Chris Martin mesmerised by Zimdancehall
By Nigel Pfunde
It appears Jamaican reggae crooner Chris Martin still revels in his experience in Zimbabwe two months down the line.
The talented artiste dazzled fans in Harare in May and his association with Zim Dancehall artistes is still etched in his mind as evidenced in his live interview with a Jamaican broadcaster Nikky Z soon after his performance at this year’s edition of Reggae Sumfest in Montego Bay, Jamaica.
Reggae Sumfest was held from July 17 to July 23.
Martin told Nicky that he was mesmerised by Zim Dancehall.
“Zimbabwe’s version of dancehall is very nice, it’s an up-tempo beat and I was impressed when an artiste there told me that my music inspired him and he called me “mambo” meaning king. He gave me life and energy by appreciating my craft and I said to myself I want to rush into the studio,” said Martin.
The chemical engineering drop out also adopted Shona name and he even told his Jamaican interviewer about how proud he was with the new name.
“Oh my God I didn’t tell you about my Zimbabwean name. It’s Tinashe Tatenda Martin meaning something to do with giving thanks and being blessed,” said the ecstatic Martin.
Meanwhile, during Martin stay he hinted on possible collaborations with local artistes and his public endorsement of Zimdancehall on the sidelines of Jamaica’s premier reggae festival shows his genuine commitment.
Beenie Man, Busy Signal, Tommy Lee all performed the final night was closed by Luciano.
Zim dancehall also got another international boost when rising Jamaican artiste D Medz performed on Jusa riddim produced by Tawanda ‘Jusa Dementor’ Sibotshiwe and Simukai ‘ Abra Simmz’ Mandizvidza for Abra Records
