Wailers get new manager

Wailing Brothers manager Chigo Gondwe-Chokani has cut back on her involvement in the band’s affairs, paving the way for former Black Missionaries’ logistics aide Buju Mlanga.

Chigo has been in charge of the reggae band since their famous breakaway from the Blacks and she marshalled the contentious rebirth in the countdown to the release of their album.

However, tables appear to have turned as she is said to be so busy with family business that the singers have appointed Mlanga as acting manager.

In an interview, Wailing Brothers on-stage leader Takudziwani Chokani, husband to Chigo, said the band has decided “to relieve Chigo of some roles” as she is engaged with some consultancy work.

“Chigo will be responsible for corporate and international engagements whereas Buju is responsible of local affairs. So, Buju is acting manager,” he said.

Chigo could not pick up her phone when we called to hear her out and she was not available when we visited her hideout in Mzuzu— Jacaranda Lifestyle Lounge at Mimosa Hotel.

However, in a preview of early turmoil in the revived band, Mlanga contradicted Taku, saying Chigo quit the post.

“Due to pressure of work in Mzuzu, she has handed over the mantle to me,” said Mlanga.

Mlanga took over the leadership when the local Wailers relaunched their fifth album in Lilongwe on February 25 2016, he said.

He sounded enthused to work with the emergent band, saying: “I am young and the whole band is youthful.”