CHE MATAKA ENTERTAINMENT CORNER

It's time to take a next step - Kung Fu Panda 4   This spring, for the first time in almost a decade, comedy icon Jack Black returns to his role as Po, the world’s most unlikely Kung Fu master, with a hilarious, butt-kicking new chapter in DreamWorks Animation’s beloved action-comedy franchise: Kung Fu Panda 4. After three death-defying adventures defeating world-class villains with his unmatched courage and mad martial arts skills, Po, the Dragon Warrior (Jack Black), is called upon by destiny to … give it a rest already. More specifically, he’s tapped to become the Spiritual Leader of the Valley of Peace. That poses a couple of obvious problems. First, Po knows nothing about spiritual leadership, and second, he needs to quickly find and train a new Dragon Warrior before he can assume his new lofty position. Even worse, there’s been a recent sighting of a wicked, powerful sorceress, Chameleon (Oscar winner Viola Davis), a tiny lizard who can shapeshift into any creatu...

    The Illusionz Beach Festival, spanning three days from August 30th to September 1st in Salima, is set to dazzle attendees with electrifying performances from Amapiano sensations Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa, among other top-tier artists. Martin Nyirenda, Managing Director of Illusionz, unveiled plans for a dynamic musical lineup featuring renowned South African artists, promising an unforgettable experience. Six international acts will complement over ten talented Malawian performers, ensuring a diverse showcase of talent. Alinane Njolomole, Marketing Executive for Illusionz, emphasized the festival's role in boosting tourism in Salima. From the Chilembwe cruise ship experience on Lake Malawi to lively pool parties and an array of beachside activities such as water sports, volleyball, and beach races, the festival offers something for everyone. Njolomole extended an invitation to corporate sponsors to join Illusionz in supporting the inaugural event, which is slat...

      Gospel musician Miriam Kuseni is set to hold what she dubs Easter Gospel Bash on April 1 2024 at Sheaffer ICA Marquee in Lilongwe. Kuseni said that the Easter Gospel Bash is part of her work of ministering the word of God through music. The singer also said that through the Easter Gospel Bash, she will launch her fourth album titled Zonse Nzainu Yehova. “It has been sometime since I connected with people on a big stage and now I am on back to launch my fourth album,” the Lilongwe-based gospel musician said. She said that Easter is an important occasion for every Christian hence taking time to organise the Easter Gospel Bash. “People will enjoy gospel vibes and at the same connect with each other,” Kuseni, who goes by the moniker Sister Miriam Kuseni, said. Apart from Kuseni as the headliner, the Easter Gospel Bash will feature other gospel acts such as Ndirande Anglican Voices, Kamuzu Barracks Gospel Singers, Shammah Vocalz, King James Phiri, The Mar...

  The 48-year-old was given a life sentence in 2014 for the killing of Clive "Lizard" Williams on the Caribbean island. His successful appeal, heard by the Privy Council in London, argued that a juror accused of trying to bribe others should have been thrown off his trial. Authorities in Jamaica will decide whether the case should be retried. The musician, real name Adidja Palmer, is one of the country's most popular artists and has collaborated with performers such as Jay-Z and Rihanna.   His 64-day trial was one of the longest in Jamaican history, and ended with Kartel being ordered to serve a minimum of 35 years in jail. This was later reduced to 32-and-a-half years. The trial heard that victim Clive Williams and another man, Lamar Chow, were given two unlicensed firearms belonging to Kartel for safekeeping. When they failed to return them at an agreed time, prosecutors said, they were summoned to Kartel's house in August 2011. Chow told the trial they were attacke...

Nyago (left), Ndamera and Keturah at the studio   Musicians affiliated with the Sounds of Malawi record label endeavor, spearheaded by American producer Harlan Steinberger, have expressed their appreciation for the project, emphasizing its potential to create abundant opportunities for them. Harlan, renowned for his work on musician Keturah’s eponymous album in the USA, has commenced recording sessions for the album at Jacaranda Studios in Chigumula, Blantyre. As of yesterday, the roster of artists recorded by Harlan included Eunice Kadzuwa Mhango, Nyago, Ben Mankhamba, Agorosso, Keturah, Lucky Stars Band under the leadership of Boniface Ndamera, Snowden Ibbu, Waliko Makhala, Goma Nyondo, and Kukana Kuba Kasambwe Band. Recording sessions are ongoing, with artists such as Giddes Chalamanda and Chigo Nyasulu lined up for today. “This initiative is monumental for our creative sector. Following my collaboration with Harlan on my Keturah album, I am thrilled to embark on another s...

  Tamia Jah  - arrested for swindling 8 milion kwacha A social media conent deloper Hannah Jabes pplarly known as Tama Ja spent a I in a cooler as sheaild to secure a bail after her arrest on Thursday. Police at Lingadzi in Lilongwe confirmed the arrest of  Tamia Ja for allegedly for not returning K8 million which was mistakenly sent to her bank account . Sergeant Cassim Manda, Lingadzi Police Station Publicist, has told Malawi24 that Tamia was arrested a few days ago after officers received a complaint from a certain businessperson that Tamia Ja allegedly defrauded him of his K8, 000,000. According to Manda, the businessperson mistakenly sent the cash to Tamia’s account which he wanted to send to someone else. “At first, the suspect acknowledged receipt of the money and told the co mplainant that she was travelling to South Africa and would do the transactions when she gets back. “After that, she started showing perverse behavior by not being willing to send back...

