After a stiff battle of talents, Chitungwiza-based afro-fusion band, Were, were recently crowned winners of the inaugural Imagine Zimbabwe National competition held at the Music Crossroads Academy in Budiriro, Harare.
Tinashe Sibanda
The five-member energetic ensemble will from August 1 to 3 represent Zimbabwe at the International Imagine Festival in Norway.
Dressed in Black regalia, with body and face paint like the traditional African Zvinyau dancers, Were presented a spirited and unique performance that left the audience in awe.
Comprising Marcia Madzara, Lindiwe Mavunga, Silas Muzira, Blessing Machemedza and Vakayi Nhunge, Were outshined nine other upcoming young artistes including the Afrique Crooners, Dandaro Show Stopers, Dzinza in a Minor (DAM), Gary Tight and the ZO band, Mashona Fusion, Milopi, Sound Print and Warren Park 6 primary school marimba band.
The second round of the contest was the hardest. It was a tight competition between the top five bands which included Were, Gary Tight the ZO band, Mashona Fusion and Milopi Afro Fusion ensemble.
The competition was an all-style music competition for young artists aged 12-20 year-old Zimbabwean that were eager to exhibit their music skills.
Imagine has worked in association with Music Crossroads Inter -regional Festival and its previous winners have toured Europe, playing at Imagine events in Norway, Sweden, Belgium and Croatia.
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“The various display of talent by the various groups was good although the winners topped on originality and creativity, mixing various African cultural elements in their act,” Music Crossroads regional director Mathias Bangure said.
He said he was certain that Were would be the best Zimbabwe representative for the Imagine International Final in Norway.
The event was given a taste of the best as the more experienced local groups, Gwarimba, Club Shanga and Savanna Afros entertained the audiences.
