Soul Jah Love makes money from the grave
Dennis Chimanzi TWO years after his death, Soul Jah Love — a hero and award-winning musician — who was one of the pioneers of Zimdancehall, is set to earn money from the grave.
This follows a decision by corporate sponsors, music producers and the late singer’s estate to release and market the “Pamamonya Ipapo” hitmaker’s unreleased songs.
“So far, we have four recording studios that have confirmed they have the unreleased projects of the late chanter, namely, Chillspot Records, DKT, Sunshine Records and Stormyard Studio,” said the vastly experienced Jive Zimbabwe director, Benjamin “Benjy” Nyandoro.
According to Nyandoro — who, at one point, was the late Soul Jah Love’s manager — the recording studios are cooperating with them and are keen on unleashing the songs.
“I am happy to say that plans to release and market Soul Jah Love’s unreleased songs are going smoothly.
“All the stakeholders, among them the late singer’s family and music producers, are determined to make sure the music is procedurally released,” he said.
Proceeds from the sale of the late chanter’s music will benefit his family, through his estate.
A music show in memory of the late singer, dubbed “Soul Jah Love Memorial Concert”, will be held on December 9 at Padziva Camp and Caravan in Harare’s Dzivaresekwa suburb.
According to the organisers of the show, the main objective is to raise funds that will go towards the acquisition of a tombstone that will be placed at the grave of the late multi-hitmaker.
In the event that there are surplus funds, they will be given to Soul Jah Love’s family.
Among the artistes who will perform at the show are Seh Calaz, Blot, Tocky Vibes, Silent Killer, Kinna, Ras Caleb, Hwindi President and Killer T.
Tocky Vibes said he is ready for the December show.
“This is not about money. I can even perform for free. Soul Jah Love did a lot for Zimdancehall and performing at this show is one of the many ways through which I can show my appreciation for what he did for the genre,” he said.
Mr Fredrick Manyangarirwa, a lawyer handling Soul Jah Love’s estate, said the late musician’s family is set to benefit financially from the talent of the departed artiste.
“We roped in Benjamin Nyandoro, who is vastly experienced in issues to do with the music industry. I am confident we are going to work with him and start generating money for Soul Jah Love’s estate,” said the lawyer.