“A Rising Star”

“A Rising Star”

By Jackie Chibamu

As Zim dancehall continues to be the talk on everyone’s lips nationwide, especially after the Summer Fiesta that took place over a week ago promoted by Digital 1 Int that had a line-up of 7 of the best artists out of Zimbabwe. Amongst it all is what I personally call a “Star in the Making”, he goes by the stage name of “Qounfuzed”. He recently made press after punching a fellow dancehall artist “Seh  Calaz” at a show following a misunderstanding. He later on apologized to his fans for his behaviour and they made peace for the incident.

At just the tender age of 21 Qounfuzed’s, real name” Macdonald Sheldon” is already starting to make noise in the Zimdancehall scene as a “Rising Star”, with his hit song “Ndakusuwa” being the favourite of his fans and the most played at the moment.  When I first heard his music last year, I knew that his future in Zimdancehall was well bright. He has grown from being just an ordinary ZimDancehall artist into a “Rising Super Star”. His lyrics show growth from when he first started at a tender age of 16.

Labelled as the “King of Style” because of always looking smart at all times, Qounfuzed has been working very hard lately which is getting him recognition from all over the world. His management has been doing a great job so far in making sure that his talent is noticed and appreciated.  As I normally do, I had to get in touch with this young man and this is what he had to say about himself. 

JC : Hey Qounfuzed , how are you doing today?

Q : I am doing very well Jackie , How are you?

JC : I am great thank you. 

 JC :Tell us who Qounfuzed is?

Q : My real name is McDonald Sheldon I am the First Son in a family of 2 boys and 1 girl

JC :How did you come up with the name Qounfuzed?

Q :Qounfuzed simply means a “Conscious fused mind or person” which is what I am.

JC :How long have you been singing Zim Dancehall? And why Dancehall?

Q : I started recording Zimdancehall professionally in 2008. I chose Zimdancehall 

because I figured that is where I belong and that is where my strength is and as you can see I am on the rise at the moment. 

JC: What was your big break?

Q: The collaboration with Freeman in 2011 on a track called “Chimbovarega” it was the rise of “Qounfuzed”.

JC : What inspires your music?

Q : Life and everyday experiences.

JC : Any albums so far?

Q: I released my 1st album in 2011 called “KING OF STYLE which featured Freeman and I am currently working on my 2nd .

JC :  Who do you look up to?

Q : I look up to my mum and close friends. They motivate and support me.

JC : When did you first perform live and how was that experience for you?

Q : First live performance was back in 2008 at a school function...It was really a good thing watching people dance to my music as I performed and the after effects after that also helped me to continue with my music journey.

JC : Your lyrics are rich. Where do you get them from??

Q : Life as a whole with its surroundings.

JC : Which big artists have you shared the stage with so far?

Q : Mr Vegas, Winky D, Stunner, Freeman, Sulumani Chimbetu.

JC : What are the challenges you are facing as an upcoming ZimDancehall artist?

 Q :  Getting the right music sound quality and video quality...getting everyone to understand the different types of styles I try to bring as an artist each time I release a new track. 

JC : Any regrets so far?

Q :  I don’t regret anything that I have already done ...I only regret what I haven’t done.

JC : What are your thoughts on music in Zimbabwe, especially the Zimdancehall at the moment?

Q : I believe Zimdancehall is the “in” thing right now and is getting to greater heights. It’s a genre, a movement and a way of life. 

JC : What do you thing should be done to improve the industry as it stands?

Q : The Economy should start investing more in the Entertainment industry because It has become a source of income for most people. 

JC : Do you feel that you are getting enough support from the media, fans etc.?

Q : So far I think the media is doing quite a good job I have done a lot of Radio, Tv & Newspaper interviews lately and the fans are also giving great feedback through social medias and live shows.

JC : Where do you see the future of Zimdancehall going and what’s your place there?

Q :  Zimdancehall is going International in no time and obviously I’m going on top ,I have recently managed to get a new management team both locally and internationally and that is a “WOW” moment for me. 

JC : Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

Q : Only God knows but I hope to be better, a good leader and Icon too.

JC : If you were not making music, what would be your choice of career?

Q : Anything that involves Art ...Fashion ...TV.

JC : What do you like to spend your spear time doing?

Q : I like watching TV and hanging out with my crew.

JC : What advice or words of encourage would you give to any upcoming young and talented artists like yourself who want to get into the industry too? 

Q : Hard work pays off ,and Never give up on your talent.

JC : Thank you very much Qounfuzed for taking time to chat with me today.

Q : The pleasure is all mine Jackie, thank you for giving me the opportunity to do so.

