Svosve relives memories

Trust Khosa

LIVING legend Phillip Svosve is radiating confidence as he prepares to celebrate his 75th birthday on February 20. 

The veteran saxophonist, recently discharged from hospital after a short illness, feels a deep sense of love and support from the jazz community in Harare and beyond.

Svosve, who leads the dynamic ensemble Jabavu Drive, believes that jazz music continues to attract fans despite shortage of venues. 

He now hosts regular performances at The Grub Restaurant Pub in Eastlea, Harare, and is dedicated to using his influence to inspire young musicians in his circle. 

As the only surviving founding member of Jabavu Drive, Svosve is eager to make the most of his influence as he approaches both his 75th birthday and 55 years in the music industry. 

“I was unwell, as reported in some publications, but I am back and as fit as a fiddle, doing what I love the most,” he shared. 

“On February 20, we will celebrate life together with fellow jazz musicians. We plan to use our new venue, The Grub Restaurant & Pub, for the celebration while also establishing it as our regular spot for Friday performances.” 

Reflecting on the past when they were contracted by club owners, Svosve conceded that trends are changing. 

“We used to play at one venue for almost three years, getting paid by club owners who would purchase equipment for us. 

“But we cannot continue to remain stuck in the past. In life, we ought to be innovative, but there comes a time when you need to settle in one place or have at least one permanent slot at one venue once a week. In our case, discussions are currently underway with management at The Grub,” he said. 

Svosve’s last outing at The Grub was endorsed by captains of industry, fellow musicians, policymakers, and even technocrats. 

Tourism chiefs and staff from the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority were all in attendance. 

He has also been giving youngsters the platform to showcase their craft during his shows, especially those eager to learn.

Svosve was showered with wads of American dollars, reinforcing his belief that jazz music still has an audience despite the shortage of venues. Reminiscing, Svosve told The Herald Arts that he now prefers permanent slots at jazz venues to cater his fans. 

“I know we have just come from the festive season while the back-to-school fatigue is still weighing heavily on us as musicians. 

“We were surprised that the jazz community is having none of it, as they want us to hold shows regularly and cater to their needs. They are demanding that we continue holding regular slots, and who am I to turn them down?” stressed Svosve.

With over five decades of blowing the saxophone with finesse alongside his exceptional trombone player, Aaron Yafele, Svosve is rocking like a teenager each time he steps on stage. 

“I can safely say that it’s God’s grace that I am still managing to woo large and highly appreciative crowds. 

“We mainly do online marketing because of limited resources, but today the house is full, as you can see. 

“We have to utilise social media and be counted to make it,” he said. 

Seasoned arts consultant Mathias Bangura, who has been hosting Svosve at the crooner’s new home, was touched by his commitment. 

“Svosve has been in the game for years and deserves to be honoured for his legacy while he is still alive. 

“We will celebrate his birthday with him next month, as he said, but we wanted him to have a permanent slot here once a week. Despite the fact that he will be guaranteed income, he can also use the platform to network with other well-to-do people who come here regularly,” he said. 

Bangura promised to continue catering to the jazz community. 

“The jazz community is still there, and they need a place where they can enjoy it freely. We are doing our best to ensure that the community is catered for,” he added. 

On the local jazz musical landscape, Svosve has worked with greats, including the late James Chimombe at Ocean City Band. 

He has also served the late Safirio Madzikatire, the late national hero Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi, and Thomas Mapfumo.

It is quite unfortunate that most of his peers have passed away. 

The last death he experienced occurred on March 15, 2024, when they lost Nicholas Mugona, a co-founder of Jabavu Drive. 

Svosve was born in Chivhu and relocated to Epworth Mission, where he completed Standard 6 in 1964. 

He could not further his studies after falling in love with music. 

On February 20, he will turn 75, still as fit as a fiddle.