Jeys Marabini and Kozekulunge Band Arrive in Austria Ahead of Exciting European Tour
Award-winning Zimbabwean jazz and marabi musician Jeys Marabini and his Kozekulunge Band have arrived in Vienna, Austria, ahead of an eagerly anticipated month-long European tour that promises to showcase the richness of Zimbabwean music to international audiences. The tour officially begins in Germany on July 25 before continuing through Austria and the Czech Republic with a series of live performances and cultural exchange activities. The celebrated Ezinangeni hit-maker and his band departed Bulawayo on Tuesday, marking the beginning of another important chapter in their growing international journey. Their latest European tour highlights the increasing global appreciation for Zimbabwe’s diverse musical traditions and the unique sound that Marabini has developed throughout his career. Fans across Europe are expected to experience a blend of authentic African rhythms, storytelling and energetic stage performances that have earned the musician widespread recognition.
Beyond entertaining audiences, the European tour carries a broader cultural mission that reflects Marabini’s commitment to preserving and promoting Zimbabwean heritage. Alongside their scheduled concerts, the Kozekulunge Band will conduct workshops designed to introduce European communities to Zimbabwean musical traditions, instruments and performance styles. These interactive sessions will create opportunities for cultural exchange, allowing participants to gain a deeper understanding of African music while engaging directly with experienced performers. Such initiatives strengthen cultural connections between Zimbabwe and Europe by encouraging dialogue through music, education and artistic collaboration. The workshops also demonstrate that the band’s visit is about more than performances, as they seek to inspire new audiences while celebrating the cultural identity that defines their music.
Speaking from Vienna after the band’s safe arrival, Jeys Marabini expressed excitement about the upcoming performances and praised the enthusiasm shared by every member of the group. He revealed that preparations for the tour had gone smoothly and that the musicians were eager to begin performing before European audiences. According to Marabini, excitement within the band continues to grow as the opening performance approaches, with everyone looking forward to connecting with music lovers from different backgrounds. He said the group understands the importance of representing Zimbabwe on an international stage and remains committed to delivering unforgettable concerts. His confidence reflects months of planning, rehearsals and dedication aimed at ensuring every performance meets the high standards audiences have come to expect from the Kozekulunge Band.
Marabini described the invitation to perform across Europe as an important milestone in the band’s career and a clear sign that their music continues to resonate far beyond Zimbabwe’s borders. He acknowledged the confidence shown by international promoters who have followed the band’s work and invited them to present their distinctive sound to new audiences. The veteran musician explained that this recognition motivates the band to continue improving while remaining true to the authentic style that has defined their career for many years. He added that every member of the Kozekulunge Band has demonstrated exceptional commitment, energy and teamwork throughout the preparation process. Their strong chemistry, combined with years of performing experience, is expected to translate into vibrant concerts filled with passion, authenticity and the unmistakable spirit of Zimbabwean music.
Concert audiences throughout Germany, Austria and the Czech Republic will enjoy a carefully selected repertoire that blends Marabini’s well-known classics with material from his acclaimed 2025 album, Umjolo. The album draws deeply from African identity and reflects the musician’s upbringing in Filabusi, specifically the area he proudly refers to as koGodlwayo Omnyama, Omahlabayithwale. Through its songs, Umjolo explores themes connected to heritage, identity, community and personal experience while maintaining the signature fusion of jazz and marabi that has become Marabini’s trademark. Performing songs from the album during the European tour gives international audiences an opportunity to experience both the emotional depth and cultural significance behind his latest work. The inclusion of new material alongside beloved classics ensures that longtime supporters and first-time listeners alike will enjoy a rich musical experience.
Jeys Marabini’s latest European tour represents another major achievement for Zimbabwean music and reinforces the growing international demand for authentic African artistic expression. Through live performances, educational workshops and cultural exchanges, the Kozekulunge Band will serve as ambassadors for Zimbabwe’s musical heritage while creating lasting connections with audiences across Europe. Their commitment to excellence, combined with Marabini’s decades of experience and storytelling through music, places them in an excellent position to leave a meaningful impression wherever they perform. As the month-long tour begins in Germany and continues across Austria and the Czech Republic, fans can expect memorable concerts that celebrate culture, tradition and musical excellence. The journey not only marks another milestone in Jeys Marabini’s successful career but also strengthens Zimbabwe’s presence on the global music stage through the universal language of music.