This young man no doubt is going places. It brings me great joy to see that our industry is growing into one that has more class as well as value. We are certainly breeding “Super Stars” from our own youths. Keep your eyes peeled for this young man because his future looks really good from where I am standing. To listen to any of his music please follow the links below. www.reverbnation.com/qounfuzedzw and >> https://soundcloud.com/zim-dancehallreggae-music

"CYNTHIA MARE'S MOTHER'S DAY SPECIAL"

Zimbabwe’s darling, and 1 of my dear and talented friends Cynthia Mare, since her album launch in tribute to her late mother Enita Charewa-Chamboko, is back with a joyful Mother’s Day Celebration Event and this time it’s for all the mothers of Zimbabwe. The singer of the hit song Zuva Rimwe (Dai Zvaibvira) along with other hits like Ndokutenda Sei, Pfugama Unamate, Catch Me When I fall, has set out to show appreciation to all mothers by rallying everyone else to do the same. She will partner with companies and individuals who support the movement. She also plans to make this a yearly event.

This upcoming event is on this Mother’s Day, Sunday the 11th of May 2pm -6pm and will be held at the beautiful and tranquil KwaMambo Restaurant, 40 Cork Road, Avondale in Harare. A wonderful V.I.P. three-course lunch will be served together with a themed heartfelt afro centric performance by Cynthia Mare and her band and special free hampers for all the mothers present as their gift towards the special Mother’s Day occasion.
When asked to comment on the occasion, Cynthia Mare urged on the importance of celebrating Mothers Day. She added that she sees this as an opportunity to reflect on the good years she had with her late mother and share in that celebration with other mothers and their families. She encourages people to always give back to their mothers for the great work they do and irreplaceable role they play.
What I personally liked about this particular occasion is that it has been opened to all Zimbabweans including the Diaspora. Those in the Diaspora like myself, can still buy a ticket for loved ones who are in Zimbabwe via PayPal. It’ s not only for the mothers but a family day. The whole family can come out and make their mother, sister, aunt, or guardian feel special. So, this year make it a date with Cynthia Mare in commemorating Mother’s Day in Zimbabwe with love.
INFO
Mother’s Day Celebration Event with a special live performance from Cynthia Mare and full band.
Lavish 3 -course meal
Free hampers for mothers
Sunday 11 May 2014, 2pm-6pm
At KwaMambo Restaurant
Tickets sold in advance only
 $45 per adult.
Tickets available at KwaMambo Restaurant. 40 Cork Road, Avondale.
Call Tytan on +263774426365
KwaMambo restaurant on 04253586
People paying from overseas can pay via the secure paypal on this email:  maremusic2013@gmail.com
Keep in touch with Cynthia Mare on:
www.facebook.com/cynthiamaremusic
www.twitter.com/cynthiamare
www.soundcloud.com/cynthiamare

So there you have it. I know here in the UK we celebrate our mother's day earlier than in Zimbabwe but for most our families are over there. I hope you take this opportunity to treat someone special even in your absents . I for one think that this is a very good event so don't be left behind .

ZIMBABWE TO POSSIBLY HOST "THE MUWOFO WORLD CUP 2016"

When it comes to the things that excite me, music is certainly at the top of the list. When I heard about an Organisation called Muwofo and what they are about, I totally got excited. Just knowing that there is a group of people willing to change the music industry in such a big way certainly puts a smile on my face.

Muwofo is a group of 165 countries, each country is represented by a committee that seeks to unite musicians of all genre’s all over the world. It was formed in 2009 by musicians from all over the world. In Zimbabwe, Muwofo is represented by “The African Prince of Afro-fusion” Que Montana. He has managed to put together a committee and  they are working on making a difference to our music industry as a whole.

The thing that caught my eye most of all is how Muwofo has the interests of the musicians at heart. For so long musicians ,especially in Zimbabwe have no idea about music business, music law and things like that. Muwofo is there to educate its members about these things as well as creating opportunities for artists who are finding it hard to get noticed out there. They also get to train those artists that want to learn a new instrument to enhance their careers. Moreover they  give musicians opportunities to be able to tour internationally at festivals and other big events. Now surely this is something that our music industry needs to keep going. We have a lot of young and very talented artists all over the country but most of them lack guidance, direction as well as resources to become better musicians.

Muwofo is looking to officially launch in Zimbabwe in a couple of months time. The theme this year is “Celebrating Diversity, Celebrating Music”, This, they will most certainly do with a series of events and festivals all over the country, so keep your eyes and ears opened for dates.

The biggest and best news has to be about Zimbabwe possibly hosting the Muwofo World Cup 2016. This is a competition where all  countries come together with their best bands, soloist etc and compete to be crowned the champion . Now for this to happen, we as Zimbabweans have to come together and show our support. This is no doubt a very big opportunity, not just for the music industry but for Zimbabwe as a whole. We want to bring the World Cup 2016 to our motherland.

