Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
TALENTED musician Admire “Chief Hwenje” Sibanda believes versatility is ingrained in his DNA.
Known as a revolutionary exponent, Chief Hwenje had long been a staunch supporter of the ruling party, yet he emphasised his ability to tackle a wide array of subjects in his music.
Chief Hwenje believes he has nothing to prove and wants to showcase his versatility as a creative genius with much to offer.
In a recent interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, following the success of his latest album, “Chiedza Chasamere,” he expressed, “I have always been a versatile singer, capable of performing gospel, jiti, sungura and even Chimurenga tracks.”
While many recognise him as a firm supporter of the ruling party — a choice he stands by without regret — he asserted, “I am versatile, my brother.
“I am also a Christian and a family man, raised in a God-fearing environment. I have always enjoyed singing in church and later in school choirs. Those who know me well can attest that I am a good person who finds joy in music. “As such, we have been holding a series of shows countrywide with other musicians from different genres, singing love songs, jiti and sungura. It’s not always about politics; we are good to go performing other genres.”
Reflecting on his seventh album, which features four powerful gospel tracks — “Mutambo Wedefe,” “Dai Murivamwe” (featuring Kudzie Nyakudya), “Tenzi,” and the title track “Chiedza Chasamere” — he demonstrated his capability to transcend beyond a single genre.
“Those who have listened to my latest album have been giving us positive feedback, and we have simply accepted it. “As a youthful singer, I would like to be remembered as one of the most creative geniuses this country has ever seen in this industry. We will continue doing our best to forge new relationships.”
Known for his well-choreographed and energy-sapping performances on stage, Chief Hwenje has been collaborating with fellow musicians, which has set him apart.
“I have done several collaborations with fellow musicians, including Machanic Manyeruke, Nicholas Zakaria, Mathias Mhere, Suluman Chimbetu, Romeo Gasa, and Norman Tapambwa. I have another collaboration with Slizer (real name Naledi Kaisara) from Botswana, and of course, Obert Chari, who has become one of my closest friends in showbiz. Together, we have created masterpieces that are doing very well in the market.”
He also expressed his willingness to assist less privileged yet talented musicians in Zimbabwe to make an impression.
“In this industry, we should always think of others, especially upcoming stars who are struggling but still possess a lot of talent.
We can’t let this talent go to waste and fail to achieve international breakthroughs while we call ourselves influential musicians. “We can also extend the same favour to veteran musicians who have been in the game for years but are struggling to make ends meet.
These legends need our support, and this is another area that I have been working on. The first thing we did was, with the year coming to an end, he has vowed to continue investing in visuals and ensuring he makes an impression.
“In this era, we need to place special interest in visuals and boost our online presence.
Gone are the days when people relied solely on old methods of marketing and selling their musical products.
“As responsible musicians, we need to embrace the internet fully to ensure we continue to capture the hearts of many who need our expertise in this industry,” he added.
He vowed to record more music that can transform people’s lives and become a truly influential figure addressing serious matters affecting locals. Besides his latest album, “Chiedza Chasamere,” Chief Hwenje boasts a rich catalogue of other productions laden with refreshing songs. Some are therapeutic, while others affirm his new role as a social commentator tackling contemporary issues with depth.
These albums include “Hwenje Tirimusango,” “Chembere Ine mhanza,” “Judhas Mutengesi,” “Polonium 210,” “Ndakavaremera,” and “I Don’t Care.” As he revels in his creative edge, Chief Hwenje wants to be remembered as a versatile musician who touched the hearts of millions during his lifetime.
