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Ammi Jamanda

Lovemore Meya Arts Correspondent
Prominent female musicians last week thronged Dandaro Inn in solidarity with upcoming Afro-fusion singer, Ammi Jamanda who launched her debut six-track album titled “Ndozvidemba.”

To show their unison in music, Dudu Manhenga and Edith WeUtonga shared touching stories in line with the rise of Jamanda.

Jamanda who is wife to Portifa Mopo gave a sterling performance during the launch. In her speech, Manhenga said when Ammi sent her a WhatsApp message, telling her that she had recorded her album she was very happy.

“When I got the message, I said to myself finally it has happened because we have been talking about it for a long time. There is one writer who alluded to the fact that ‘there is no genius in the art field’.

“But for the past 18 years that I have been in the creative sector, I have witnessed geniuses, characters that brought me to tears like ‘Taka. I have heard guitar speak from Mono Mukundu and drums that hit to the heart in the form of Sam Mataure.

“I have seen gifts that have been coupled with skills and the tenacity that is needed to build a career, and so today I am glad again to witness another gift being unwrapped, let us enjoy, support and welcome Ammi in the sector,” said Dudu.

Edith also spoke glowingly of the ascendance of Ammi.

“Well done, thank you Ammi. I met her almost 10 years ago and she was so determined, willing to learn and she was never moved by being criticised. Two weeks ago she just gave a sterling performance at the just ended Women Arts Festival.

“I saw a shift when she performed compared to 10 years ago and she has grown. We the Zimbabwe Union of Musicians are happy to welcome her into our fold and to all the platforms given at the Book Café, Sistaz Open Mic,” said Edith.

The album was auctioned for $500.

After the official launch, a stellar line up performers including both upcoming and established musicians took to the stage exchanging notes for a worthy cause.

Talented guitarist Kuku went on stage and showed his artistry in the instrument.

Mr Obi also showed that he is the force to reckon while Mopo took fans down memory lane with his track, “Ndochema”.

Not to be outdone was the powerful combination of Andy Muridzo and Jairosi Chabvonga that brought the house down with duet “Ngaituruke”.