To find out more information about Muwofo or the World Cup, please feel free to have a look on their website. Applications to become a member or to register for the Music World Cup are still open , just log on to www.muwofo.com and please like their facebook page  https://www.facebook.com/groups/1413239195584931/

"Ella Bvumbe scoops 2 ZAA’s Nominations"

It’s that time again, The time we start shopping for amazing looking frocks, red carpet and everything else that comes with it. Yes! the Zim Achievers Awards 2014. Every year the organizers seem to be elevating the event to a different level. This year I caught up with one of the young ladies who was nominated in 2 categories in these prestigious award.  Ella Bvumbe is a 22 year old young lady who is the owner of HouseofElla ,an online Boutique for women’s wear ,specializing in *Celebrity Bodycon Dresses*. Ella has been nominated for Personality of the year as well as  Innovation. Seeing someone who actually deserves to be nominated is a very good thing. This young lady has been through a lot and excelled despite the odds that were against her. Having her mother diagnosed with cancer left her having to go out and find work at a young age to be able to support herself and her mother. Her mother finally recovered from cancer and is now healthy and well.

HouseOfElla was formed in May 2013 and was nominated Best Online Store by simplesit.com. Her website was re-branded and relaunched on 15th of Feb 2013, It currently has over 80,000 views. Ella is always supportive of other events taking place in the community. As far as these nominations are concerned, no one deserves them better than she does. This young lady has a great personality if I must say so myself. She is always pleasant and always smiling. There is never a dull moment with her, always posting encouraging messages on her facebook wall and looks forward to the next day. Ella is currently the reigning 2nd Princess for Miss Zim UK 2013. Her passion is to inspire young people to become whatever they dream of becoming no matter the circumstances . Her hard work and perseverance makes her a great role model for young ladies. This young lady is certainly “Bhundu Certified” in my books. I had a very brief interview with her and this is what she had to say:

Jackie : You have been nominated for 2 awards in the upcoming ZAA’s, please tell us what categories you were nominated for?
Ella : Personality of the Year and Innovation of the Year.

Jackie : How does it make you feel to be recognized for all your hard work?
Ella : When I saw my name under the categories, I was so emotional, I literally cried it felt so good. They were all tears of joy to know that my hard work was being recognized.

Jackie : What has been the inspiration of your achievements so far?
Ella : Believing in myself and my dreams, knowing how much i want this and my goal, I had to motivate myself to accomplish my dreams. My family has supported and believed in me, they never doubted me.

Jackie: As a young lady, what advice or encouragement would you give to other young ladies out there?
Ella : No matter how hard your situation may look or sound, if you have a dream, go for it. Have a faith and a positive mind.

Jackie : What does the future hold for “HouseOfElla”?
Ella : Well to be honest with you I haven’t even started yet, bigger and better things are to come and be prepared for some surprises. HouseofElla will be launching it’s new clothing line soon.

It’s always a pleasure speaking to young ladies who are living their dreams. Having events like these in our community that recognizes and appreciates hard work is an encouraging thing indeed. The award ceremony will be held on the 10th of May in the heart of London. If you have not already voted , please follow the link below and cast your vote. Lets keep encouraging and supporting these young people in our communities to keep shining brighter as they are the future.

http://www.zimachievers.com/nominees/

"Don't Give Up"

As I am celebrating reaching 500 page views today, I would like once again to express my gratitude to all of you for taking time to read my blog. Today I would like to share with you a piece of writing that always gets me back up in those moments when it seems like there is no light at the end of the tunnel. Being a single mother can be very difficult and hard sometimes. I always get down on my knees and put all to Him as He is the creator of all. He always comes through and makes a way were there seems to be no way. I hope this piece will inspire someone and encourage them to keep going even when it seems like all is lost. 

Keep Believing in Yourself

There may be days when you get up in the morning and things aren't

the way you hoped they would be.

That's when you have to tell yourself that things will get better.

There are times when people disappoint you and let you down.

But those are the times when you must remind yourself to trust 

your own judgement and opinions, to keep your life focused on 

believing in yourself.

There will be challenges to face and changes to make in your life,

and it is up to you to accept them.

Constantly keep yourself headed in the right direction for you.

It may not be easy at times, but in those times of struggle you will 

find a stronger sense of who you are.

So when the days come that are filled with frustration and

 unexpected responsibilities,remember to believe in yourself 

and all you want your life to be.

Because the challenges will only help you to find the goals 

that you know are meant to come true for you.

