Tsungai Tsikirai and her band
BY NEWSSPACEZIM WRITER
Tsungai Tsikirai shone bright on stage with her band at the inaugural Doek and Slay UK edition, hosted by Event Hulks at Colesdale Farm in London, last Saturday.
The songstress wowed the audience with her powerful vocals, performing tunes from her childhood and getting the crowd dancing and singing along to hits like Mhondoro/Dzinomwa, Nhemamsasa, and Hautengwe – songs her grandmother taught her and which feature on her latest album.
In a heartfelt tribute, Tsikirai paid homage to Busi Ncube, a pioneering Zimbabwean musician who paved the way for women in music.
Having been mentored by Ncube before relocating to the UK, Tsikirai highlighted that “Gratitude is a must and we must celebrate those that inspire us”.
Tsikirai’s fans have affectionately dubbed her the “African Queen” after her album launch in Harare earlier this year.
The Doek and Slay UK lineup was impressive, featuring Feli Nandi, Trevor Dongo, Tocky Vibes, Delroy Shewe, Intotal Band, and Tsikirai.
The event was made possible by local and international sponsors, including Nyaradzo Group and Remitly, whose efforts have been instrumental in numerous events.
Tsikirai’s all-female frontline, was a celebration of female talent and a nod to the event’s historic significance.
“I wanted to work with these talented ladies to make history and launch Doek and Slay UK in a meaningful way,” she said.
The audience loved her set, which brought a unique energy to the event.
As a cultural ambassador, Tsikirai uses her music and dance to share stories about Zimbabwe and Southern Africa, while raising awareness about mental health and social issues.
Her recent trip to Washington saw her deliver music, dance, and language workshops at Central Washington University, hosted by the Zimfest USA organisation
Looking ahead, Tsikirai will host Mabiko: Celebrate Africa on November 1st at the Bicester Hotel Golf and Spa. The annual end-of-year party will feature African fashion, food, and live music, including soukous, marimba, imbube, and Afro-Jazz.
