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Trust Khosa
ZIMDANCEHALL stalwart, Maliyakini “Kinnah” Saizi, was the toast of the night at his album launch held at Mbare Netball Complex in Harare last Saturday.
The show, which ended around 5 am on Sunday, marked the chanter’s return to the public eye after taking a sabbatical to work on the ‘Ghetto Story’ album.
He rewarded the highly appreciative crowd of over 4 000 fans with a vintage act set to remain engraved in the minds of many in attendance.
Mr Mbare, as Kinnah is fondly known in his circles, was dapper in a black designer suit on stage.
He was introduced on stage by hypeman Etherton B after midnight, befitting a superstar he is becoming in this particular genre.
The fans could be seen drawing closer to the stage to catch a glimpse of Kinnah who came well-prepared for the event.
Exuding confidence as ever, Kinnah belted out both old and new numbers much to the delight of fans who could not resist the chanter’s polished performance.
Kinnah belted out sing-along tracks like ‘Musombo’, ‘Zheti’, and new songs off the album ‘Ghetto Story’. It was quite encouraging as fans did the most singing as the chanter sometimes played only the intro.
Exuding confidence as ever, Kinnah left the fans in awe as they did most of the singing. To ensure that the event was an all-Zimdancehall affair, Kinnah invited fellow chanters to the celebrations.
Hwindi President who recently survived a car crash was at his usual best. Culture Love joined the party and appeared on stage topless.
Not to be outdone was Blot who made his playlist enjoyable with party songs such as ‘Rufu’, ‘Havasati Vandiona’, ‘Hatitongwe Nemasalad’ among others.
Lady of the moment, Madzimai I-Candy, was part of the strong line-up and she simply delivered a flawless act.
After winning the Harare Cup Clash held in August, Madzimai I-Candy has never looked back. A devoted member of Johanne Masowe, Madzimai I Candy appeared on stage donning church robes.
She proved that she was indeed a talented performer who has fans at heart. Everything about her act was magical.
She proved a lot of maturity beyond her age with her powerful stage communication and interaction.
Jah Signal showed brotherhood as he performed at the launch which culminated in a musical gala of non-stop music.
The late Soul Jah Love’s music was played during intervals in a show of respect for the departed singer.
For a change, fans showed maturity as they respected artists who took to the stage.
Radics told The Herald Arts that Kinnah was a living legend in Zimdancehall circles. Those who have been following this the growth of Zimdancehall will agree with me that Kinnah has done a lot for the genre.
“He put Mbare on the world map as he once formed a formidable clique with Seh Calaz and the late Soul Jah Love.
“The fact that people were singing along to most of his songs showed that he is indeed a man of the people.”
Kinnah, who thrives on simplicity, was all smiles after a successful launch.
“I will always be grateful to my fans who turned out in numbers to support my event,” he said.
“It means a lot for my brand and personal growth. I will always cherish my fans who have shown a lot of faith in my music.”