United States-based Zimbabwean music legend Lovemore "Majaivana" Tshuma has rejected an invitation to perform at Highlanders' centenary celebrations, declaring that he is permanently retired and will never perform in Zimbabwe again. His decision has ended speculation that the celebrated musician could make a surprise appearance during the Bulawayo football giants' musical extravaganza scheduled for October 31. Majaivana's rejection was confirmed by Highlanders centenary entertainment committee member Ezra "Tshisa" Sibanda.
According to Sibanda, Majaivana made his position unequivocally clear during their conversation, stating that he would not perform in Zimbabwe ever again. Sibanda expressed that Highlanders supporters had hoped "Magee", as Majaivana is affectionately known, might be persuaded to return for the club's historic 100th anniversary celebrations due to his enduring connection to Bulawayo and Bosso culture. However, Majaivana's decision has dashed these hopes.
Majaivana has been away from the stage for more than two decades and has repeatedly rejected attempts by promoters, fellow musicians, and admirers to persuade him to perform again. He relocated to the United States in 2000 before retiring from music. Over the years, he has turned down performance offers from Zimbabwe, Britain, South Africa, and other parts of the diaspora. Even the late Oliver Mtukudzi was reportedly unable to persuade him to make a comeback or record a collaboration.
Majaivana's position comes as Zimbabwe celebrates the return of another US-based music legend, Thomas "Mukanya" Mapfumo. Mapfumo arrived at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport on Tuesday after nearly eight years away and was welcomed by government officials and music industry figures. His two private performances connected to the late businessman Wicknell Chivayo did not proceed following Chivayo's death in a helicopter crash.
While Mapfumo has answered calls to return home, Majaivana appears determined that his departure from the stage will remain permanent. The October 31 musical extravaganza will proceed with performances by some of Zimbabwe's leading artists as part of Highlanders' year-long centenary programme. Event organiser and 3D Events director Mduduzi Mdlongwa said the occasion would allow supporters to celebrate the club's journey since its establishment in 1926.
Mdlongwa described Highlanders as an institution deserving of a major celebration during its centenary year. Organisers are expected to announce the participating artists and the full programme as preparations for the celebration progress. Majaivana's absence from the Highlanders celebration will be particularly painful for supporters because his music is deeply woven into the cultural identity of Bulawayo and the history of Bosso.
The centenary show is set to take place on October 31, with Highlanders supporters expected to celebrate the club's 100-year journey. Despite Majaivana's absence, the event is anticipated to be a grand celebration of the club's history and cultural significance. Majaivana's decision to permanently retire from music has been respected by his fans and the music industry.
Key points
- Lovemore Majaivana has permanently retired from music and will not perform in Zimbabwe again.
- Majaivana rejected an invitation to perform at Highlanders' centenary celebrations.
- The decision contrasts with Thomas Mapfumo's return to Zimbabwe after nearly eight years away.
