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The Herald, February 6, 1998

ONE of the biggest rhumba figures on the African continent Kababasale Yamampanya, better known as Pepe Kalle to his legion of fans in Zimbabwe, will be coming to the country once again, this time with offerings from his latest album Full Option.

Pepe Kalle, affectionately called the Elephant of Africa because of his big frame, is no stranger to Zimbabwe having performed here 10 years ago. His songs and music have contributed to the popularity of soukous, a Zairean dance of traditional origin, in Zimbabwe and indeed on the international scene.

Ace Music promoter Phillip Mugadza has, however, promised the fans to expect fireworks this time around as Pepe Kalle, who has more than 20 albums to his credit, will be performing songs from his latest offering not yet released in Zimbabwe.

Pepe Kalle will perform at the Sheraton on March 27 and at Skyline hotel the following day.

Mugadza has brought such great artistes to Zimbabwe as Yondo Sister, Clarence Carter, Sakis and other renowned musicians.

Pepe Kalle’s latest album with songs like Savon Familia, Chou and Jhimmy Special is expected to have the same euphoric effect as did Juantio.

Other songs on Full Option include Pesa Wax, Ngada Monique, Sarajevo Continue and Mpenzi Bupe. Produced and distributed by Sterns Music of New York, USA, the album has a total of 10 songs.

Pepe Kalle and his backing group, Empire Bakuba, an 18-member outfit come to Zimbabwe after an international tour which started last year.

LESSONS FOR TODAY

Music is an international art form that unites people.

Although music genres like sungura, kanindo, Zimdancehall, reggae, R&B and others can claim their share of popularity, they will not beat rhumba/soukous music from the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Rhumba put Africa on the global map and produced many internationally acclaimed artistes like Pepe Kalle, Papa Wemba, Sam Mangwana, Kanda Bongo Man, Awilo Longomba, Loketo, Koffi Olomide, Yondo Sister, to name a few.

Soukous artistes are chic, dynamic and they have style. This has been copied by other African artistes.

Music promotion is one great way of supporting musicians both local and international.

The more people are exposed to your music; the more potential listeners you can gain. Thus, music promotions thrive on the need for exposure.

Music promotion can help connect artistes with colleagues and establish a very useful network of contacts.

The showbiz industry benefits a lot from international artistes, who will showcase their work and inspire locals.

Of late Zimbabwean artistes like Jah Prayzah have collaborated with international artistes, thereby increasing their exposure.