Freshly Ground’s Explosive HIFA Performance

Freshly getting down

There is something about Freshly Ground’s music and style that I can’t quite put my finger on. Something almost familiar- like “I know this music. I have grown up with it. It’s a part of me” and yet so different, new and exciting.

That certain something was present in explosive proportions tonight when they performed in front of one of the biggest audiences ever seen at HIFA. Over 5,000 people crammed into the HIFA main arena.

Freshly Ground on stage

Even before the show, I could sense the electrical zazing! of expectation in the air. At the gate, long queues formed to get into the show. A black market for tickets (which were sold out at Z$250 million at the box office) opened up and you could buy your last minute ticket for up to Z$750 million.

Part of the capacity audience at the show

Freshly Ground appeal to a wide audience. Teenagers and their grandparents seemed equally excited to be there.

Ecstatic fans throw their hands up in the air

The show was delayed by about 15 minutes and only started at around 1945hrs- adding to the thrill of expectation. When Freshly Ground stepped onto the stage they were greeted by loud applause.

And they did not dissapoint. Lead singer, Zolani, belted out favourites such as Pot Belly and Doo Be Doo to an appreciative audience that knew most of the lyrics.

Dance with me!

Then, just before the end of the show, she told the crowd how the group had debated about coming to Zimbabwe at a time such as this. They finally decided to come. She then said: “The next song we are going to do was not written by us, but by one Robert Nester Marley and was sung right here in Zimbabwe in 1980.”

Zolani put up a terrific performance

Immediately we knew what the song was and there was a thunderous cheer from the crowd. I don’t believe that song, Zimbabwe, has been so well received since it’s debut performance.

And after it all, there was nothing whatsoever to grind…

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