Online Reporter
Mutsawashe Geja
YOUTHFUL musical ensemble, Fusion 5 Mangwiro, has called for fairness and unity in the local music industry.
Fusion 5 Mangwiro, whose growing catalogue has been endorsed by many, believes local musicians should support one another instead of allowing favouritism and sabotage to hinder the growth of the industry. In an interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, group spokesperson Takura Shelton Njikizana, popularly known as Taku-Stylez, expressed disappointment over what it described as the unfair treatment of some artists.
“We do not love the way artists are being sabotaged. Music is supposed to bring people together, not divide us. “Every artist deserves an equal opportunity to showcase their talent and grow their career,” said Takura.
He said it was very worrying that Zimbabweans are boycotting their own local talent and giving South African musicians more money and support.
“There is no growth of local artists because even their own people are not streaming their music.
“We need to start supporting home-grown talent if we want the industry to grow,” he said.
He believes that Zimbabwe has an abundance of musical talent across different genres and that every musician deserves recognition regardless of the style of music they perform.
The group singled out gospel musicians, saying they are often excluded from shows because of the misconception that they should perform for free.
“Some people don’t invite gospel singers because they believe spiritual people do not need money.
“That is not fair. “Gospel musicians also invest their time, money and talent into producing quality music and deserve to be paid, just like any other artist,” they said. According to the group, music is both an art and a profession, and every performer should be treated with dignity and respect.
They urged event organisers, promoters and music lovers to embrace diversity by supporting all genres instead of favouring only a select few.
Fusion 5 Mangwiro said songs such as “Babe Rangu Inyama” reflect the group’s commitment to producing music that resonates with ordinary Zimbabweans while promoting positive values and celebrating local culture. The musicians believe that a united entertainment industry will create more opportunities for both established and upcoming artists, ultimately strengthening Zimbabwe’s creative sector.
The group believes the future of Zimbabwean music lies in collaboration rather than competition, with every artist given a chance to shine and contribute to the country’s rich musical heritage.
