale popularly known as Cosmo to a Family Fun Day to be held on Saturday at Maqhawe Pre-school. He will then join an after party for Pretty Ndlovu popularly known as Magcwala’s birthday celebrations,” he said.

Sibanda said a number of games and entertainment activities for both children and adults were lined up for the Fun Day. He said these include jumping castles, clowns, trampolines, swimming, a braai and many more games.

Sibanda said DJ Kead Wikead from Bulawayo will be the guest DJ at the after party. He said Plumtree DJs Yugoe, Mabae and Widdy will also provide entertainment.

Musicians Ice Eazy, Tsibi and Jay lv will also  perform.

In an interview Cosmo said he was looking forward to his visit which will afford him an opportunity to interact with Zimbabwean artists.

“I can confirm that I will be coming to Zimbabwe, Plumtree in particular on Saturday. I’m looking forward to meeting and interacting with Zim artists and hopefully motivating upcoming artists.

“ I know that many Zimbabweans follow the soapie and I’m glad to finally meet the fans who continue to support my career,” he said.

Plumtree based entertainment company, Toundtainment in a bid to provide entertainment to the border town, has embarked on a programme to invite established local artists and others from neighbouring South Africa to perform in the town.

South African comedian and actor, Vuyo Mgudlwa popularly known as Madluphuthu recently visited Gwanda and Plumtree districts.

South African actor, singer, poet and dancer Israel Makoe who is best known for his role as GP in the SABC drama series, Gaz’lam and Christopher Khubheka who is best known for his role as Gunman in Yizo Yizo have also visited the border town.

@DubeMatutu

The cast during rehearsals

Nhlalwenhle Ngwenya
THEATRE for Everyone in partnership with Alliance Francaise will tomorrow stage its last play of the year titled My Dream at the Bulawayo Theatre.

Theatre for Everyone started early this year as a monthly programme set to promote and support young upcoming actors, build up theatre audience whilst creating a marketable, sustainable and worthy theatre industry.

The initiative is set to resume in February 2017 with fresh and entertaining productions.

In its last 2016 offering Theatre for Everyone is set to take its audience on a spiritual journey titled My Dream.

The play is a story of a boy whose body is a vessel of three spirits struggling to be dominant and be in charge of the boy.

Theatre for Everyone project coordinator, Nonhlalo Dube said the play aims to usher its audience into conflicts that are prevalent in the spiritual realm.

“My Dream is a story of a boy who lives with three spirits in his body, the spirits being intellectual, voice and the dream. The conflict begins when each spirit wants to take over his life but he thinks it’s an inner conflict. However, he later finds out that it’s beyond him,” said Dube.

Dube added that life in the physical realm has a serious connection with the spiritual realm, but the latter is misunderstood by people.

“The play is an intriguing story that exposes how the spiritual world can be bigger and more powerful than a person such that it can sometimes control them against their will,” she said.

My Dream was penned by an upcoming, promising playwright and actor Vusumuzi Twala and is directed by Zenzo Nyathi, who is a theatre trainer, director, consultant and an award winning actor with over 22 years stage experience.

The cast consists of Nozithelo Vundla, Loveness Gava, Lonesome Tapiwa and young Bruce Mutero.

Pattern and Style, Yoliswa Dube

Nothing is as depressing as feeling like you’ve no stylish clothes to wear.

Everyday is a struggle between looking fresh and feeling good.

Often you stand in front of a wardrobe full of clothes but you feel like you have no clothes decent enough to wear.

You flip through every hanger to check exactly what’s there, in case you missed something but there’s nothing new to captivate your heart a second time.

It stirs up some impatience in you and even gets you a little agitated.

Time is usually not on your side on such a day — the pressure mounts and your stress levels begin to peak.

Now you stand akimbo and simply stare at your clothes clueless on what your next move will be.

It’s not until you learn rotation and re-invention that you realise getting your threads ready for the day doesn’t have to be an emotional roller coaster ride.

