Lifestyle

Kanda Bongo Man is in town

Kanda Bongo Man and Veronica Brooks. PIC KAGISO ONKATSWTSE
 
Kanda Bongo Man and Veronica Brooks. PIC KAGISO ONKATSWTSE

The King of Kwasakwasa, famous for his 1990s hits Lela Lela and Monie has promised bumper shows at the weekend. Bongo Man said he would use the two shows as a dress rehearsal for the big show in Gaborone next April. “I do not want to steal Vebrok’s limelight at the launch, but I will give my fans the best during my show next year.  However, I promise that my fans will like what I will give them during the launch,” he added.

“I feel privileged to be back in Botswana after so long. I thank PP (Gilbert Seagile) for bringing me back to Botswana after 12 years.  What he did for me is fantastic.  I was surprised when he told me that he wanted me to come launch Vebrok,” he said.

The Democratic Republic of Congo artist who now resides in the United States of America (USA) told Showbiz that he was impressed with Vebrok’s music after accessing it on YouTube.

The veteran musician noted that he has since decided to record a song with the local singer after the two shows in Botswana.

“As an African artist I see it fit to support my brothers and sisters.  I intend to work with as many African artists who are willing to put Africa in the world map.  I am also a very open person so when an artist approaches me for help, I do help as long as my schedule allows me,” the Congolese said.

As an aging musician, Kanda Bongo Man said he did not want to take his talent to the grave, but would like to help young musicians establish themselves by sharing his experiences. The musician also noted his intention to shoot a DVD while in Botswana so as to showcase the beauty of this country to the rest of the world.  One of his dreams is to meet President Ian Khama.

After years of touring and no releases, the world famous musician recorded the album Non Stop Feeling last year. His latest release, he said is a mixture of Caribbean and Congolese music. Vebrok has also promised a blast of a show, as she is elated at Kanda Bongo Man’s gesture.  “I met Kanda in Venda where we performed on the same show in September this year. I am one of his biggest fans. I then asked him if I could remake his popular song, Monie and he agreed. We could have collaborated then, but he had some shows in Ethopia and London.  “I was excited when he told me that he was going to launch me as his schedule was clear this weekend where I will be launching my DVD. I feel honoured that Kanda is here and would be supporting me on the big day,” she said.