One of the country’s leading guitarists, Josiah Ndlovu, who was plying his trade in Harare has returned to Bulawayo after working in the capital for more than 15 years. BATANAI MUTASA / LUYANDUHLOBO MAKWATI
The multi-talented artiste who is popularly known by his stage name George Phahlane, told this publication that he would be launching a solo career soon in the city.
Phahlane who has roots in Pumula, proved to be a force to reckon with in the country and in regional scenes where he performed with various artistes.
His career reached its peak when he performed with artistes such as the late Brenda Fassie, Lucky Dube (both from South Africa) and the internationally famous UB40.
Phahlane says he now wants to revive jazz music in the city by mentoring up-and-coming artistes.
“I am a founding member of Ebony Sheikh with artistes like Don Gumbo, John Maseko and Jealous Sibanda and ever since I have been performing with that group even though most of the pioneers left,” he said.
“Most of the time I spent in Harare I was with other bands like Jonah Mutuma of Sisonke and Jabavu Drive with Philip Svosve.
“Upon my return, I have been inundated with calls to stage shows and people have advised me to start recording as a solo act which I am doing now,” he added.
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Phahlane is married to female vocalist Siphathisiwe Ncube, twin sister to Busi Ncube, with whom he has five children.
“I have roped in my wife to assist me in some of the songs, but she has a separate career which sees her travel extensively especially with Busi, but the project is ongoing and will soon be out,” he said.
“The message I preach in my music is love which is not confined to romance, but all types like brotherly and national love since I’m a Christian and I know that without love everything is doomed.”
The dreadlocked artiste said he had decided to set base in his home city and hoped to take his music to another level.
He urged his fans to expect the best out of him because he is now a seasoned artist.
Phahlane has been performing at Greys Inn and Cape to Cairo. He also plays at private functions.
