Zimbabwe Celebrates International Jazz Day with an Unforgettable Live Concert at the Zimbabwe German Society

Jazz enthusiasts gathered in droves recently for a spectacular celebration of International Jazz Day at the Zimbabwe German Society. The event, marking the 14th global anniversary of the iconic celebration, featured a carefully curated lineup of both emerging and established artists, creating an unforgettable evening of live music. As the world celebrated this musical genre, Zimbabwe’s vibrant jazz scene took center stage, once again showcasing its deep-rooted love for the genre.

A Global Celebration of Jazz

International Jazz Day, a global event dedicated to the appreciation and celebration of jazz music, saw a variety of festivities unfold around the world. From educational programs and workshops to concerts and music sessions, the celebrations culminated in an all-star global concert held at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The Zimbabwe chapter of this global initiative, now in its second year, has become a key player in the country’s music scene, bringing together local jazz lovers and talented musicians alike.

The event was organized by renowned guitarist Josh Meck, who was also the driving force behind the inaugural Zimbabwe celebration last year. This year’s edition saw businessman and jazz patron Stephen Margolis gracing the event as the guest of honor, lending his support to the initiative.

A Night of Musical Brilliance

The evening began with an inspiring solo acoustic guitar performance by Wevhu, setting the stage for what was to come. Soon after, Josh Meck took to the stage, donning a sleek blue suit and commanding the attention of the audience with his impressive bass guitar skills. Supported by his regular band members—Tichaona Muchemwa (percussion), Brian Ziko (drums), Exodus Chauke (keyboard), and Nothando Mhlanga (backing vocals and shakers)—the quintet brought the audience to their feet with their collective artistry.

Meck’s mastery over the bass guitar was immediately evident, as he effortlessly alternated between his own performances and supporting fellow artists. One standout moment came with his performance of “I Have a Vision,” a song about unity and racial tolerance, where the audience sang along in perfect harmony, swaying to the rhythm. The intimate connection between Meck and the crowd only deepened as he transitioned from bass to acoustic guitar for the song “Mwana Wembeva,” with Exodus Chauke’s keyboard providing rumbling bass lines that added a distinctive touch to the piece.

A Tribute to Zimbabwe’s Jazz Talent

The concert was a celebration not only of international jazz but also of Zimbabwe’s rich jazz talent. Nothando Mhlanga, one of the standout performers, captivated the audience with her heartfelt performance of “City Lights,” a song inspired by her travels and the beautiful scenery she encountered. She shared with the crowd her personal connection to the song, particularly the emotional impact of her experiences during night drives through locations like Christmas Pass.

Adding an artistic dimension to the evening, visual artist Josh Chaps K live-painted throughout the performance, creating a visual counterpart to the music. The finished artwork was auctioned off for US$100, highlighting the collaboration between music and visual arts that has become a hallmark of the International Jazz Day celebrations in Zimbabwe.

Performances that Left a Lasting Impact

Mono Mukundu also brought his unique style to the stage, inviting Derrick Mpofu for a collaborative guitar performance that had the audience cheering. Mukundu’s powerful solo performance of “Ndapedzakushanda,” a poignant song dedicated to workers, struck a chord with many. The lyrics, written in Shona, were a heartfelt plea from a worker to their employer, highlighting the often-unappreciated efforts of the workforce.

One of the most emotionally charged moments of the night came when Patience Musa, returning to the stage after a five-year hiatus, performed for the first time in years. Musa shared with the crowd how deeply emotional it was for her to return to the stage, describing the experience as “healing, energizing, and above all, affirming.” Her performance was a testament to the power of music to reignite the passion and spirit of performers and audience alike.

The Enduring Power of Jazz in Zimbabwe

The 2025 Zimbabwe celebration of International Jazz Day proved once again that jazz holds a special place in the hearts of many Zimbabweans. With its powerful mix of emotional depth, cultural expression, and sheer musicality, the event was a resounding success, solidifying the country’s growing reputation as a key hub for jazz in Africa.

For jazz lovers and musicians alike, the night was a reminder of the transformative power of music—a reminder that, no matter where you come from, music has the ability to unite, heal, and inspire. Zimbabwe’s growing jazz scene is proof of this, and with events like International Jazz Day, it’s clear that Zimbabwe will continue to play an essential role in the global jazz community for years to come.