The ManicaPost
Liberty Dube Entertainment Correspondent
INIMITABLE bassist Alick Macheso took last Saturday’s mega gig at The Platinum to honour Orchestra Mberikwazvo’s longest serving member Charles Chembe who has been with the band since its formation 20 years ago.
Chembe alongside other founding band members namely Gift Putazi, Donald Gogo, Thomas Dasinto, Rogers Fatiya and Jabulani Chimiti grouped with Macheso to form “Orchestra Mberikwazvo” and released their ground-breaking album “Magariro” in 1997.
Macheso who was also celebrating his 50th birthday as well as the launch of his 11th album “Dzinosvitsa kure” paid tribute to Chembe for standing with him through thick and thin.
During his lengthy musical journey, Macheso was dumped by a litany of band members who include Thomson Chauke, Rogers Fatiya and Samuel Mugede who remained in the UK during one of the band’s tours but Chembe’s loyalty charmed Macheso.
“I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to Charlie (Charles) for standing with me through thick and thin. He was with us since the formation of this band. I am touched. He has been loyal. I am glad we are celebrating the band’s achievements together,” he said.
The Tafadzwa Nyarara hit-maker was showered with monetary gifts by his fans among them a staunch fan, businessman and socialite, Clyde “CJ” Jani who gave him $US200 for his birthday and new album.
Chipfumo who warmed the stage for Macheso did not disappoint either. He belted out a blend of old and new songs from his previous albums. The four member band put up a sterling performance.
In a sideline interview, the dreadlocked musician revealed that he was working on a new album which is due for release by year end.
“The support that I have received from my fans has been overwhelming. As a way of saying thank you to our fans, we are working on something new. Fans in Mutare always support us,” he said.
