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Bongani Ndlovu, Showbiz Correspondent
ARTISTES billed to perform at the UGodlwayo Yithi Music Festival that is being organised by Jeys Marabini this weekend have come out in support of the event saying they are behind the veteran artiste’s effort.

Now in its second edition, the festival meant to celebrate those who grew up or live in Filabusi, will once again be held at the Filabusi Community Hall this Saturday.

Imbube crew Indosakusa: The Morning Star, Khuxxman, Hwabaraty, Ndwangu, Bhamuza, Bheki Mageza, Gospel Diva and the Sisters of Paradise, Kwejani Band, Gaz’elimnyama, Iqhathanzipho, Insiza Express and Iyasa are some of the artistes billed to perform.

Indosakusa: The Morning Star leader Oscar Siziba said the group, which is fresh from launching their album in South Africa, was ready to support Jeys.

“Such festivals should be supported as much as possible because they’re ours and unite local artistes. Also, the festival promotes and stands for our culture, especially the people of Matabeleland South,” Siziba said.

He said fans of the group should expect a polished, energetic and harmonious act from them.

Another artiste who will be performing, Thuts from Harsh Touch Entertainment, said performing with Jeys was an honour as he grew up in Filabusi’s Mahole area.

“I grew up koGodlwayo, eMahole region so performing with legends such as Jeys Marabini is just a blessing. I’ve got an album Wakhal’umantengwane Kasifuni’bumbulu that I’ll share with the people of Filabusi on the day,” said Thuts.

Maskandi artiste Bheki Mageza called for the whole of Filabusi and those from outside to attend the festival in their numbers.

Last year, the festival, a brainchild of Jeys Marabini, was fairly attended with the artiste commending the Filabusi community for supporting him.

This year, he said, he was anticipating a much bigger crowd with tickets to the event pegged at $5 before 10PM and $8 afterwards.

He said preparations were going on well.

“We’re doing final touch ups at the venue, but everything is set. All we’re waiting for is Saturday and that people pack the venue,” said Jeys.

He said the festival promises to be a special night for fans and musicians alike.

“It’ll be a rare night where musicians from in and outside Filabusi will come together to perform for the masses there. It promises to be a great night for both fans and the musicians who will either perform or grace the event.”

If all goes according to plan, Jeys wants to use this event as a tool to bring tourists to Filabusi, just like what Justice Maphosa did with the Gwanda Gospel Music Festival which now attracts thousands of people to Gwanda annually.