Veteran singer and guitarist Giddes Chalamanda’s dream of visiting United States of America (USA) will come into fruition in July.
The musician in his song ‘Buffalo Soldier,’ which he composed long time ago and claims reggae maestro Bob Marley stole it from him, said if he had much money, he would visit America.
Giddes says in the song that he had heard so much about America including “that everyone there is very rich.”
It is in this vein that some members decided to come together under the Giddes’ Coming to America project to realise the musicians’ dream of seeing America.
The move has seen several well-wishers coming forward and supporting the project with the latest being fundraising shows which started last weekend at Sunbird Mount Soche in Blantyre.
Emmanuel Maliro, who was the director of ceremonies in the Blantyre show, said yesterday that they were happy with the support they received.
“In 1974, Giddes had a dream that if he had enough money, he would go to America. Now, in Malawi we have a culture of honouring people when they are dead,” said Maliro.
He said the group of young entrepreneurs led by their patron Mayor of the City of Blantyre Noel Chalamanda decided to honour Giddes while he is alive.
“Giddes is probably the only surviving and active true legend Malawi has ever had. He has remained true to his music and he is a true icon. So we are thankful that people have come up to join us in this project,” said Maliro, who is also the group’s spokesperson.
He said during the fundraising show in Blantyre which saw performances from Giddes, Edgar ndi Davis Band and Patience Namadingo, Mikes Trading Mike Chilewe donated an air ticket and some upkeep money.
He also revealed that Mike Mlombwa of Countrywide Car Hire donated K1 million.
Chairperson of the grouping Wilkins Mijiga said that the donations will not be used to lavish Giddes or any of the band members but will be put to good use to create a positive image for Malawi.
He also said that it is hoped that in America the artists will solicit support for elderly people back home.
From Blantyre, the fundraising concert goes to Capital Hotel in Lilongwe this Saturday and then on March 26, 2016 the show goes to Gymkhana Club in Zomba.
According to Maliro, the veteran musician is expected to perform during this year’s Malawi Independence celebrations in Washington DC on July 6.
He will also perform in two more shows in Indiana.
Giddes said yesterday that he is happy that the dream of visiting USA has now come up and hailed well -wishers for the support.
The 85-year- old musician famed for hits such as ‘Liny,’ and ‘Che Meli,’ is still going strong and continues to offer electric performances although with his old age, he is now slowly losing his strong voice.
The musician, who at one-time used to perform with his son Cliff, has insisted that he will continue to sing as long as he is alive.
“Music is my passion and I will continue to sing as long as I am alive and healthy,” said Giddes, who used to be a boxer in the past years before he moved to music.
Edgar ndi Davis Band as well as Namadingo will also be part of the USA tour.
‘We are delighted to be a part of this historic tour where we will sell our country and display our rich tradition as Malawi will be celebrating 52 years of independence. We are doing this for Giddes and for our country,” said singer and guitarist Davis Njobvu, who called for more support.
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