Showbiz Correspondent
BULAWAYO’S representatives at the Chibuku Road to Fame national finals, African Tribe, say they are confident they will win the top prize in Harare today.
The group which is already in Harare will battle it out with nine others – Olama Hearts (Harare), Tunes of Harmony (Manicaland), Uzumba Express (Mashonaland East), Kweseka (Matabeleland North), The Travellers (Midlands), Knight Sounds (Mashonaland Central), Black Omolo (Masvingo), Grade 2 D (Mashonaland West) and Tshitshi Super Sounds (Matabeleland South) at the competition being held at the Glamis Arena. The winner will pocket $7 000 and a recording contract, first runner-up $5 000 while second runner-up will walk away $3 000 richer.
The seven-member Afro Jazz group’s lead vocalist Fiola Malamba-Ncube said this would be their second time competing in the Chibuku Road to Fame finals.
“We aren’t going to Harare to make up the numbers. We’re going there to compete and win the top prize as we’ve since improved on our mistakes from previous years.
“We promise the city and Bulawayo province that we’ll bring the Chibuku trophy home,” said Malamba-Ncube.
She said the group, formed in 2008, was experienced enough to win the competition.
“This is our second time there and we are adequately prepared. I think we have the requisite experience and the skills required for us to win. During the provincial finals, there was stiff competition from our Bulawayo counterparts.
“This has made us better and come Saturday evening we’ll have the top prize.”
Last year’s winners, Adequate Sounds from Harare will have another outing on the Chibuku stage as they will perform at the after party. They will be joined by renowned artistes — Leonard Zhakata, Peter Moyo, Ammara Brown, Soul Jah Love and Boom Betto.