Story by Silibaziso Dlodlo
ECOBANK Zimbabwe hosted its inaugural Legends Night in Bulawayo Saturday evening, bringing together celebrated musicians and cultural icons in an event designed to honour their contribution to Zimbabwe’s arts industry.
The event, which attracted legendary performers and industry stakeholders, was dedicated to recognising artists whose music and artistry continue to shape Zimbabwe’s cultural identity while preserving their legacy for future generations.
Artists who attended the event expressed gratitude for being recognised during their lifetime, describing the initiative as a significant milestone for the country’s creative sector.
“The event was amazing; it was beautiful. This event really speaks volumes, especially to us musicians who have been in this industry for the past 20 years, to be celebrated while we are still alive,” said artist Sandra Ndebele.
Fellow musician Jeys Marabini also welcomed the recognition.
“I am very excited to be chosen in this programme, to be called a Zimbabwean legend, to be honoured and respected while I am still alive and seeing it for myself,” he said.
Cool Crooners member George Salimu said the initiative was long overdue.
“We are excited to be here at the Legends Night because many times recognition comes when someone is no longer alive. We started music a long time ago and there was nothing like what is happening here,” he said.
Beyond celebrating the artists, organisers said the initiative seeks to preserve Zimbabwe’s musical heritage and ensure that legendary voices remain relevant and continue to inspire future generations.
Ecobank Zimbabwe Senior Executive in the Managing Director’s Office, Mr Michael Dengwani, said the programme was aimed at keeping the country’s rich musical legacy alive.
“The reason why we came up with the Legends Night is to ensure that the music produced by our legendary musicians, both those who are still alive and those who have passed on, remains alive and relevant to our society as Zimbabweans and as Africans. We want to keep that music alive,” he said.
The inaugural Legends Night ended on a high note, with artists and audiences calling for continued investment in celebrating living legends and preserving Zimbabwe’s rich artistic heritage.
