adminTrust Khosa, Content Coordinator
VETERAN lyricist, Leonard Zhakata, reckons it’s never too late for yesteryear musicians to reinvent the wheel.
The Zimbabwe All Stars front man believes in experimenting with new sound and beats, which appeal to young generations.
Zhakata, who has been in the game for three decades, says young producers deserve a chance to work with veterans.
Being one of the creative geniuses of all-time to emerge after independence, Zhakata has not been shy of taking risks.
This time around, he has taken a huge gamble after roping in young producers on his 22nd album titled ‘Mupendero Wenguva.’
It will be launched today in the capital.
Judging by what we heard during the listening session, Mupendero Wenguva is a well-knit album laden with refreshingly new party songs.
It carries seven tracks namely Mufandichimuka, Runyoro Pamadziro, Dairai Tenzi, Inguva, Chiyi Nesu Mukadzi Mushingi and a gospel track – It Is Well – featuring Bethen Pasinawako.
Gibson Makumbe of VOT Studios produced four songs while Tapiwa of Touch Studios did two with Lyton Ngolomi “baking” one song.
INNOVATION
“It might appear as if I have dumped some of the old producers that I have worked with over the years but we are simply experimenting with new beats.
“We have realised that we need to release music which also touches the young generation’s hearts and there is nothing wrong with that.
“I believe I have made the right decision and it is my hope that fans will embrace the album,” he said.
Zhakata made his first experiment in recent years when he engaged the services of Oskid on the song Madam Boss, which featured Progress Chipfumo and Suluman Chimbetu.
“I have noted that some of the people don’t understand the exact lyrics of my songs so I have decided to give them lyrical videos that will guide them to master the lyrics.”
MESSAGE
Zhakata said he still tackles issues affecting people in their day to day lives.
“In this album, I am simply tackling the messages that affects ordinary people like the need for renewed hope, true love relationships among other themes.
“As top artists, we need to motivate our fans by singing lyrics with substance.
“Artists are role models who should help those in despair and the down-trodden by singing appealing stuff.”
SYNERGIES
Zhakata, who is also dedicating this album to his late cousin Thomas Makion, believes in unity.
“We have also invited captains of the industry to come and celebrate with us as we unveil the album at Crowne Plaza Hotel on Wednesday (tonight) where the likes of Alick Macheso, Jah Prayzah, Winky D’s manager, (Jonathan) Banda, Seh Calaz will also attend.
“After the Harare leg, we are also going to hold a business launch in Kadoma this Saturday at The Odyssey Hotel.
“Afterwards, we will then hold another public launch on the same night in Kadoma.”
FESTIVE SEASON MESSAGE
Zhakata urged people to be responsible during the long holidays. “As we meet and merry-make with our peers, let us not forget that there is January when schools will be opening.
“We need to be responsible and avoid risky behaviour since the festive season is usually associated with wild partying.”
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter