The group Zay celebrated its 30th anniversary on stage during a concert at the Palais des Sports in Mahamasina, marked by a poignant tribute to Nary, whose musical legacy continues to live on.
Nary’s voice resonated once again yesterday at the Palais des Sports. During an anniversary concert filled with emotion and nostalgia, the group Zay paid a special tribute to its former member and leader, who passed away during the Covid-19 pandemic. The most striking moment occurred during the performance of “Indray andro any,” accompanied by a hologram of Nary. None of the members present, not even the backing vocalists, sang alongside his image, letting the late artist’s voice resonate alone.
The stage, set in the center of the Palais des Sports, was surrounded by elaborate lighting and hosted a dozen artists. The group, consisting of six members, was accompanied by several musicians, including piano, bass guitars, drums, saxophone, and numerous backing vocalists. The concert, which ran without a break, featured several hit songs, including “Efa nomeko” and “Manahirana.” The audience was particularly enthusiastic during “Ampy izay.”
Although the audience was predominantly young, it included several generations who came with family or friends. Many stood up to sing and dance to the rhythm of the tracks, demonstrating their attachment to Zay’s musical universe.
This anniversary concert, which had been sold out for a long time, kicks off a full year of celebrations for the group’s 30 years on stage. Due to the high demand from fans, a special area called “Passy Hihaona” was set up right around the stage.
Created thirty years ago, Zay has seen several lineups. Among the founding members, three are still present. After the passing of Nantenaina in 2001, the group also lost Nary, and then Micka. Today, the lineup includes six members: Malala, Haingo, Mamy, Miora, Tovo, who joined a few years after the group’s inception, and Artie, who joined in 2018. Throughout its journey, Zay has released seven albums and several popular singles, while collaborating with various production houses and major companies, and conducting numerous tours in Antananarivo, the regions, and Europe.
For Malala, Nary’s passing left “a great void,” but his legacy remains. “No one will replace Nary. But what he passed on to us has remained alive. His musical style has been transmitted and it will not change,” she confided. Some new songs are composed collectively based on ideas, lyrics, or melodies left behind by Nary. “We think every day about the best way to keep this legacy alive,” Malala added.
“Everything was built simply, thanks to the love the public has for the group. It is both a blessing and a passion for music,” emphasized Haingo. A passion that continues today to keep Nary’s legacy alive through Zay’s music.
Captured & Published at: 2026-07-27 06:23:46 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/07/palais-des-sports-zay-garde-le-tempo.html