By Fidelis Manyange

RUSUNUNGUKO Bar in Unit L, Chitungwiza, was a hive of activity last Saturday as hundreds of revellers and music lovers thronged the popular watering hole to witness different bands showcasing their talents in the Chibuku Road to Fame provincial finals.
Ten bands battled it out with the majority playing Sungura while only two bands played Afro Jazz and Dancehall.
Participating groups included Naka Sugar Express, Zaka Stars, Adequate Sounds, Nemashakwe Stars, Motion Crew, Music Africa, Wachena Chena Crew, Top Shatta Band, Rushinga Sounds and Tambarimba Band.
The crowd was kept on its feet throughout by the fast Sungura beat.
The judges had a torrid time as each group displayed well choreographed dances and played instruments passionately.
But perhaps the shortcoming with the upcoming artistes is that if one has got the talent of playing instruments, he or she would presume that automatically he or she is talented in vocals.
Sungura outfit from Budiriro, Adequate Stars came first and scooped US$1 000 in cash.
Consisting of youngsters, this group was a marvel to watch and listen to as they delivered their works with much confidence.
One would be forgiven to think that they have recorded before.
Naka Sugar Express from Hatcliffe and Tambarimba got away with US$500 and US$300 after coming second and third respectively.
The crowd’s response to Sungura on Saturday showed that despite the genre currently playing second fiddle to dancehall music, it is set to bounce back.
Meanwhile in Matabeleland South, Moto Super Stars from Gwanda came first in the Chibuku Road to Fame provincial finals held at Colleen Bawn Beer Garden while Tshitshi Super Sounds and Vumbachikwe Sounds from Plumtree came second and third respectively.
All the groups which won will join other provincial winners at the national finals to be held at Glamis Stadium on September 26.
Matabeleland North Province will hold their competition in the Nambya-dominated Hwange on Saturday in Hwange Number 1 Beer Garden.