Ndingo's IkaJazz mesmerises Phikwe revellers

Calistus Kolantsho
Correspondent | Monday November 22, 2010 00:00

Today he is thrilling them with his tunes.

Fans came from all the corners of the copper mining town of Selebi-Phikwe to enjoy the music of Ndingo Johwa, the man popularly known as Sachilombe, the baboon.

The festival at Bosele Hotel got off to a flying start with revellers taking to the stage to dance to the tunes of  the kalanga jazz. Ndingo's backing vocalists mesmerized the revellers with their  dancing antics that caused some male folks to uncontrollably dive onto the stage that was erected by the poolside. Even  senior politicians in their party regalia were seen taking to the dance floor.

Johwa did not disappoint as he played familiar hits such as Golezwa, nkabaile, Domboshaba and many more. His guitar playing skills were evident throughout the show.

Johwa is currently on a nationwide tour promoting his album that will be released early next year.

The compilation album, the Best of Ndingo Johwa,  will be made up of  hits that have made Ndingo a force to reckon with over the years. The album will also have a song that Ndingo says he  is playing with an artist from Mali.

He explained that it was an honour for him to work with an artist from West Africa, which is well known for producing acclaimed artists.

He mentioned that at the moment, the tour has been a success and it will see the Kalanga baritone playing in Kasane, Maun and Francistown.

Commenting on his music that is mostly performed in Ikalanga, Ndingo said, 'It is not about understanding the language but enjoying the music. Today you listen to Oliver Mutukudzi but you don't understand a single word that he is saying. I sing in Kalanga, which is one of our national languages, and people like my music. Music has no language barriers. It is a feeling,' said Johwa in an interview with Showtime.