By Alfred Tembo
Zimbabwe should continue with the hype created towards supporting artistic legends while they are still alive as this will help the industry to grow says former Super Sounds lead guitarist Alex Sekela.
The now semi-retired guitarist said most artistes were struggling to keep up with life needs and demands, a development that has led to the industry seen as less attractive to the young people.
“Personally, I want to appreciate what our government is now doing in an effort to rebrand the creative sector,” said Sekela.
“Considering what I have seen and other past experince, it is important for such aid to continue and it renews the spirit to nurture more talent and at the same time revives the energy to continue creative new artistic products even when one goes into retirement.”
Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation ministry’s Midlands provincial officer Shockson Reward recently said plans by the government to support legends were at an advanced stage.
Sekela said the action taken to celebrate contributions made by Bob Nyabinde through music should not only be restricted to the Midlands province, but nationally.
“Bob Nyabinde is from Midlands [province], but the birthday bash should be nationalised and let people understand the power and authority that his music has to everyone,” said Sekela, who strummed the lead guitar of the hit song Chipendani.
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“I am looking forward to perform also on the day of the birthday bash to show solidarity as one of his friends.”
Meanwhile, all roads will next Saturday lead to King Solomons Hotel, formerly Golden Mile Motel in Kwekwe for Bob Nyabinde 67th birthday bash.
The development comes as a way of recognising the musician, popularly known as the “Headmaster”, for his contribution to the music industry.
Nyabinde was forced into retirement after succumbing to blindness due to a diabetic condition.
