Zanubian Sings For Winnie ( long read , but a uplifting read )  by phil_howcroft

Zanubian Sings For Winnie ( long read , but a uplifting read )

Many long term followers will know of my friend Mellonie. I've photographed her several times singing in her reggae band, I did a fashion shoot for her in 2018 and photographed her among the bluebells a couple of years ago.

Melanie lost her husband Winnie Williams at the start of 2024. Winnie was a well known, well respected and much loved musician.

Mellonie asked me if I would take some photos at Winnie's funeral and at the celebration of his life event later in the day.

The celebration event was an uplifting occasion. Creatives from the Nottingham music scene and beyond, came together at the Marcus Garvey centre in a tribute concert to Winnie. Reggae , Ska , Soul and R&B filled the room.

It was an honour to be part of the day. I was worried about taking photos at a funeral, but there was a professional team recording the event on video, so I just took some informal shots from me seat in the balcony and then people outside the church after the funeral.

This is Zanubian, a local singer from Nottingham, who also sings with Mellonie in her band. I've photographed Zanubian before (she was part of the fashion shoot and I've also photographed her performing as a solo act).

It was really dark on the stage of the venue , so I had to bump up the Iso to get some decent photos

There's a lovely article about Winnie in the link below (lots of adverts in the article but just scroll past them)

https://www.nottinghampost.com/whats-on/music-nightlife/nottingham-chart-topper-kws-winston-9054962



A moving story Phil. You captured a fabulous portrait of Zanubian. I admire the perfect focus!
February 16th, 2024  
This is a terrific capture with such nice tonal depth. I think music is one of the best ways to celebrate a life. Thank you for the great story.
February 16th, 2024  
As Corinne C said the focus on the photo is perfect! Beautiful shot, you can almost hear the music
February 16th, 2024  
A wonderful narative , and a great shot of Zanubian on stage singing ! Love the facial expression !
February 16th, 2024  
Fabulous shot!
February 16th, 2024  
Great shot & narrative. I would imagine it feels a bit odd taking photos at funeral, not a usual thing, but I’m sure you did it justice.
February 16th, 2024  
@carole_sandford thanks carole , I only took a few of the congregation from above , it was a 2 hour service , lots of gospel and soul music
February 16th, 2024  
@marlboromaam thanks mags
February 16th, 2024  
@beryl thanks for reading the whole narrative beryl , it' a lovely story

February 16th, 2024  
@philippar thanks Philippa , that's kind of you to say , the music was good

@ljmanning thanks for the lovely words Laura , much appreciated , it is a story worth telling

February 17th, 2024  
@corinnec merci Corinne , thanks for reading the narrative , I hope my words told the story of the day
February 17th, 2024  
Super shot!
February 17th, 2024  
What a privilege, nice pose you've caught
February 17th, 2024  
What a lovely story, and a great image to go with it.
February 17th, 2024  
So powerful a story. I am so sorry for her loss. Thanks for the link, it was interesting to read. What a privilege for you to be a part of something so personal and important to her.
February 17th, 2024  
What an honour to be asked to take photos. A sad narrative but a lovely image.
February 17th, 2024  
Beautiful portrait capture in b&w Phil. Fav. A sad story to read but everybody is in line to go when the time comes.
February 17th, 2024  
Wonderful shot, sad story to it.
February 17th, 2024  
nice one
February 17th, 2024  
Very sad story but def a tribute to you as a photographer - lovely focus here on her singing
February 17th, 2024  
What a sad time. I hope your lovely images will help your friend heal.
February 17th, 2024  
Fantastic image and story. I hope your photos bring joy and good memories
February 17th, 2024  
what a wonderful story Phil
February 17th, 2024  
Wonderful shot and uplifting story
February 20th, 2024  
Leave a Comment
Sign up for a free account or Sign in to post a comment.