Spark Liko ft Nepman - Mphepo Thomson Msiska, known as Spark Liko, emerges as a promising figure in Malawi's hip-hop scene with his latest release, 'Mphepo,' a fusion of traditional and contemporary sound featuring Nepman. The track has swiftly gained popularity across entertainment circles, receiving extensive airtime on digital platforms and radio stations nationwide. 'Mphepo' encapsulates the essence of Malawian culture, particularly reminiscent of the northern region, with its rhythmic nod to traditional quench. Nepman's harmonious vocals on the chorus complement the song's cultural vibe seamlessly. Spark Liko seamlessly integrates rap elements with the traditional vimbuza rhythm, showcasing his lyrical prowess. The song resonates deeply with the northern Malawian community, often performed during the spirited vimbuza dance ceremonies, symbolizing reverence for ancestral ties and blessings from the divine. Expressing gratitude for the overwhelming suppor...

 South African hip-hop sensation Cassper Nyovest is set to take center stage alongside Amapiano star Young Stunna at the highly anticipated Ku Mingoli Bash 2024. The event, slated to electrify Civo Stadium on August 3rd, promises an unforgettable fusion of international talent and local flair. Revealed by the Ku Mingoli Bash organizers, the lineup also boasts Malawi's own Tay Grin as a prominent local headliner. The announcement, unveiled in Lilongwe, has sparked excitement among fans and industry insiders alike. Shadreck Kalukusha, CEO of Soundaddicts and organizer of the event expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming spectacle, anticipating a turnout of over 20,000 attendees. "Today, we unveil two international headliners: Cassper Nyovest and Young Stunna. These artists were chosen by the people, reflecting the pulse of our audience," remarked Kalukusha. Further enhancing the lineup, Kalukusha hinted at the imminent addition of either a Jamaican or Nigerian artist to co...

The narrative of Dancehall music in Malawi remains incomplete without acknowledging the significant contribution of Star Marley, formerly known as Emmanuel Kunje. Hailing from Blantyre, Star Marley burst onto the scene in 2006, aiming to breathe new life into the Hi! Ho! Ha! style following the untimely passing of his brother, Vic Marley, in 2005. The Hi! Ho! Ha! style, coined by the late Vic Marley in collaboration with Annie Matumbi, sought to establish ragga and dancehall music in a landscape dominated by traditional artists like Collings Bandawe, Andrew Matrauza, and Elias Kadwala. Vic Marley's legacy was marked by the release of the hit single 'Traffic Police,' which depicted the dramatic pursuit of a minibus driver by law enforcement after a traffic violation resulted in an accident. Tragically, shortly after this release, Vic Marley himself fell victim to a fatal car accident in Blantyre, leaving behind an unfinished album project. Stepping into his brother...

 South African authorities have made significant progress in the investigation into the murders of renowned rapper Kiernan Forbes, known as AKA, and his close friend Tebello “Tibz” Motshoane, as seven suspects have been apprehended in connection with the killings. AKA and Tibz were tragically gunned down outside a restaurant in Durban a year ago, sending shockwaves through South Africa. Lt Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, the KwaZulu-Natal provincial police commissioner, revealed that hitmen were hired to target AKA, but no motive has been disclosed thus far. According to police reports, the suspects, all under the age of 36, played various roles in the plot to assassinate AKA. These roles include alleged gunmen, spotters, and facilitators who sourced firearms for the attack, as well as the alleged mastermind behind the killings. Lt Gen Mkhwanazi emphasized that while AKA was the intended target, Tibz was not, indicating a clear premeditated plan. The suspects, some of whom are also linked ...

  The memorial service for Morgan Heritage lead singer, Peetah Morgan, will be held on March 7 in Orlando, Florida, at a venue to be announced, the family has confirmed. Details include that there will be a public viewing starting at 3 p.m.; the service at 4 to 6 p.m.; a lantern lighting at 6:15 to 6:30 p.m. and the repast at 7 to 10 p.m. In a social media post, Morgan Heritage further stated, “In this life, live for the cause and your name will live forever. So do JAH work and be remembered. These are the words of the great Peter ‘Peetah’ Anthony Morgan. Peetah died on Sunday 25th February 2025 in the United States of America. Together with his brothers, Roy Gramps Morgan, and Mojo Morgan, and sister Una founded the band Morgan Heritage.

  Sellina Nyirenda, the Regional Head of Corporate Affairs for MultiChoice Africa Holdings in Southern Africa, announced yesterday the latest developments within the Multichoice Talent Factory (MTF), which is currently embarking on its fifth cohort. Nyirenda, hailing from Zambia and stationed in Lusaka, highlighted MTF's transformative impact on the industry through its comprehensive training of young filmmakers. She emphasized its role in paving professional pathways within the film and TV sector, while also empowering African talents to produce culturally relevant content for local audiences. "We've witnessed numerous success stories. Our alumni are making remarkable strides, elevating African narratives and crafting authentic cinematic experiences," Nyirenda remarked. Regarding the recent cohort, which now includes two representatives from Malawi, Nyirenda mentioned their arrival in Lusaka to commence their 12-month training program. "We're particularly pr...

  John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu.   The Nigerian entertainment industry is in mourning following the untimely demise of veteran Nollywood actor, John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu. The beloved comic actor, renowned f or his comedic prowess and infectious laughter, passed away after a prolonged battle with illness. Mr Ibu's health struggles, which included undergoing surgeries resulting in the amputation of his leg, ultimately culminated in his tragic death. His absence from the limelight in recent years had sparked speculations about his well-being, with rumors of his deteriorating health circulating widely before his passing. In addition to his health challenges, Mr Ibu had previously made alarming allegations of being targeted by enemies within his community. In 2019, he claimed that his domestic workers were bribed to poison him due to jealousy over his successful career. Furthermore, in May 2022, he alleged being poisoned for the third time, shedding light on t...