Can King Kandoro keep the Unplugged magic alive?

Mthabisi Tshuma, [email protected]

Comedy star King Kandoro faces an early test this weekend as one of the country’s most recognisable live music and lifestyle brands, Unplugged Zimbabwe, returns to Harare on Saturday under his stewardship.

The event will mark the first edition of Unplugged under its new management, with King Kandoro and his wife now at the helm of a platform that has, over the years, become synonymous with relaxed outdoor entertainment, live music and the celebration of local talent.

Founded in 2013 by childhood friends Ellinah Chipumha and Chiedza Danha, Unplugged was born out of the pair’s passion for Zimbabwe’s arts industry. What started as a music and lifestyle concept has since grown into a prominent platform that has provided exposure to a diverse range of performers, from emerging high school bands to established, world-class musicians.

Now, all eyes will be on King Kandoro and his team as they take over the reins of the brand, with Saturday’s show set to offer the first glimpse into their vision for its future.

The debut edition under the new management will feature a star-studded line-up headlined by Sylent Nqo, alongside Travellers Band, Tamy Moyo, Tanto Wavie, Takura, Shona Prince, Tahle Wedzinza, Reverb 7, Pretty Gangsta, Kim Makumbe and DJ RSK.

King Kandoro said his team was not seeking to reinvent Unplugged, but rather to preserve the foundation built by its founders while introducing fresh elements.

“There’s not much one can claim to bring to Unplugged. It was already a brilliant concept, being run by brilliant people. What I can promise to do is stay faithful to that foundation. My team and I want to build from there and add pomp and frills.

“The only thing that might change is a heavier focus on rhythm and blues music. We believe that complements the blanket-and-wine vibe that Ellinah and Chiedza established Unplugged on,” said King Kandoro.

His comments suggest that while the ownership of the brand may have changed, the new management intends to retain the atmosphere and identity that made Unplugged a favourite among Zimbabwe’s music lovers.

However, Saturday’s event will inevitably serve as a litmus test for the new custodians. Beyond delivering a memorable show, King Kandoro and his team will have to demonstrate their ability to maintain the brand’s reputation while giving it enough of a fresh touch to keep audiences coming back. – Follow on X: @mthabisi_mthire