Chronicle Editor
Mthabisi Tshuma, [email protected]
Versatile musicians Mzoe 7 and Thandy Dhlana have joined hands to honour the legacy of one of the country’s football giants, Highlanders, along with their former and current players, and fans through a single titled “Tshilamoya”.
It is due for release on Friday. Tshilamoya is a moniker associated with Highlanders. The track was produced by Smashmaker, while the visuals were shot by Keaitse Films.
Mzoe 7 said that through the song, they aim to ensure the community behind Bosso, as Highlanders is fondly known, continues to appreciate the work of the club that has kept communities united through football.
“I wrote the song with a different beat in my head, but kudos to Smashmaker — he had another awesome idea and developed it into the current masterpiece. The song celebrates Highlanders and the stars who inspired us growing up. We have many unsung heroes and untold stories in our country, so I chose to share my story about some of the legends who really inspired us.
“I grew up in Entumbane, where our house was along the road people used when going to town or Barbourfields Stadium. We would always hype the supporters and feel like part of the parades on their way to watch the game. We could even hear the celebrations from our area when Bosso scored.
“We sang the names of stars we wished to meet and those we met. I want the next generation to know about these great superheroes, like Tapiwa Kapini, Biya (whom I still wish to meet in person), Ngodzo, Madinda, Mabaleka and many more. Let’s keep their legacy intact,” Mzoe7 said.
The musician expressed his hope that one day, the film industry will produce a project that ensures the legacy of Bosso lives forever.
“I wish one day a film could be made about every great individual who has ever been part of this big club. Highlanders have inspired generations — even at school, we would call each other by the names of football stars when playing, showing how much of an impact they have on our lives.”
The video features Thandy Dhlana, Dr 2Oh, Sindiso Dube, Mandisi, Sleek the Geek Twin, Elemento, Highlanders fans, Lexy, taxi drivers, Luveve Academy and rank marshals from Egodini.
“This project shows that being a fan of Highlanders is like being part of a family, a great community to be proud of. Lovemore Majaivana, Stanley Nyathi, Sisa Senkosi, Zex Manatsa, Khuxman and many other creatives have done songs about the greatness of the team and through this song, I wish a long life to all the legends,” said Mzoe 7.
He said Thandy Dhlana brought harmonies and a soulful element to the song.
“She’s one of the most hardworking, talented female artistes and we’re definitely working on more songs. Smashmaker is a rising producer who I believe is changing the music scene with a different sound.”
Moving on, Mzoe7 shared his dream of performing before Bosso football matches and at other great events to show his love for the team. — @mthabisi_mthire
Online Reporter