Online Reporter
Prince Mushawevato
Society Editor
THAT children of arts legends will — or even should — inherit the creative mantle of their parents is not a foregone conclusion.
In reality, those who have attempted to force the issue have frequently ended in failure.
Yet the local creative landscape is rich with celebrated dynasties.
The Chimbetu family, for instance, has etched its name into our cultural history as a result of its storied musical legacy.
More recently, the Manatsa family has emerged as another dynasty in showbiz.
Tracing their musical heritage back to the legendary late Zex Manatsa, the family appears to have established a solid lineage that guarantees the Manatsa name will endure for generations to come.
New rising stars
Currently, two rising stars from the family have captured the public’s imagination through their exceptional instrumental prowess.
With his signature afro comb tucked into his hair, Ben Tinaye Manatsa (18) — the son of Selmor Mtukudzi and Tendai Manatsa — has captivated concert-goers with his refined guitar skills.
Confidently clutching the lead guitar, the teenager unleashes melodies that are nearly impossible to resist on the dance floor.
In fact, some — including his mother Selmor — have jokingly noted that the young man has become a legitimate “threat” to his father’s role in the band, as Tendai himself is a seasoned lead guitarist.
Regardless of this playful rivalry, the musical chemistry between father and son is truly ethereal. Beyond Ben and Tendai, another member of the family is making waves in the group.
Aaron Manatsa (21), the son of Tendai’s elder brother Green, has over the past few months distinguished himself as a drummer of repute while performing with Selmor. The way he executes intricate rhythms — reminiscent of veteran drummers like Sam Mataure — leaves many questioning whether he is truly a novice.
Besides, Aaron possesses a gift for original composition. His nimble hand-and-foot coordination, combined with the professional-grade sound he produces, is nothing short of mesmerising.
In short, watching this talented duo in action is an exhilarating experience that signals a bright future for the Manatsa legacy.
Ben’s journey to the big stage is rooted in his early childhood, tracing back to a poignant moment when he was just 11 years old.
It was then that the grandson of late legends Dr Oliver Mtukudzi and Zex Manatsa became the proud owner of a Tanglewood acoustic guitar — a high-end professional British instrument.
He received the guitar as a gift just 16 days before Dr Mtukudzi passed away at the Avenues Clinic in Harare.
As the story goes, the late superstar’s family, including his daughter Selmor and her husband Tendai, had visited the ailing legend with their children.
During their conversation, Tuku is said to have asked each of his grandchildren what they wished to pursue in life.
It was, however, Ben who stood out when he told the music icon he wanted to be a musician.
His grandfather then instructed him to pick up one of his favourite guitars that was resting nearby. The young and enthusiastic Ben took it and began playing the classic hit “Todii”.
Impressed, the legend then challenged the boy to play one of his own compositions.
Warmed up and unfazed, Ben coolly performed his own original work, leaving Tuku amazed. He was handed the guitar as a gift immediately after.
“I want to be a musician full-time; that is what I love doing and what makes me happy,” Ben said during an interview last week.
That dream is now morphing into reality. The rising guitarist is making significant strides towards becoming an instrumentalist of note, frequently gracing major stages.
“I am currently working with my parents, and it is proving to be a great experience. In the long run, I will launch my own projects, but I will always remain a part of my parents’ ensemble,” Ben noted.
Consistent performances at high-profile events, he said, have been instrumental in introducing him to a wider audience.
The group is scheduled to perform at the upcoming July 3 concert, titled “Mhofu Dzichifara Mudanga”, in Harare, where Ben promises to unleash his full potential. The concert, themed “A night where totems unite through music, culture and heritage”, will also feature performances by Alexio Kawara, Victor Kunonga, Zimdancehall chanter Dhadza D and neo-soul singer Tariro neGitare.
Regarding his working relationship with his parents, Ben remains humble.
“They are good people and I think they are the best. They do not put me under any pressure; in fact, it is I who places the pressure on myself.”
Aaron’s journey mirrors his cousin’s in many ways.
“Growing up, I admired my parents and grandfathers, Zex Manatsa and Oliver Mtukudzi. Being able to play on the big stages I used to look up to feels like an honour. It is exciting!” he shared.
“I think I wanted to play the drums before I could even walk. I have loved music for a long time and have always wanted to play alongside my aunts and uncles.”
Inspired by both local and international drummers, Aaron intends to balance his music career with his education.
He also hopes to eventually collaborate with artistes outside his family circle.
“I am prioritising my education. In August, I will begin my first year of university, studying Computer Science, so I will be juggling both music and academics. My parents, aunts and uncles are very supportive. We are a very close-knit extended family,” he said.
Aaron’s father, Green, confirmed his son’s passion for music.
“For Aaron, it is not about whether or not we support him; he simply loves the drums. It is what he has done his entire life. I bought him his first drum set when he was barely three years old,” Green revealed.
“Even as a toddler, whenever he walked into a room with instruments, he would head straight for the drums. He has experimented with other instruments, like the mbira, but his heart remains with the drums.”
Green emphasised that they offer their children unconditional support in their chosen careers while maintaining the importance of academic success.
“I support his path, but he must go to school.
“He finished his Advanced Level last year and is currently on break before starting his degree in Information Systems this August,” he said.
“He is currently performing with his aunt and uncle, and he will continue to be part of the group throughout his studies.
“He will simply have to learn to balance the two.
“I have five children and while they all have an interest in music, Aaron is a cut above the rest. He truly embodies the Manatsa bloodline.”
The Manatsa musical legacy runs deep.
Green and his six brothers — including Tendai — are all active musicians, following in the footsteps of their father, the late Zex Manatsa, and his own siblings.
The family’s talent is expansive: Tendai leads his own group and performs with Selmor; Green plays the keyboard and runs a home studio; Aaron plays bass, provides vocals and records in the United Kingdom; Freedom Manatsa is a popular, multi-talented artiste; and Shingi is a skilled keyboardist, sound engineer and mechanic.
Zex Jnr rounds out the group as a drummer, vocalist and producer, who also supplies stage equipment to event organisers in the UK.
“My father and his brothers — Israel, Stanley, Sabastian and Tedious — were seven in total, and they were all into music,” Green explained.
“When you visit our rural home, even during funerals, you find that most of our family members are playing drums or singing to comfort and entertain the community.”
Selmor Mtukudzi shared her sentiments regarding the new generation.
“Aaron started working with us after finishing school last December. Ben had been working with us on and off, but he has since joined the group full-time after completing high school,” she said.
The late Tuku’s daughter noted that working with such youthful talent has brought a fresh energy and a high level of creativity to their camp.
“Ben plays the lead guitar — the same instrument his father Tendai plays. We are a close-knit family, and we get along so well that working together is seamless.”
She also emphasised the importance of the boys’ continued education.
“They are going to manage both music and school. Ben is starting college in August to study Agriculture online, so he will be available on weekends, while Aaron will join us during his university breaks.”
