In January 2021, Malawi lost one of its musicians of international acclaim, Mtebeti Wambali Mkandawire. His passing not only saddened the music industry and the nation, it also meant the survival of Manyasa Band, an outfit Wambali was part of, was in doubt. Two years after his passing, efforts to resuscitate the group seems to have gathered momentum. On October 20, Manyasa Band held a relaunch concert at Mibawa Multipurpose Hall in Blantyre. Our Staff Reporter BRIAN ITAI caught up with manager of the group Vitumbiko Mumba to share more on the comeback. Excerpts:

Credited for assembling Manyasa Band: Wambali Mkandawire

Q

: How has life been like after Wambali Mkandawire’s death?  

A

: Life has not been easy. For Manyasa Band, it has taken over two years for them to come to accept that the great Mtebeti is no longer around. So, you can see what a struggle it has been to come to terms with this harsh reality.

Q

: The group has been relaunched, why did you think of bringing it back to life?

A

: The idea was never there, but after the members regrouped recently for the book launch and also tombstone unveiling for Wambali, they felt the need to regroup as Manyasa Band. It was the first time in a long time and they gelled in such a way that the thought came naturally.

Q

: What is your impression of the outings the band has made so far?

A

: It is a positive direction as far as keeping the legacy of the great Mtebeti is concerned. We needed something like that and the commitment and professionalism that the group has shown so far cannot be faulted.

Q

: Do you think the group will manage to recreate the vibe that Wambali was known for?

A

: It is a challenge, but remember, they were part of the creation of the vibe. So, they cannot be far from it. With a lot of practice and performances, that magic will definitely come back. Already, they are not far off and you can see that every time they take to the stage. They are such a talented group capable of sailing to great heights.

Q

: How many members does the group have?

A

: At the moment we have 10 members. We have Dan Sibale, who is the band leader, Godfrey Mbizi, Samuel Mkandawire, Collen Ali Matola, Thatcher Ng’oma, Eric Mwalwanda, Mathews Mphande, Vita Chirwa, Daniel Thom and Sangwani Munthali.

Q

: Any possibility of adding new names to the cast?

A

: That can only depend on the need. But at the moment that need is not there.

Q

: Which areas do you feel the group needs to improve on?

A

: They just need more rehearsals otherwise everything is perfect.

Q

: After the Mibawa show, what next for Manyasa Band?

A

: We are looking at a countrywide tour. In addition, Manyasa Band will be available for corporate events or any other form of hiring.n

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