Macheso’s redemption task

Entertainment
DECEMBER could be the month that sungura ace Alick Macheso might have to redeem himself from the aggressive younger generation that has literally taken over the showbiz scene.

DECEMBER could be the month that sungura ace Alick Macheso might have to redeem himself from the aggressive younger generation that has literally taken over the showbiz scene.

SILENCE CHARUMBIRA ENTERTAINMENT REPORTER

After a failed album Kwatakabva Mitunhu: Kure Kwekure, Macheso has been left with die-hard fans in his corner and a few others that cannot do without entertainment on a Friday.

In any case, he is not the only one suffering from this tumble in numbers at gigs that has seen musicians entertaining an average of 200 people per night down from well over 500 at the beginning of the year.

But many had expected the fiery bassist would be releasing an album this year; at least to counter the aggressive younger generation that has been demanding a fair share of the scene.

Utakataka Express frontman Peter Moyo is riding high with his debut Mushonga Mukuru, while “The Rebels” should be patting their own backs for the bold move they made when they deserted Macheso to release their debut Ndizvo Zviripo.

Given the lack of new content that the market has suffered, the two outfits are home and dry with albums that are just six months old.

Hopes for a new Macheso album have been shattered with the musician having said he has suspended recording of a new album until next year.

Yet what Macheso now needs to do is redeem himself or keep sinking.

Extrabasso, as he has come to be known, will perform at New Life Nite Club in Budiriro tonight where he hopes to salvage his reputation.

The venue is one of his favourites, yet it is the 1 500 capacity that sends shivers to any artiste.

New Life Nite Club proprietor Fidelis Ngove said with the onset of the festive season, Macheso should do well.

“Macheso always does well at New Life and given it is Christmas time, I think this will actually be one of the best shows here,” Ngove said.

“Showbiz has not been rosy for all musicians locally, but I hope it works out well this festive season.”