Grammy Award winning legendary roots reggae singer-songwriter, vocalist and musician, Winston Rodney OD, who goes by the moniker Burning Spear finally jetted into the country on Thursday ahead of his debut performance at Civo Stadium in Lilongwe on Saturday.
Wearing a black cap written Ginger Roots and a black T-shirt, the legend, who has inspired several reggae artists in the country, was met at Kamuzu International Airport in Lilongwe by among others, Born Afrikan, who is based in South Africa and special advisor to President Lazarus Chakwera on creative industries Q Malewezi, who is also a poet.
And later at the press conference, Burning Spear said he is looking forward to performing for the people as well as give them the music.
“This is not the first time coming to Africa,” he said.
The seasoned reggae musician went on to say that he was originally from Senegal.
“As Jamaicans we are African descendants and coming to Africa is like going to any other country,” the artist, who has already had performances in among others, Zimbabwe said.
Ahead of the historical concert, the artist is expected to be engaged in a Meet and Greet Excusive event at Sunbird Capital Hotel on Friday evening.
The concert has excited many reggae music enthusiasts with the influential and long standing roots artists to emerge from the 1970s, set to add to the several Jamaican musicians, who have performed in the country and they include Luciano, Busy Signal, Kenyatta Hill, Morgan Heritage, Gramps Morgan, Turbulence and Everton Blender.
Sound Addicts Live Director Shadreck Kalukusha, whose outfit is spearheading the One Africa tour in the country, said they were happy to finally have the legend.
“We know there is the fuel shortage issue which a lot of people are complaining about but we are hoping people will not miss this opportunity to enjoy reggae vibes live from Burning Spear,” Kalukusha said.
The ‘Identity’ and ‘Not Stupid’ maker will is expected to share the stage with local acts such as Sangie, Black Missionaries, Zembani Band and Sean Morgan.
Burning Spear has won two Grammy Awards for Best Reggae Album; one at the 42nd Grammy Awards in 2000 for Calling Rastafari, and one for 2009’s Jah Is Real.
He has been nominated for a total of 12 Grammy Awards.
