Birthday boy Khakhathi Murida (left) being wished well by fellow artists Mulaudzi Tee Jay and his wife Nale during the celebratory bash. Photo supplied.
Entertainment Date: 12 October 2024
Birthday boy Khakhathi Tshisikule, better known as Murida in music circles, left fans in awe on Saturday at what was described as one of the biggest bashes of the weekend.
Fresh from his stellar performance at the Phalaphala FM Royal Heritage Festival a month ago, the outspoken Murida served as the closing act during his 52nd birthday celebration.
The well-attended event saw more than 2,500 fans of the popular reggae legend gathering at the Elias Nefale Eco Estate in Vuwani to celebrate his birthday. Among the guests were relatives, family members, and a family member from Australia, Mr. Rolf Geerling.
The lineup at the bash resembled a “who’s who” of local musicians, featuring the evergreen reggae icon Colbert Mukwevho, Vhadau Germany, Zimbabwean rhumba maestro Mitchell Jambo, Gusba Banana, and Cyria the Community.
Fans were surprised when, at midnight, veteran Tshivenda traditional musician Solomon Mathase was presented on stage. Mathase wasted no time and enchanted the audience with his popular songs, including “Dikeledi,” “Ntshavheni,” and “Vho Nyabele,” among others.
“I feel like I am a newborn baby. Murida gave me a new lease on life. I felt very bitter when I was excluded from the Phalaphala FM Royal Heritage Festival, but now I feel my wound has healed,” he said.
The ecstatic Murida, who, in addition to being a prophetic musician, is also a politician and businessman, could not hide his excitement. “This has never happened in my life. Some 2,500 fans came to wish me well on my special day. In all this, I see the grace of God. I have never experienced this type of love. I am very thankful for the support I received from fellow artists, all of whom gave splendid performances,” he said.