Jeys Marabini
Bongani Ndlovu, Showbiz Correspondent
THE stage is set for the uGodlwayo Yithi Musical Festival taking place in Filabusi today with event organiser, Jeys Marabini, saying he is eager to give quality entertainment to people from his home area.
The Filabusi Community Hall will be a hive of activity as the inaugural festival will see Jeys Marabini headline a stellar cast of musicians that include Madlela Skhobokhobo, Progress Chipfumo, Sandra Ndebele, Zinja Ziyamluma, Black Umfolosi, Gaz’elimnyama, Hwabaraty, Insiza Express, Mkhosi and Bhamuza.
The fete is expected to start at 6PM with entrance fees pegged at $3 before 10PM and $4 afterwards.
“Everything is set and what’s left is for people to come in their numbers to watch us perform. We want to bring the glitz and glamour of the city to Filabusi,” said Jeys.
He said the music festival has registered interest from people from Masvingo, Bulawayo and Gwanda.
“Because of the proximity of Filabusi to Gwanda, Zvishavane, Masvingo and Bulawayo, there’ve been a lot of people who’ve shown interest in the show.
They’ve been calling me and we expect them to come in their numbers,” said Jeys.
Tight security has been put in place as police and a private security company Para were hired to keep people safe.
Madlela Skhobokhobo of the Ngamnanka fame said he has been rehearsing from last week in order to give a polished act tonight.
“We have new songs that we want to sample for our fans as we build up to the album launch next year. This is my second time performing in Filabusi and when I did so the first time, I attracted a full house. It shows that people are hungry for our music and we shall deliver,” said Madlela.
The melodic sounds of Black Umfolosi will resonate in Filabusi as they are also expected to take to the stage to entertain the older folk with imbube music.
The group that has toured Europe and America said they were also ready to showcase their act to the people of Filabusi.
For those who follow urban trends, Sandra Ndebele and Hwabaraty will suit their needs, while Mas’kandi musician Zinja Ziyamluma will add some flavour to the already delicious and simmering broth.
Ndebele, who has a new track with Professor called Lizwile, said: “Filabusi should be ready for a night that they won’t forget anytime soon. I’ve a lot of music that I want to share with them from my upcoming album such as Tshibilika which features Leeknotic, Ingoma featuring Mzoe7 and Lizwile that I featured Professor,” she said.