Album marks new beginning for ex-convict turned musician

THE pulse of local music is set to resonate once again with the release of Promise “Marvellous” Sibanda’s debut album, “Ithuba Lisekhona.”

This nine-track project marks a significant milestone not only in Marvellous’ life but also in the broader narrative of rehabilitation and reintegration for ex-convicts in Zimbabwe.

Marvellous, who spent three years behind bars, embodies the transformative power of music and the importance of second chances. He grew up in Mpopoma, attending Mandongola Primary School in Gwanda, Lukhanyiso Primary School and Granger Christian College in Bulawayo.

However, his life took a turn for the worst when he went to South Africa in 2013 and had his first encounter with a gun. From there, he began a spree of fraud and armed robbery to improve his life.

After serving three years in prison, he was granted a second chance at life through a recording contract with Dab Three Events. Instead of returning to his old ways, Sibanda embraced music as the antidote to his troubled past.

His journey from incarceration to the recording studio has been remarkable, and he is eager to share his story through music.

“Ithuba Lisekhona is a special song to me since I wrote it behind bars, in pain for being incarcerated for something I didn’t do,” he shared in a previous interview. It’s a song of regret for all the bad things that I’ve done in the past and hope for the future that I’m embarking on. I loved listening to Jeys Marabini back in the day, but I didn’t see myself as a musician later on in life.

To me, music started off as a hobby since I had ample time on my hands in jail,” said Marvellous.

The album, recorded, mixed and mastered at Dab Three Studios and Stormza Audio Works, is set to drop soon. It reflects not just his gratitude for a fresh start but also his commitment to inspiring others who may find themselves on a similar path.

In a refreshing twist, the album features the legendary Fraz, a name that once dominated the local Kwaito and House music scenes alongside friends Donara and Ma-Eli. Fraz, known for hits such as Gate Mark (amaNigeria) and Seqa Amabhilidi, had seemingly vanished from the music scene. However, fans can look forward to hearing him on three tracks from Ithuba Lisekhona: Isgubhu, Umkhwezeli and After 7.

Marvellous recounted how he met Fraz.

“Last month, when I hit Stormza’s studio in Lobengula, I heard that Fraz was a regular at the studio. I’d always wanted to work with him. So, I told Stormza to alert me the next time Fraz hits the studio, and that’s how I got to meet him for the first time. The rest is history,” he said, clearly excited about collaborating with the iconic artist.

Alongside Fraz, Marvellous has collaborated with other artistes, including Vuyo “Adoe” Dube, Philathu “Stormza” Nkiwane, Thembani “T-Lent” Mpala and Samukeliso “Samuee” Mabhena, each bringing their unique flair to the album.

Marvellous said his album is not only a celebration of his new lease on life but also a message of resilience and transformation. — Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu