Story by Grace Sibanda

SEASONED musician Jeys Marabini has embarked on a programme meant to ensure the longevity of the roots musical genre by empowering youths with knowledge and resources.

Riding on a career spanning three decades which includes performances with renowned musicians such as the late Oliver Mtukudzi, Freddy Gwala and the late Zahara, among others, veteran Afro-jazz musician Jeys Marabini has become a beacon of hope for upcoming artists.

“I have been in the music scene for 7 years and sometimes it seems like things will not work out but after seeing Bro Jeys going this far after so many years gives me hope to continue with my craft. I have seen how people appreciate our music and it makes me go higher,” said a young artist.

“To see a veteran musician like Jeys Marabini supporting us like this makes us carry on. We come here to his studio and record from here and I have 2 albums that I have released all from here, it is help from big artists like him that we will make sure that this music does not die,” said another.

Having returned from a successful tour in the United Kingdom, Marabini says the reception he got confirms the prowess of Zimbabwean artists.

“Our Zimbabwean music knows no bounds, it resonates with people from different countries and backgrounds. I am encouraging young artists to take their craft seriously even though they may feel like things are not going well, but there is always a silver lining at the end of the tunnel, audiences out there want more of our original Zimbabwean music, so I am passing the torch to young artists to not let the music fade away.”

The combination of the guitar and drum has mesmerised young artists who can only but mimic the sound of their hero to stardom.