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Tawanda Marwizi Arts Correspondent
Talented Congolese chanter Jonasi Kasamba announced his return to Alick Macheso’s Orchestra Mberikwazvo in style on Saturday at Club 007 in Glendale. When Kasamba went on stage there was thunderous applause from the fans with one man only identified as a “pastor” from Mutare jumping on stage to give Macheso and his band $3 500. The man who is said to be a dealer and the musician’s biggest fan in Mutare gave Kasamba a $100 note before splashing the other notes on the other band members as well as Macheso himself.

“I am happy that Macheso has taken this guy back it shows he has mercy and he is determined to take his band further,” he said.

Macheso said words were not enough to thank the man.

“All the way from Mutare just to give me such huge amount of money. That tells me a lot about the people that I entertain and it is up to me and the band to deliver,” said Baba Sharo in response to the surprise gesture.

By taking Kasamba back the King of Sungura seems to be sending a warning to his rivals that he means business, judging by the mood that was in the crowd.

Fans said they braved the showers on the night to witness the return of the chanter.

Some said they had come from surrounding places like Mazowe and Bindura for the show.

“These guys were good and we are happy that Macheso is taking them back,” said a fan, Bruce Chikaba.

By extending an olive branch to Kasamba, some fans said Macheso had proven himself a true humanitarian ambassador.

Others suggested that the “Madhawu” hitmaker should go a step further by re-engaging the other so-called “rebels” like lead guitarist Noel Nyazanda.

Kasamba, who was now plying his trade with Extreme Afrique Choir, could not hide his joy at bouncing back.

“(Macheso) has pardoned me in a move that will see us working together again. He must be blessed for having a light heart on us,” he said.

Macheso’s camp has since confirmed that Nyazanda is on his way back to the band.

Tich Makahamadze said they were happy that things are going according to their plans.

“For Noel we still have to finalise some issues but we are happy that we are getting there. Macheso is a man who always pardons people,” he said.

He said it was encouraging to see people appreciating what the band had done.

“If you see someone coming from Mutare to inspire the band, that should tell you a lot. We are working to have the best for our fans,” he said.