Sundaymail Editor
Sunday Mail Society
MUSICIAN Texas Tekenya (born Peter Manganda), a former member of Andy Muridzo’s Jeetaz Band, last week officially launched a 10-track album titled “Munamato waGwenyambira”.
The album is made up of songs such as “Zvanaka Machembere”, “Munamato waGwenyambira”, “Dzinonwa Muna Save”, “Huranda”, “Dumbu” and “Maideiko Mambo”.
In an interview with The Sunday Mail Society, the 29-year-old said he wants to keep traditional music alive.
Through his music, he urges Zimbabweans to respect their culture.
In “Munamato waGwenyambira”, he bemoans the erosion of traditional African customs and values.
“This song is a prayer to God, asking Him to help us know and understand where we came from. As Zimbabweans, we have abandoned our culture and embraced Western lifestyles. This must stop,” he said.
Tekenya called on upcoming artistes to switch to traditional music.
“The majority of upcoming musicians are into hip-hop, dancehall and gospel music. However, I am urging them to switch to traditional music so that this genre is kept alive. It is our duty to make sure future generations find the genre still in existence.”
The former Jeetaz Band member is, however, pleased with the renewed interest in traditional music among music followers.
“I observed that the number of people attending our live shows is increasing. This clearly indicates that traditional music is rising from the doldrums.”
The musician put up a flawless performance during the album launch.
His eight-member group, which was dressed in colourful animal skins, performed well into the early hours of the morning.
After leaving the Jeetaz Band in 2017, he went on to release his debut album “Majudha” the same year.
Other songs that complete his latest album are “Nzou Ichidya Mushonga”, “Mhuri Yangu”, “Mwana Anoita Rombe” and “Moyo Wadzungaira”.
Online Reporter