Sometimes, all it takes to look good is matching                                                     a bright red pair of shoes with an equally bright red                                   lipstick.

Instead of wearing the same blazer with the same pair of jeans and shirt, layer the blazer with a different top and pair of pants or shorts.

Rotation is key in ensuring your wardrobe remains                     vibrant and give people the impression that your wardrobe                     is a clothing boutique, which you and I already know it’s                     not!

Dressing up otherwise simple pieces with jewellery or shoes could be the difference between fabric “slayage” and a fashion faux pas.

My all-time favourite re-invention is dressing up an otherwise ordinary old checked or denim shirt.

If done well, this is a look you can pull off to so many spaces you won’t believe it.

The trick is in how you decide to layer the shirt, your choice of pants and of course the shoes.

I can’t emphasise the importance of the shoes enough. In most instances, your shoes will either make or break your outfit.

A checked or denim shirt can be paired with denims that have a clean wash and a pair of heels.

An ordinary looking combo — jeans and shirt — can be dressed up by a pair of heels. The shoes will add some vava voom to an otherwise boring combination.

Bring some sexy back with a pair of shorts, a checked shirt and strappy sandals or sneaks.

Depending on what tickles your fancy — a pair of Converse All Stars or air force sneaks will do the trick.

This can’t be any kind of shorts by the way — certainly not one of those that are knee high.

I’m talking something a little shorter, if your body allows it of course.

A white vest and the shirt either buttoned half-way through or tied around your waist is unbelievably fashionable.

Of course you don’t want to go around with the shirt around the waist.

Don’t tie it like my late grandmother, Gogo MaKhuboni, would do after a long day in the fields.

On a blazing hot day, she’d come back to the homestead with her jersey or extra layers scruffily tied around her waist.

Pay meticulous attention to how you tie the shirt. Cut yourself some slack in this heat and dress up what you already have. No one will know how old the fashion piece is if you dress it well.

Feedback from “It takes a certain kind of man . . .”

The reason why Zimbabwean men fail to put up a well groomed look is because of scarce resources. I don’t know if you have realised how hard it is to get a decent piece of good quality clothing especially in Bulawayo. You literally have to criss-cross the whole city before you can get your hands on something of “good quality standard’’, not to mention that it will cost you an arm and a leg to get. Nonetheless what an immaculate article, though some of the points you made would have hit home if you had used more visuals to benefit some of our “not so fashion conscious” brothers. Otherwise well done. — Son of the Soil

Until next week, flaunt your pattern and style and don’t forget to catch up with me on Twitter handle @Yolisswa, visit my blog, www.stayera247.blogspot.com or like my Facebook page Pattern & Style.

Diamond Platnumz

Melissa Mpofu in Harare
Diamond Platnumz, the Tanzanian artiste who collaborated with Jah Prayzah to produce what has now become a hit —Watora Mari, says he is willing to work with more Zimbabwean artistes in order to develop their careers.

Speaking before his performance with Jah Prayzah at the HICC yesterday, the artiste who rose to fame after winning a series of Channel O Music Video Awards a few years back, said he was not selective and could collaborate with anyone.

“When I’m doing a collaboration, I’m not really fussy on whether one is an established artiste or up-and-coming. Whether it’s your first song or second album, I don’t care. As long as I like the beat and if you have a good song, I’ll definitely jump onto it.”

“For me what I believe is that the person who’s starting should be supported because he or she also wants to be successful. I have to be the first person to help people out.”

Diamond Platnumz said being invited to perform in Zimbabwe showed that the East Africa music industry was growing.

“Coming here has opened doors for fellow artistes in East Africa. It shows that our music is growing as it is being appreciated outside our region.”

The artiste who is set to release a single with America’s Ne-yo, said Jah Prayzah was a talented artiste and urged local artistes to emulate him and be more vigorous when marketing their works. He said artistes should take advantage of social media platforms.

“Artistes here should not give up but instead should keep pushing. One day they’ll make it,” said Diamond Platnumz.