DHEWA – 11 YEARS LATER

Trust Khosa-Content Coordinator

TONGAI Moyo succumbed to cancer on October 15 2011.

He left a deep void, which is still hard to fill, 11 years after his departure.

To his loyal fans, the wound is still fresh with more surgical attention needed.

It appears the healing process now requires a miracle since the loss is still being strongly felt.

Fans only get comfort in his music, which is still as wonderful as ever.

The Utakataka Express founder, who was known with his multiple monikers, ranging from “Dhewa”, “Mopao Mokonzi”, “Mwana Nzambe”, “Murozvi Mukuru” to “Muridzi Wenyanga” was a star in sungura.

His death left Alick Macheso appearing to be running a one-man race since he lost a friend and a rival.

It’s no doubt Tongai pushed Macheso to dig deep into his bag of tricks since there was healthy competition.

Both Macheso and Tongai were always on their toes since fans demanded more.

l LEGACY

 Eleven years after his death, there were genuine fears his legacy would be interred with his remains.

However, Utakataka Express heir apparent, Peter Moyo, reckons he has done his best to ensure that he keeps the family name relevant.

He, however, conceded it’s hard filling his big shoes.

“I have always admitted that it’s hard to fill Tongai Moyo’s gap and I am happy that some people now agree with me,” said Peter.

“I ventured into music by default and I think I have tried my best even though some fans wanted me to replicate my daddy’s magic, especially the voice and, of course, coming up with my own hits.

“I’m happy that I have done my best by keeping the core of the band although some have a tendency of leaving and coming back.

“As we remember his legacy on the 15th of October, I will always be grateful to fans who have been there for me and the family,” he said.

Young Igwe, as Peter is fondly known, said he has managed to stay afloat due to his resilience and hunger to succeed.

“I can brag that my group is arguably one of the best groups on stage. My real fans know that and I hope my father is happy wherever he is.

“As a family, we cherish all the good things that he taught us,” he said.

l TRIBUTE SHOWS 

As has become the norm, Tongai’s life is celebrated in October each year.

During the lockdown, Peter had to hold virtual commemorations but this year, he will meet old and new Utakataka Express fans.

“I have lined up a number of shows as part of the commemorations with the biggest one set for Jongwe Corner on Sunday.

“I have invited Baba Harare, First Farai, Sulu and Andy Muridzo as part of the line-up.

“There are two more shows to be held in Marondera and Mutare.

“The main purpose of the shows is to remember our hero like what the Marley family does in honour of late reggae prophet Bob Marley.”

l RELATIONS

Peter said he was determined to keep sound relations with other artists, especially Macheso.

“My approach is to maintain good relations with elders in the game.

“I can only mature by seeking wisdom from elders.

“I’m not even ashamed to humble myself before the elders and that is why I have been performing alongside my father Alick Macheso.

“There is no way we can ignore these legends who paved the way for us,” he said.