Veteran producer, guitarist, and music analyst Mono Mukundu has paid heartfelt tribute to the Ecobank Legends Night concept, praising the young talents who have defied the odds to make a name for themselves, and commending corporate partners for supporting the growth of the music industry.
By Dickson Bandera
Speaking at the successful Ecobank Legends Night held at the prestigious Harare International Conference Centre on Sunday, Mono expressed his admiration for the initiative and emphasized the importance of nurturing and supporting Zimbabwe’s emerging artists.
“There is no country that can prosper without supporting its young people. As we stand here today, we congratulate the Legends Night performers. At their age, they could be going down the wrong path, pursuing drugs and girls, but instead, they are sitting in boardrooms, having business discussions with corporate partners,” he said.
The Legends Night concept was created by the In Total Band, led by Joseph Chinouriri, and his friends Takakunda Mukundu and Naphtali Chivandikwa, to honor musicians who have contributed to the music that defines Zimbabwe’s music ecosystem today.
The youthful musicians have assembled a team of top talented artistes including Tinashe Marodza, Ndomupeishe Chipendo, Mary Anibal, and Kelvin Muniq, to form a vibrant band that plays a variety of genres with precision, while also showcasing yesteryear fashion trends.
The full-capacity attendance of the 5th edition of the Legends Night proves that consistency is key, and this may go down in history as one of the best shows ever held in Zimbabwe.
Mukundu expressed deep gratitude to the iconic figures who have supported these young artists along the way, recognizing the significant role of industry veterans in paving the way for new talent.
“Sulu was one of the first to reach out to these young stars, offering encouragement. Mai Mtukudzi also lent her support, calling them to continue working hard. It’s this kind of mentorship that helps elevate our music industry.”
Mono also acknowledged the backing from key figures, including Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Arts, Mr. Nicholas Moyo, National Arts Council Chairperson, Mr. Napoleon Nyanhi, and veteran musician Ernest Tanga Sando.
He also extended his thanks to the Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (ZIMURA).
“We want to extend our thanks to ZIMURA, who are here supporting us. They are our colleagues, yes, we may have disagreements at times, but it is that conflict which makes us put order in our house,” he said.
The tribute to young talent would not have been complete without recognizing the unwavering support from behind the scenes. Mono took a moment to express his appreciation for Joseph’s mother, a pillar of support for the band.
“I must thank Jose Sax’s mother, for her continued support. She supports Joseph vigorously,” he said.
“The Legends Night concept actually started in their sitting room, and these boys had all the freedom in the house. All this we are seeing is a result of the rehearsals they were doing in their house.”
The Ecobank Legends Night 2025 event was not only a celebration of talent but also a demonstration of the power of corporate support in shaping the future of Zimbabwe’s creative industries. Ecobank, as the key sponsor of the event, played a crucial role in making Legends Night a resounding success.
Other partners who helped ensure the show’s success include Prime Migration Solutions, David Seth Foundation, Gateway Stream, Stage Line, and earGround Media.
This commitment to uplifting the arts community and investing in the next generation of musical talent is an exemplary model for other corporations to follow. Their support helps create opportunities for young, promising artists and ensures the sustainability of Zimbabwean music on the global stage.
The Legends Night has proven that with the right support from both industry veterans and corporate partners, Zimbabwe’s young talent can continue to thrive and reach new heights.
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