Excitement as Burning Spear comes to Malawi
Musicians and promoters have expressed excitement with the coming to Malawi of reggae music legend Burning Spear to perform.
The 79 years-old artist, real name Winston Rodney OD, has had a career spanning over five decades.
His latest 29th album No Destroyer released in 2023 came 15 years after he released Jah is Real in 2008. His first album Studio One Presents Burning Spear was released in 1973.
The Marcus Garvey singer will perform at an event jointly organised and promoted by Sound Addicts Live and System Club at a venue to be communicated.
Sound Addicts Live sponsorship manager Peter Bodole said Spear’s performance is part of the artist’s African tour as the organising team wants to ride on the advantage of the existing schedule across Africa.
He said: “We agreed to host the event when Spears team approached us given the artist fan base in Malawi. We are confident of a successful event. We will soon finalise details, including the venue and lineup, to deliver the best possible experience for the audience.”
The tour, which is dubbed One People Africa Tour, will see the artist perform in countries such as Zambia, Zimbabwe and South Africa.
Various local artists have relished the opportunity to witness a live performance by one of reggae’s revered figures, citing his golden era which has influenced generations.
Black Missionaries frontman Anjiru Fumulani said: “As a reggae music group, we cannot overemphasise the inspiration Spear has brought to the music journey. To have him perform in Malawi is a huge honour.”
Veteran local musician Ben Mankhamba added: “This is a must-attend show for anyone who loves music, including the older generation because this legend has been blessing us with his music since way back. Having seen him perform in the UK a few years back, I can attest that this will be one of the greatest and historic performances ever in Malawi,”
Reggae ambassador Charles Sinetre is also excited with the coming of the reggae icon.
“Burning Spear is legendary and his coming is important to the Malawi reggae musicians and fanatics as it strengthens their love for reggae music. It will also unite people of all walks of life, from Africa to other continents,” he added.
Burning Spear has won two grammy Awards for best reggae album in 2000 called Calling Rastafari and 2009 for Jah Is Real. He has received nominations for a total of 12 granny awards.
