SEVERAL first generation artistes sang in celebration of the Zimbabwean independence from colonial rule.
The celebrations were not restricted to Zimbabwean artistes but included internationally-acclaimed music bands and artistes like Bob Marley from Jamaica and Osibisa from Canada. Paul Mpofu (late) had a song that envisioned political leaders and kings coming to Zimbabwe to celebrate its independence.
Musicians like Thomas Mapfumo, Bryn Mteki, Oliver Mtukudzi (late), and Cephas Mashakada (late) all released hits in celebration of independence. Several artistic expressions have been made ranging from craft, visual art, literal works, music, dance and theatre.
All roads led to Buhera, Murambinda for an all-night Uhuru gala scheduled to be held yesterday where popular artists like Agatha Murudzwa were expected to perform.
NewsDay Life & Style spoke to a few artistes from different disciplines about what they feel about Uhuru.
Mary Anibal, Mbira player and singer
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Mbira player, Mary Anibal will celebrate the Zimbabwean Independence Day on stage in Côte d'Ivoire. Anibal will perform at the 13th edition of the Market for Abidjan Performing Arts (Masa) Festival from April 16 to 18. Masa is a cultural platform for promoting African Performing Arts. And part of its objectives are to support creativity and good quality productions including facilitating the movement of artists and their works within Africa and throughout the world.
“I believe that artistic freedom defined by dress and lyrical content in music is a celebration of the gains of independence. Anibal is popular for the songs Bonzo Muderere and Kamuzangaza. Bhonzo Muderere implies doing the most impossible like looking for a bone in okra soup to attain the best while Kamuzangaza means law. My presence in advocacy for human rights resonates well and is synonymous with walking the talk” she said.
Patson Chimbodza, Chipaz Promotions founder
Businessman and music promoter Patson Chimbodza aka Chipaz believes growth in the arts industry is a reflection of a profitable utilisation of the gains of independence. The 22nd National Arts Merit Awards (Nama) Promoter of the Year winner said that he strived to realise a better artistic Zimbabwe as an expression of the gains of independence.
Batsirai Muskwe, visual artist
I thank the gallant freedom fighters who fought to the very end for us to enjoy this independence. Their selflessness was a seed which brought about freedom in a situation where they themselves were not afforded the freedom we enjoy now. I thank the heroes.
Tawanda Takura, visual artist
Independence Day holds a deep significance for us all, young and old alike. It is a time to honour the selfless sacrifices of those who paved the way for the freedom and peace we enjoy today. It is also a time to acknowledge the legitimacy of our history, our present and our future as a nation.
For me, as an artist, independence is vital to my creative process. Both personal and national independence are key to my ability to express my thoughts, ideas and experiences in my art without any restrictions or limits.
This freedom to explore and share my unique narrative without conditions provides the legitimacy that is so crucial to my creative process. It allows me to delve deep into the essence of my art, giving voice to my innermost emotions, reflections and observations.
In this way, independence is not just a day to commemorate, but a precious gift that empowers us to live our lives to the fullest. On this special day, let us remember the sacrifices made for our freedom, cherish the blessings of independence, and embrace the richness of our diverse experiences, both as individuals and as a nation.