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Mthabisi Tshuma in Harare

ARTISTS from the Matabeleland region who took part in the recently concluded 13th edition of the Shoko Festival have thanked the organisers for allowing them to take part in the event.

Young, brilliant performers from all over the nation were brought together for the event, and they lived up to the hype with upbeat performances.

The region was well represented by Thandy Dhlana-Jele, MJ Sings, Noluntu J and Aphiwe and Sobancane.Speaking on the sidelines of the opening of the festival on Thursday, all the artistes in separate interviews told Chronicle Showbiz that the event is likely to open more doors for them.

Thandy Dhlana-Jele, who awed fans with a sing along of her track “Inganekwane” said she felt at home with the acceptance by the audience.

“The festival was great in simple terms and l am happy that the audience was singing along throughout my performance which made me feel at home. Harare has greater opportunities since it’s the capital,” said Thandy Dhlana-Jele.

MJ Sings said the Shoko Festival proved that language is not a barrier anymore in this generation before he hinted on moving to Harare if given the chance.

“The country is now open to now experiencing music from all over and now that I’ve witnessed it I’m fired up to serve more. This was one of my best experiences in a foreign turf and the audience fed off the energy and it was all about enjoying good music without being flagged by not having a large following.

“I’m definitely going to be moving around in Harare soon. It’s the capital city of the country and I think it’s also necessary for me to be on the ground there to be able to make major moves and connections,” said MJ Sings.

Noluntu J, who left the crowd in awe with her “Ghost” track lyrics said she was nervous at first but later managed to keep calm and sail through her performance.

“I met a lot of industry people, and gained new experience from the event. I was nervous at first, but the crowd was very warm,” she said.

Aphiwe and Sobancane, through their manager, Handy said there are happy Maskandi music is making inroads countrywide.

“Aphiwe and Sobancane are loved and appreciated in so many places by so many people beyond our region, languages and culture. It was quite interesting to see people singing along to their music. We had so much to learn as well at the event.

“The guys were nervous. Thandy Dhlana gave Aphiwe some words of encouragement before he got in stage. When Sobancane started playing the guitar, Aphiwe got comfortable quiet quickly and matched the bands energy resulting in a beautiful experience,” said Handy.-@mthabisi_mthire