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Hugh Masekela

SOUTH Africa jazz guru Hugh Masekela believes Ammara Brown, an afro-pop musician, has the potential to penetrate the international market.

Masekela, who was in Nyanga over the weekend, showered praises on Brown after her outstanding performance at Montclair Resort and Casino.

“She’s amazing. I’d not seen her on stage with her band and I’m impressed. Ammara has talent and she’ll go places if she maintains this act,” said Masekela.

“She has the energy and unique stage presence. Her choreography is outstanding. I’m happy Zimbabwe is producing musicians that can penetrate the international market.”

Speaking to Brown backstage, Masekela urged her to avail her acts on the international market to show the world her potential.

“You should record such performances and upload the videos on the Internet,” he told Brown.

“Anyone who knows good art will like that choreography. You’ve the potential to become an international star and I can assure you that international promoters will come after you if they see such an act.”

Masekela was a guest performer at the show that was headlined by Oliver Mtukudzi. He featured on Mtukudzi’s act for a duet titled Tapera.

Ammara was the first one to perform at the show, which served as her debut appearance in Nyanga. So good was her act that it wowed Masekela and hundreds of fans that thronged the place. In addition to her songs, the songstress performed her late father Andy’s classics.

Her song Kure Kure — originally a duet with Jah Prayzah — was the crowd’s favourite, while her father’s Mawere Kongonya, which closed her act sealed the outstanding performance.

After the show, Brown said: “It’s always exciting to share the stage with great musicians like uncle Tuku and Masekela. They inspire young generations with their expertise and experience.

“I’ll take Masekela’s advice because I believe he’s seen it all in the music industry and knows very well how to rate performances and encourage young musicians like myself. I’m honoured to get such advice from a veteran.” — Harare Bureau/Showbiz Reporter.