Zimbabwean Chimurenga legend Thomas “Mukanya” Mapfumo has accepted a blockbuster US$1.5 million performance deal from businessman Wicknell Chivayo, agreeing to perform at Jah Prayzah’s rumoured wedding and Chivayo’s birthday celebration in what is set to become one of the biggest private entertainment events in Zimbabwe’s history.
By Advent Shoko
The announcement comes just days after Chivayo publicly offered Mapfumo US$500,000 to perform at Jah Prayzah’s wedding and US$1 million for a separate performance at his birthday celebrations.
Mapfumo’s acceptance has surprised many Zimbabweans, particularly because the veteran musician has previously turned down Chivayo’s offers of a house and a luxury vehicle, arguing that accepting such gifts would amount to betraying the people.
‘It’s Work, Nothing Else’
Speaking after accepting the invitation, Mapfumo dismissed political interpretations of his decision, saying the performances should be viewed purely as professional engagements.
“Tiri kuuya kuZimbabwe… We are coming to Zimbabwe to perform at Jah Prayzah’s wedding and Wicknell’s birthday. Jah Prayzah is my son and he will be happy that I performed at his wedding. We are also coming for our show dubbed Bira Guru. Ibasa iri. It’s work, nothing else.”
The music icon, who recently revealed that he intends to retire from live performances in the near future, said the shows form part of his final chapter on stage.
Retirement Send-Off
Mapfumo’s decision follows weeks of public debate, with supporters and several figures in the music industry, including his former manager, urging him to accept the lucrative offer.
Many argued that one of Zimbabwe’s greatest musicians deserved a retirement package befitting his decades-long contribution to the country’s music, culture and liberation history.
His acceptance now paves the way for what could be one of the most memorable farewell performances of his celebrated career.
Chivayo Confirms Record-Breaking Payment
Celebrating the agreement, Chivayo confirmed that he would honour his pledge by paying Mapfumo US$500,000 for Jah Prayzah’s wedding performance and US$500,000 for his birthday celebration, before adding another US$500,000, bringing the total package to US$1.5 million.
In a celebratory statement, Chivayo praised Mapfumo’s decision and described the veteran musician as Zimbabwe’s greatest singer.
“I am pleased to announce that I will wholeheartedly honour my commitment by paying a record-breaking US$1 million for these two shows at US$500,000 per show. This will make the legendary Thomas Tafireyi Mapfumo the highest-paid singer ever in the history of our beloved country.”
He added:
“Thank you Mukanya for everything you have done for our nation and for instilling unity and identity through Chimurenga music. Your music has educated, inspired, united and comforted generations of Zimbabweans, and your legacy will continue to live on for many years to come.”
Chivayo also invited Mapfumo to perform at the housewarming celebration of his new residence once construction is completed later this year.
A Historic Musical Reunion
The performances will also reunite two generations of Zimbabwean music.
Jah Prayzah has repeatedly acknowledged Mapfumo as one of his biggest musical influences, with his signature sound drawing heavily from traditional mbira rhythms popularised through Chimurenga music.
Although Jah Prayzah has not publicly confirmed reports of the wedding, the prospect of Mapfumo performing at the event has already generated widespread excitement across social media.
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