When music promoter and lawyer Jai Banda celebrated his 65th birthday on Friday night at Mibawa Multipurpose Hall in Limbe, Blantyre, he made sure that he was surrounded by local artists, many of whom he has promoted over the years under his Entertainers Promotions.
The night was so young when DJ Chronics started sound checks in readiness for patrons to fill up the hall.
From as early as 8pm, patrons started trekking to the venue as DJ Chronics played the decks as he lined up roots and culture, amapiano, afrobeats, jazz, house, hip-hop and acoustic tunes.
By 11pm, performances were in full swing with Gibo Pearson ringing his Phalombe music magic on stage. Next was the turn of Chileka crew of Black Missionaries Band, Anthony Makondetsa and Yanjanani Chumbu who made sure that patrons had a good dosage of reggae music. Songs such as Dalo, Mwala Okanidwa, Olenga Dzuwa, Time Mark New York and many more. The highlight was when Chizondi Fumulani took the lead vocals, sending reggae-loving patrons into a frenzy.
At 3am, amapiano star Zeze Kingston took to the stage with his popular songs and well-rehearsed choreography. His songs included Kusangalala, Alamu Anu and a remake of one-time hit song Tchekera Maluzi by Collins Bandawe.
Patrons from all walks of life were there; lawyers, doctors, business people, traditional leaders and others.
Banda received various gifts from companies and individuals. Symbolically, Amaryllis Hotel manager Ramy Waheed presented him with a modern guitar.
In a post event interview, Banda thanked all patrons who witnessed his birthday celebration.
“I decided to have local artists only during this event because I am a firm believer of local music. I also took this opportunity to promote local music,” he said.
Jai Banda is the brainchild behind Utsi Tuluka, Tichezere, Phungwe and Umadziwa music events. n
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