Over the years I have learnt to always keep my head above the water and believe that things will get better no matter what i might be going through. I always have faith and trust in the Lord because he will never put me in a place were he can not protect me. I always believe that every thing I go through in life is for a reason and in the end it all works out. So what ever you might be going through right now , just know that it will pass. Believe in your abilities and trust God to do his part.

The Queen of my world

Today is indeed a very special day in our family reason being that, this is the day our mother entered into this world 55 years ago. Celebrating birthday's is something that we have always taken serious in our family. She is always the one running around making sure that year in and year out, every birthday is accounted for. It's such a blessing having a mother like mine I tell you. I am the third born in  a family of four , two girls and two boys I being the youngest of the girls. We all have been close to both parents growing up but mostly our mother. All four of us are similar to her in different ways. 

When I say that my mother is 1 in a million , I literally mean 1 in a million. I have never come across a woman like her and I doubt I will. They don't turn out like that anymore these days, not as original anyway. I remember when we were growing up in Sunningdale 1 in Harare, my dad being the eldest of the boys in his family. He was working at Air Zimbabwe and running his welding business on the side which made him the bread winner of the entire family. I never quite understood why it was like that, that relatives would always come to our house and my mother would always welcome them with a smile . We on the other hand were not too happy as we knew that it meant sharing pretty much everything with them, especially if we were of  the same age as them. It didn't help much that we lived so near to town so everyone who was coming from anywhere would pass by  and always stay a day or two. Looking at it as I matured into a woman and had my own home, what my mother installed in us back then was something that has shaped all four of us into caring individuals. I got so used to always having people around that even up to now I always welcome people into my home with a smile. She would always tell us as we were growing up that, if someone comes to you in need of your help , you should do what you can because sometimes that is the way that God wants to bless you.

My mother's profession is a Tailor, when we were still in Zimbabwe she used to work for Topic and run a business from home as well. She would take time off and go to Mauritius to sell some things there and ones they were bought she would buy things to bring back and sell. We would sometimes go with her if it was during the school holidays. For us it would certainly be a holiday and we would enjoy the amazing beaches in Mauritius while she is busy meeting her customers.  Working hard was always a must with her. She would always say that "nothing comes from laziness, God will always bless the work of your hands". So I learnt how to work using my hands. In this country we are in, we all know that nothing comes easy , you have got to get up and go to keep a roof over your head and food on the table. I thank her for installing that in me, I know had work pays off always.

When people say they are Angels here on earth , I totally believe it because I was raised by one. My mother's heart is totally amazing, every day I pray to have a heart like that. Always smiling , always forgiving, always thinking of others before self.She always has time for all of us despite what is going on in her own life. A very calm and humble person that you can not help but fall in love with the minute you meet her.

A grandmother of 7, she has youth of someone barely 40 years old. I pray I can look that young at her age, but then they do say that , if you want to know how one looks when they are older you should look at the mother, so I think i will be ok..loool..  Her faith and trust in God has helped me grow spiritually too, church is very important to my mother. I go to her many times with all these plans and ideas of things I want to do and she always says to me" in all you do, always make a covenant with God, let him be in the center of it all". She is contently sending me bible verses to read and we always pray together. Her life to me is a living testimony of God's greatness. I could write a book about her and it would certainly make a good read. 

As I finish off my post for today I would like to wish "The Queen of my World" my dear mother Naome Chibamu a very Happy Birthday. May the Lord continue to give you good health, may he grant all the desires of your heart, may he continue to let his light shine bright upon you . I love you loads and have an amazing day because that is what you deserve.    

Mee.....

It has taken me a whole year to get my writing skills back to play. It's been a while since I did any writing of any sort so I maybe a bit rusty to start with .I've always been known for writing articles about entertainment and conducting interviews and so fourth. My blog is going to be different from my usual, this will be my platform to do some free writing . It will mainly contain my thoughts, feeling ,experiences etc. I am looking forward to sharing with you all in the hopes that what I write on here will change someone's life one way or another.  

As I sit here with my laptop on my lap, I am trying to figure out where to begin. Do I start by introducing myself, or do I just get in there and start writing? Both of those things right now seem to be ideal so I will go ahead and do a bit of both. My name is Jackie Chibamu , I am 32 years old and a proud single mother of 2 boys aged 9&7 . I believe that life is too short to sit back and let your dreams pass you by. I am a strong believe in getting up every morning and going for what I want out of life. Giving up is not an option for me, I would rather try my best and fail, than to just sit there not knowing if I could have made it or not. As I warm up to all this , u will get to know much more about me and the things that make me the person I am. This journey that we are embarking on together will certainly be a great experience for everyone involved. That's all for now.... but before I go , I just want to say that " Be fearless, be brave,be bold and love yourself, no one can do a better job of that more than you can".