Sundaymail Editor
Veronica Gwaze
THE animosity between brothers Peter and Obert Tongai Jnr, both sons of the late Tongai ‘Dhewa’ Moyo, appears to have come to an end.
The Utakataka Express founder died of cancer on October 15, 2011.
At the time of the patriarch’s death, Peter was aged 23 while Obert was 11.
Being the eldest, Peter, also known as the Young Igwe, took over the reins at Utakataka Express while Obert pursued his academic studies.
However, after school, Obert formed his own band and named it Utakataka Express, though he suffixes 4×4 to the group’s name.
Naturally, this created a lot of tension between the siblings in the early days as they battled it out for a market share.
Relations between the two became frosty, though both claimed to be “upholding their father’s legacy”.
Peter ostensibly had an upper hand as he inherited the patriarch’s full band, including personnel and instruments.
This, in a way, angered Obert, who thought he had equal rights to their late father’s assets but was being denied access to them.
This and comparisons by fans on who is a better singer between the two musicians deepened their feud.
“Quarrelling started after our father’s death. I developed a lot of anger and it got to an extent that I would just burst whenever Peter’s name was mentioned,” revealed Obert.
“I felt betrayed and deprived of the brotherly love and guidance that I needed.”
The “Cain and Abel” singer even went on to distance himself from his paternal family, accusing them of taking sides with Peter.
Several attempts by some of their close relatives to unite them were futile.
Utakataka Express fans were not amused by the hostility.
They noted the two, Peter and Obert, could create a solid unit if they joined forces.
Their recent brief joint performance at Pamuzinda during the Chipaz-organised Sungura Fest can be testament to their sentiments.
Peter was lined up to perform alongside Alick Macheso, Somandla Ndebele, Leonard Zhakata and Mark Ngwazi.
But he opened up the stage, during his set, for Obert.
The two singers clearly have different strengths and weaknesses with regards to their compositions, vocals and stage work.
“It was not easy to try and get back to talking terms because all communication lines had been cut over the years. We had to engage different mediators for the peace we now have to be possible,” added Obert.
“I am happy that we have finally reunited. Last year, we did our father’s commemoration together and that marked the beginning of a new chapter for us.
“We are now closer and visit each other at our different homes, which was not possible in the past.”
Sharing the stage with his brother, Obert said, was a big thing for him.
“It felt great performing with him and it boosted my confidence and sense of belonging. I want to thank him for including me on his set.
“I am sure our father is smiling from above,” said Obert.
He added that he has a lot to learn from Peter since he is more experienced than him.
“He has a great way of communicating with his band.
“I am learning from him and I am greatly appreciating every step of our bonding.”
Although, currently, there are no plans of working together, Obert reckons steps made thus far are encouraging.
When contacted for comment by The Sunday Mail Society, Peter opted to play his cards close to his chest.
“I am not comfortable talking about it. I prefer to keep our family issues away from the public,” he said.
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