Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
MARCH 6, 2006 will always remain a dark day for the Chimbetu family after they lost Naison “Dr Nero” Chimbetu, co-founder of Marxist Brothers.
Dr Nero passed away aged 46 after a long illness, leaving a deep void still felt in the showbiz landscape.
Tragically, his brother, Simon “Chopper” Chimbetu, had also died on August 15, 2005, marking a double tragedy for the family within a year.
Although Dr Nero may have been less popular and charismatic compared to Chopper, his exceptional vocal talent and contributions to the Dendera genre were, and still are, immense.
Twenty years after Dr Nero’s death, the beat still continues, and the honour now falls on Tryson Chimbetu to keep the fire burning.
From 2006, as a schoolboy, he was already part of the set-up, mastering the art under the great tutelage of his father.
Speaking ahead of the 20th commemoration of Dr Nero, Tryson noted that he has learned a lot to reach where he is today.
“We are planning something for the anniversary, and it has been 20 years of learning about life, evolving as a musician, and personal growth,” he stressed.
“Last year, we held an event at Steakhouse in Harare, and it went accordingly as we remembered our legend. This year, something is definitely coming, and fans should expect a memorable and fun-filled anniversary. It will be a special event for the family because we want to honour our legend.”
Tryson, who has survived a well-publicised battle against drug and substance abuse, noted that he is in the right frame of mind.
“I am fine, and I can only say I have learned many lessons in my life that I have grasped. I will always thank God for this gift of life. Life without my father for 20 years was not easy, but I am glad I have learned how to take care of my life, rise where I have fallen, and continue doing the right thing.”
He also shared one of the best pieces of advice he received from Dr Nero, who complimented his late uncle during their formative years in showbiz.
“One thing I loved about my father is that he chose creativity for me but wanted me to pursue a career of my choice. He sent me to school, and I think I made the right decision by choosing music. Academically, I can always enrol in any programme of my choice because school will never end. I am glad he laid a foundation for me and my other siblings.”
Acknowledging the people who assisted him in the past two decades, without his father, Tryson added:
“The list is endless, and I could go on and on. I am just glad that my family and other individuals have always supported us. The past two decades have also supported us, and I am glad that we are still moving on.”
Last year, ahead of Dr Nero’s 19th anniversary, some of his close friends and former colleagues, like Foster “The Force” Mkweu and Moffart Nyamupandu, hailed him as a creative genius. Tryson also led the glowing tribute for the G7 Commandos leader, whose life deserves to be celebrated in style each year.
He recalled how his father gave him a platform at Mahombekombe Bar in Kariba while he was in Form 1 around 2001. Dr Nero’s widow, Estere Antonio, told Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub that she still misses her late husband.
“It feels like it was just a month ago when Naison died and left me with his family, and now I have several grand-children that I hope he is guiding from wherever he is,” she stressed.
Dr Nero’s younger brother Allan Chimbetu also recalled being raised with the best siblings as the youngest.
“Growing up in Chegutu, I was always in safe hands because I had loving brothers, one of whom was Naison, who used to protect me from bullies. It’s quite sad that my three brothers — Simon, Naison, and Briam — all died a year apart.
