Arts Views with Thabani H Moyo
WHO would have thought that one day Jeys Marabini will get people jumping, dancing and singing along to a reggae tune? Maybe no one fathomed that idea.
Even the thought of it sent shivers down the music gaffer’s spine. There was uncertainty around the whole project. He had nightmares of his critics laughing and making fun of his effort. However Ramadu had other ideas and he pushed Jeys into one of his historic leap of faith, the song Jah Deliver Us.
The experiment seems to have played out well as it has become one of the biggest hits in 2021. There have been calls throughout Africa that Jeys must put up a reggae live show but the opportunity has been hindered by Covid-19 pandemic.
“There are opportunities for me to do live shows throughout Africa but because of Covid-19 live shows are not permitted because of the regulations. However I am planning on doing live streaming on available platforms,” ascertains Jeys.
The song has also changed how music lovers perceive the music maestro. No doubt he has proved that he is talented and can do any genre of music. The reggae project has revealed his strength and charisma. Veteran reggae musicians and reggae lovers have welcomed Jeys with open arms into their province.
“Reggae music has a universal appeal. My reggae sound is original. It has this traditional Zimbabwean and African touch. It identifies me and what I stand for. It is amazing how the song has spread to the four corners of the world like veld fire,” Jeys elucidated.
The shift did not come easy. It was a brave act.
“I was ready to take criticism. At some point I feared that people would not like the dish. But the reception shocked me as the song seemed to break all barriers that surrounded my music career before. My traditional fans liked the song and are saying I have found the right sound.
They are calling for more reggae music from me,” he breaks into a joyful laughter. Jeys is not thinking of quitting his traditional sound. He will continue to produce his traditional music. He is even prepared to do two albums in a year to satisfy his market.
When quizzed whether he will be spotting a dreadlock anytime soon he broke into laughter.
“I believe in reggae music even if I don’t do what Rastafarians do. Reggae music is powerful. It is music that usually carries powerful messages. Reggae music is a unifier, it is love. Reggae music is all about peace and the truth. It is music that plays with unities of time as it brings the past, the present and the future into one. It is music by the human race for the human race,” Jeys explains his faith in reggae music.
The song seems to have attracted congratulatory messages from all over the world. Even some celebrities like Siyabonga Shibe of UZalo could not resist the song and showered the music gaffer with praises.
Some musicians across Africa have got in touch with offers of new projects and collaborations. Shasha Marley from Ghana, Thuthukani Cele from South Africa and Melody from Uganda are some of the artists that have highlighted their interest in collaborating with Jeys.
Jah Deliver Us is a pure and original reggae song. Its message is powerful and relevant. It is such types of songs that make legends and Jeys has but proved that he is in a class of his own.
