Arts Correspondent
Chimurenga music legend Dr Thomas “Mukanya” Mapfumo is back in Zimbabwe ahead of a series of scheduled performances, including an appearance at fellow musician Jah Prayzah’s wedding.
Mapfumo, one of Zimbabwe’s most influential musicians, arrived in the country amid excitement among fans who have long followed his career and his contribution to the development of Chimurenga music.
Upon arrival, Mukanya was welcomed by the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) boss George Manyaya and music promoter Josh Hozheri.
The veteran musician is expected to make a number of appearances during his stay, with his performance at Jah Prayzah’s wedding set to be one of the highlights.
Mukanya’s performances will see him pocket a whopping US$1 million offered by businessman, Wicknell Chivayo.
The controversial Chivayo initially offered Mapfumo US$500,000 to perform at Jah Prayzah’s wedding, with a further US$1 million pledged for the veteran musician to perform at Chivayo’s own birthday celebrations if the wedding performance did not take place. However, Mapfumo later agreed to perform at both events, with Chivayo confirming a payment of US$500,000 per performance, totalling US$1 million
Jah Prayzah, born Mukudzeyi Mukombe, is one of Zimbabwe’s leading contemporary musicians and has often acknowledged the influence of Mapfumo and other pioneers of Zimbabwean music on his career.
Mapfumo’s return is likely to attract significant attention from music fans, particularly those who have followed his career spanning several decades.
His music has earned him a devoted following both in Zimbabwe and among Zimbabweans living abroad.
Mapfumo spent many years based in the United States but has continued to maintain strong ties with Zimbabwe through his music and periodic visits.
His return comes at a time when Zimbabwe’s entertainment industry is increasingly witnessing collaborations between veteran musicians and younger artists, creating opportunities for different generations of performers to share the stage.
