Aussie-based crooner turns to Kanindo

Trust Khosa

Australia-based reggae artist, Mabasa “General Bazuka” Ziyambi says he believes in synergies with other artists.

This follows the production of his new single, titled Usabope Dhongi, featuring Kanindo artist Shantel Sithole.

Shantel is one of the rising artists who sings gospel with a Kanindo flair.

After being inspired by her creativity, Ziyambi has since recorded a single with Shantel, who was identified by producer Gibson Makumbe, of VOT Studios.

“The single took us about a month to complete.

“This was caused by distance and getting to come up with a project agreeable to both parties.

“Shantel and her management also had to sit down and see how best we could meet halfway. 

“My busy schedule also played a part in delaying the production,” he said.

Ziyambi, who believes in versatility, said the single was inspired by his love for comedy.

“The song was just more of pure humour. When we were working on it, we called it Comedy Central.

“Our message was not targeting anyone but, as someone who had an opportunity to travel the world, I have seen people who are proud of their skin colour and natural looks.

“I have seen people even admiring my dark skin. 

“So the bleaching trend is a ‘no’ for me. I do understand that it’s an individual choice but in all honesty, it is just not cool.”

Despite being far away, Ziyambi said it felt good to work with Shantel.

He also hailed his management for linking him with the diva.

“The whole idea was brought about by my friends over a drink.

“We were watching YouTube videos and my close friend, Charles Matope, kept repeating some of Shantel’s songs.

“He then challenged me to do a collabo with her. 

“I also felt it was a good thing to give it a go because I was also enjoying the Kanindo. 

“I then called my friend Pedro to link me up with Makumbe , Shantel’s manager, then everything started. 

“They were also interested in working with me and my team.

“I find Shantel so versatile and articulate in the way she does the vocals. She is a unique character and her choice of rhyming vocals are tongue twisting and top notch. 

“I have so much respect for her talent,” he said.

Asked whether he had plans to work with Shantel in future projects, Ziyambi added:

“At this stage I haven’t thought about it because of distance but based on the song we did, I see it coming.  We haven’t discussed this yet but who knows.

“I will be in Zimbabwe soon to catch up with friends and family. I have a few interviews lined up and also some shows. It’s been far too long, I miss my home.”

Ziyambi said he was impressed by the strides he has made to penetrate the Zimbabwean music market.

“I was surprised to listen to some beautiful comments and at times I felt I was dreaming. 

“I get messages, especially for my video of the song Mama.

“A lot of positive comments were received. 

“I have my Zimbabwe-based management, I thank them for relentlessly pushing my music to the people,” he said.

Ziyambi said he will continue working hard.

“I don’t give up easily, I am a guy with the never-say-die attitude, I ignore negative backstabbing comments and focus on what I love doing. 

“My mental state is controlled by the fact that I am a mental health clinician myself. 

“I understand how negative vibes can destroy an individual.”

However, like any other Zimbabwean plying his trade overseas, Ziyambi said he has not been spared of challenges.

“The challenges we have is that some Zimbabweans think you have to be in Zimbabwe to be regarded as a Zim artist.

“Secondly, our instrumentalists are limited in a foreign land, our stage work is improving. 

“Trying to record a video is also charged based on where you are and not the quality of production,” he added.