A popular Zimbabwean music outfit, Mokoomba, is expected to perform in several states in USA from next week until August 16 this year.
The group with a variety of tunes, combined with waist wiggling African dances and fancy footwork, has become a regular feature in the USA music scene.
Mookomba is a Tonga word that connotes deep respect for the Zambezi River - the fourth-longest river in Africa, and the largest flowing into the Indian Ocean from Africa. The 6-member band with English, Luvale, Tonga, Ndebele and Shona songs, is a unique energetic troupe that lights up the stage, keeping its audience on the floor. It combines Zimbabwean traditional and modern music instruments.
Alison Loerke, is the founder of ALIA Productions, an international artistes’ booking and management Company, which booked this tour.
She says,“What fans can expect from Mokoomba is an infectious, high energy performance, with the musicians playing their instruments, singing, and dancing, often all at the same time.
Mokoomba’s lead guitarist, Trust Samende, says the band is preparing for big shows. “We are ready and excited to be coming back to the US. Our preparations have been good and we look forward to play for you songs from our new album, called ‘Tusona’ which has been doing very well and getting good reviews”, he said.
Bassist Tinotenda Zingapeta, affectionately known by his stage name Tino, says they have a lot to offer this year. Tinotenda says,“We always have something new for the fans, people are always looking for intriguing new styles and rhythms and we do not disappoint. People want to learn something new from us all the time.”
Pamhidzai Bhamu, a Zimbabwean based in Maryland who is also hosting Mokoomba, is expecting a full house in all shows. She could not hide her excitement , saying,“We are excited as the Zimbabwe community in the USA, to host Mokoomba and share the opportunity to share our Zimbabwean rich culture and humility.”
In closing, Loerke is promising fireworks, she said, “The US market is loving the Mokoomba music vibe, and "its quite impressive.”
The band members are Mathias Muzaza, Trustworth Samende, Miti Mugande, Ndaba Coster Moyo, Phathisani Moyo and Tinotenda Zingapeta. The internationally-acclaimed music outfit, which publicizes dangers of contracting HIV, substance abuse and other social ills, has become a big hit in many nations, including USA, Germany and Britain.
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