Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Chimurenga music heir apparent Kurai Makore has praised Suluman Chimbetu for recognising his talent, which has now captivated the hearts of millions.
The 37-year-old made this confession during the launch of his third album, titled “Dzimwe Nguva,” held at Sherwood Golf Club in Mabelreign, Harare, last Friday.
In his address during the launch, where former Energy and Power Development Minister Fortune Chasi was the guest of honour, Kurai shared the role Suluman played in shaping his career.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank my brother Sulu, who has not only graced my event and performed but also played a crucial role in my career,” stressed Kurai.
“I can safely say that it was he who discovered my talent at Jazz 105 (now Eastpoint). He knew me as Dr. Thomas Mapfumo’s nephew and called me on stage during one of those album launches where I performed.
“Fans were blown away by my talent, and in no time, many asked me why I wasn’t recording my music. All that happened during that show has changed my life and brought me to where I am today. I can’t thank Sulu enough for the role he played, as I was sitting on my talent.”
In an interview after his performance, Kurai expressed his gratitude for the camaraderie that Sulu showed.
“It’s not easy for someone like him to shelve his own shows to come and support me on this occasion. I will always be humbled by this love, and I wish we had more musicians with Sulu’s heart. This is what we have always needed for the growth of the sector,” he emphasized.
In another interview, Sulu praised Kurai. “It was nice catching up with Kurai Makore during his third album launch. I can safely say that Kurai is someone I have watched and seen making a breakthrough in music. If you look closely at his performances, you can say they are always solid, which has allowed him to attract big crowds like these,” he stated. He vowed to continue supporting Kurai should he need it.
Turning to the launch, Kurai attracted one of his rare and highly appreciative audiences in the past three years after announcing his arrival on the musical scene. United Kingdom-based music promoter Joab Mugugu of Phab Entertainment Promotions, who is behind Kurai’s maiden tour of the country, was also in attendance alongside Mono Mukundu.
As has become the norm, Mono spiced up the launch when he joined Kurai on stage to play lead guitar. Prior to Kurai’s performance, Ashton “Mbeu” Nyahora and Juntal warmed up the stage for him.
The Black Lions Band leader’s new album carries 10 tracks, including “Manhanga Matete,” “Sango,” “Dande,” “Hukama,” “Murume Wangu,” “Nyuchi,” and four bonus tracks: “Gotokoto Juvinari,” “Tombie,” “Zvinonetsa,” and “Rombe.”
Most of the songs were composed by Makore, except for “Zvinonetsa,” which was written and composed by his uncle, Dr. Thomas “Mukanya” Mapfumo. Recorded at KOM Studios and co-produced by Oscar Chamba and Knowledge Nkoma, the album is expected to propel him to greater acclaim, judging by the positive feedback during his live performances.
Makore first made his mark in the music industry with his debut album “Gara Unzwe” in 2020, but it was his second album, “Ngooma Kurira,” released in 2022, that heralded a new era for him, leading to performances at major local festivals. After receiving his uncle’s blessing to perform Black Unlimited songs, he has successfully blended them into his own playlist, making his act enjoyable.
Kurai’s third album launch coincides with his upcoming performance in the United Kingdom alongside his uncle on August 23 in Birmingham. This concert is touted as Mukanya’s farewell show before his retirement and will mark a significant moment as the iconic, US-based musician passes the baton to Makore during his last UK tour.
UK show promoter Joab Mugugu of Phab Entertainment Promotions highlighted the palpable excitement surrounding Mukanya’s farewell show featuring Makore.
“We are honoured by the trust bestowed upon us by the legendary Mukanya and do not take it for granted. Anyone who knows him understands that he is a perfectionist, especially regarding sound quality. His rehearsals resemble a real show, so providing him with perfect sound is crucial,” he emphasized.
Mugugu also noted the overwhelming demand for Mukanya’s UK show, with many inquiries from Europe and fans booking hotels and seeking tickets.
All this is happening while Kurai is enjoying a purple patch in his career.
Now that he has an album to his credit, fans in the UK should look forward to a memorable event.
