Thomas Mapfumo dismisses rumours

Chimurenga music legend Thomas Mapfumo has dismissed reports suggesting that his upcoming farewell show in Harare is in jeopardy, describing them as "false and malicious" and confirming that the April concert will go ahead as planned.

Speaking from his base in the United States last week, Mapfumo, affectionately known as Mukanya, said claims of family disputes and financial difficulties threatening the event were entirely fabricated. "The show is on. Let me make that very clear. There are no problems, no family disputes stopping anything. People are just creating stories. In April, we will be in Harare, and we will perform," he said.

Mapfumo also refuted suggestions that he was financially dependent on his wife and daughter. "That is not true at all. I am financially OK. I have worked for many years. I have investments and music that continues to sustain me. The story that I am being taken care of by my wife and daughter is false and disrespectful. People must stop trying to portray me as someone who has nothing. I am not desperate. I am not broke," he said.

The veteran musician further rejected claims that his recent live performances in the United Kingdom and South Africa had been unsuccessful. "Those shows were not flops. We had successful performances. The people who attended know what happened there. You cannot rewrite reality to suit a narrative," he emphasized.

Preparations for the Harare farewell concert, Mapfumo said, are at an advanced stage, with organisers and his management team working closely to ensure a memorable event for fans. "Everything is moving according to plan. We are rehearsing, we are preparing, and we are looking forward to giving Zimbabweans a proper farewell show," he said.

Addressing insinuations that political or security concerns might prevent him from performing in Zimbabwe, Mapfumo dismissed such claims. "I have always spoken my mind, and I will continue to do so. But right now, there is no issue stopping me from coming to perform for my people," he said.

The farewell concert is expected to attract fans from across Zimbabwe and the diaspora, marking what Mapfumo has described as a historic moment in his celebrated career. "This farewell show is about the music and about the people who have supported me for years. Nothing is stopping it. In April, we will be there," he said.