One of legendary Jamaican roots-reggae artists, Burning Spear, who is billed to perform this weekend at Civo Stadium in Lilongwe as part of his “One People Tour Africa” tour, will arrive on Thursday.
The 79-year-old comes to Malawi courtesy of Sound Addicts and Born African after performing in other African countries such as at Glamis Arena in Harare, Zimbabwe and South Africa’s Emperor’s Palace in Johannesburg and Mhufi Wines Farm in Cape Town.
Both in Zimbabwe and South Africa the revered reggae icon was given a astounding reception by the Rastafarian community, music fans and promoters.
Likewise, Shadreck Kalukusha one of the organisers of the Malawi show said all is set to host the legendary reggae.
He said they will start with a ‘Meet and Greet’ event on Friday night at Sunbird Capital before the main show on Saturday.
Born Winston Rodney OD on March 1, 1945, Burning Spear, is a Rastafarian and Jamaican roots reggae singer-songwriter, vocalist, and musician famed for songs like ‘Chant Down Babylon’, ‘African Teacher’ and ‘Marcus Garvey’, just to mention a few.
During his tour he is expected to be supported by Malawian artists in the regions of Skeffa Chimoto, Black Missionaries Band, Born African, Sangie, Sean Morgan, Zembani Band and many others.
Being his maiden tour of Malawi, arts commentators have tipped businesses to capitalize on Burning Spear’s visit to maximize their brands.
Herbert Changilanga, a former editor and arts journalist of National Publications Limited (NPL, said that if the Burning Spear outing materialises, it will be the biggest live music show in many years, if not ever.
“Hotels and the Tourism Industry, throw your best dart. Give him a complimentary room or lounge and name it after him. The Burning Lounge, The Spear Spectre. Good business. Also make him his best dish and customise it as a menu item. I want a Spear Breakfast or Sundowner at Sunbird,” tipped Changilanga.
He also tipped NGOs to utilise Burning in their advocacy campaigns.
