Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Entertainment Correspondent
AFRO-FUSION artiste, Lionel Matanda, fondly known as Caff, is back in Zimbabwe after a three-year dance in Mozambique and South Africa.
He returns home after pursuing music in the two countries — where he rubbed shoulders with up-and-coming artistes with diverse artistic prowess.
The Mutare-born artiste revealed to Weekender Entertainment that the experience was worthwhile.
Caff performed live shows at various joints in Johannesburg and the Eastern Cape, where he reconnected with scores of old and new fans — particularly Zimbabweans.
He described it as a perfect opportunity to popularise his music beyond local borders.
“It was a refreshing development. I really learnt a lot from the Mozambican and South African showbiz scenes. To them, it is serious business because they do not take it as a side hustle like we often do here.
“I love the commitment and dedication they put into their art, and I believe this will nurture my music and artistic approach.
“Spending years there was also beneficial for my growth, as I managed to refresh my mind away from various challenges that I faced then — challenges that somehow affected my career.
“A lot of external issues impacted my progress, so changing the environment was critical.
“I believe I am now refocused and ready to conquer again,” he said,
Caff is famed for popular songs such as “Ndiwe,” “Perfect to Zvandakaona,” “Magweregwere,” “Manager,” “Kende”, and “Me”.
As he marks his return, he has 14 songs lined up for release before the end of the year.
The project is his bold attempt to win back old fans and officially register his comeback to the mainstream music scene.
“I have more than 10 completed singles that are due for release before the end of the year. These singles will definitely endear me to my fans again.
“Obstacles have been there, but I think I have refreshed enough. I have been praying hard to revive my music career. Spending close to three years there was a period of growth, networking, and new influences.
“It gave me a broader canvas to experiment, refine my Afro-fusion sound, and engage with a more complex music industry,” he said.
The lanky artiste is scheduled to perform at several events this year, including a Sanganai promotional event slated for early September 2025.
The lyricist believes he is steadily rebuilding his career.
As part of his revival strategy, Caff has set his sights on expanding his reach into rural communities across Manicaland and beyond.
He plans to host live shows, collaborate with local promoters, and conduct music workshops aimed at discovering and mentoring rural talent.
He believes building a grassroots fan base will not only grow his brand, but also inspire young musicians in marginalised areas to believe in their own artistic dreams.
