William "Kachule" Dangirwa, a 43-year-old father of four, is currently moulding bricks to earn a living after leaving Alick Macheso's Orchestra Mberikwazvo. He claims that life has become difficult since he left the band, where he used to receive money from fans on stage and was paid well. Dangirwa expressed his desire to return to the band, citing that he misses performing with the sungura group.
According to Dangirwa, his departure from the band was due to health problems, specifically swollen feet. He suspects that witchcraft might have been involved but provides no evidence. His account differs from the version given by Macheso's management, which states that Dangirwa left voluntarily and his position has been filled.
Dangirwa described Alick Macheso as a father figure who gave him an opportunity in the band. He has contacted the group's management about returning but is still waiting for an answer. Currently based in Harare with his family, Dangirwa sees few opportunities in his rural home of Rusape and is struggling to make ends meet.
Dangirwa's appeal highlights the difficult transition some performers face after leaving established music groups. He is willing to accept food assistance from members of the public and appeals to Macheso to give him another chance. Macheso has welcomed former bandmates back in the past, but a return is never guaranteed.
A senior member of Macheso's management disputes Dangirwa's account, stating that the dancer left of his own accord and was not fired or demoted. The representative says management was surprised by his decision but has since filled his position, and the band has moved on with no vacancy for him.
This is not the first instance of a former Orchestra Mberikwazvo member facing difficulties after leaving the band. In 2012, dancer Franco "Slomo" Dhaka and guitarist Noel Nyazanda moved to Sulumani Chimbetu's Orchestra Dendera Kings due to reported disputes over pay and working conditions. However, Nyazanda, along with other members, later returned to Macheso's band.
The history shows that former members have sometimes been welcomed back, although a return has not been automatic. In Kachule's case, management says his former position has already been filled. For now, Dangirwa says he wants to return to the band, but it remains to be seen if Macheso's management will consider his appeal.
Key points
- William "Kachule" Dangirwa, a former dancer of Alick Macheso's Orchestra Mberikwazvo, is struggling to make ends meet after leaving the band and is appealing to rejoin.
- Dangirwa's account of leaving the band differs from Macheso's management, which states that he left voluntarily.
- Former Orchestra Mberikwazvo members have faced difficulties after leaving the band, but some have been welcomed back.
