Nhapitapi for Jam Session
By Silence Charumbira
Showbiz Editor
He might be unknown to the majority of music followers around, but that is simply because of his background role as a drummer in previous years yet Percy Masendeke is raring to go.
Masendeke will make his maiden appearance with his own outfit Nhapitapi Express at the Jam Session hosted each Monday at City Sports Bar in the capital.
Having played with several bands among them Zebra Kings, Dzimbahwe Mbira Group, Forster Mukwevo and Gift Amuli; his confidence and drive denote utter determination.
With just one album under his belt and a few singles, Masendeke said he is itching to perform at the event that has become the single avenue for upcoming artistes to market themselves to prospective promoters and fans.
“I am just hoping that it being a Monday I will be able to get a prime slot to perform. I really cannot wait for the opportunity. The Jam Session is the only platform left for artistes like me to get exposure and I really cherish the chance that I have to prove my worth,” he said.
A father of three, Masendeke released his debut album in 2013 and feels it did not get the preferred treatment from radio particularly because it did not make it into the perennial Top 20.
“I have one album titled Simba Mukaka which apparently got good reviews from listeners but not from radio DJs. Fans would call me each time that the music was played on radio but it did not translate to success on the charts,” he said.
“I get solace though from the fact that tracks like Mudzimai Wangu, Siya Waoneka and Tezvara did really well getting airplay with the other one Mukondombera being played during the International Conference on Aids and STIs in Africa (Icasa),” said Masendeke.
“But here is another chance however to break the mainstream music market so we hope it will be for the best and we will treat it likewise.”
