New voice for Lucky Dube's band
26/11/2007 09:46  - (SA)  

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Macabre photos of Dube surface Dube murder accused in court End crime, Dube mourners asked Lucky Dube laid to rest Crowd gathers at Dube's funeral Convicts slam Dube killing Lucky hailed as immortal legend Artists pay tribute to Lucky 1 000s gather for Dube memorial Dube accused hide their faces Media barred from Dube funeral

Cecil Motsepe

Johannesburg - The late Lucky Dube's band seems to have found a man whose voice is good enough to keep them soldiering on without the slain reggae king.

When the band performs at a Tribute Concert in Moretele Park, Mamelodi, next Sunday, fans will be forgiven for thinking that Dube, who was killed in a botched hijacking last month, is still alive.

Thutukani "Chief" Cele, who used to play keyboards, has been moved to the front because his voice resembles that of Dube.

"When Thutukani Cele sang at the Germiston Lake after Lucky's funeral many people remarked that it was as if Lucky Dube was on stage.

"This is not just my opinion. Those who listened to him expressed similar views," said band leader Freddie "Skipha" Tshabalala.

'The band must never be disbanded'

He said however that Dube remained irreplaceable.

"We can only pick up from where he left. We are working very hard to push Lucky Dube's legacy. His motto was 'the show must go on'. So I am sure he would have loved to see us carry on this way," he said.

When asked if the band was still enjoying support, Tshabalala said: "I know that people overseas liked Lucky but they always saw us as a family.

"After his death people from all over the world called and said the band must never be disbanded. They promised us support."

Since Dube's passing, fans have waited with bated breath to see if the band would pull it off without the world-revered reggae singer.

But if Tshabalala's assertions are anything to go by, then the band will be the main draw card for the Mamelodi event.

The Slaves have done one album, Kneel Down and Pray, without Dube. It was well received, with Cele on the lead vocals.

Tribute Award

Drakensberg Promotions said the late Dube will be awarded the Tribute Award posthumously for his immense contribution to the local music industry, and for his role as the country's ambassador over many years.

Vusi Mahlasela, Busi Mhlongo, Don Laka, the late Jabu Khanyile and Queeneth Ndaba will also receive the coveted 10th Anniversary Tribute Award.

The line-up consists of Jonas Gwangwa, Judith Sephuma, Hugh Masekela, Vusi Mahlasela, Jimmy Dludlu, Caiphus Semenya, Letta Mbulu, Mafikizolo and Malaika, among others.

Tickets to the event are selling for R160 at Computicket and Shoprite Checkers.

- City Press

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