Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
MUTARE-BASED sungura legend, Hosiah Chipanga, has expressed his gratitude for the grace of the Lord as he approaches his 74th birthday, set for February 21.
The Vaparidzi Veshoko leader, who has been active since 1979, claims he is content with the life he is leading.
With 47 years of experience and good health as he turns 74, Chipanga balances his music career, family responsibilities and farming with caution.
Speaking to Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub from his Nyazura farm, Chipanga said he is still as strong as a fiddle.
“I am turning 74 on the 21st of this month, and I can’t thank God enough for all these years I have lived on this earth,” he said.
“I have lost many peers but God has been wonderful to me.
“It’s not easy losing your peers but I gain strength from the people who have always surrounded me.
“I continue to pray for more good years of progress and hard work.”
As he looks ahead to the first half of the year, Chipanga assured fans that he has much in store for them.
“At the moment, I am busy at my farm in Nyazura where I have planted maize and I have been spending much of my time there.
“I also have a small plot in Watsomba, which is another rural home I take care of, along with my Damngamvura home in Mutare urban.
“I am a multi-tasking man who doesn’t believe in putting all my eggs in one basket.”
While many artists from his generation lament their struggles to embrace technology and monetise their work, Chipanga acknowledges that there is still much to learn from younger generations of stars.
“It’s true that most of the artists from our generation are lagging behind, but to be honest, some of us have always had a fall back plan. In my case, farming has been sustaining me.
“Technologically, we will do our best, but we still believe in media like radio, which can reach the remotest parts of the country,” he said.
Musically, Chipanga said he was determined not to throw in the towel.
“While I am busy at my farm, I still find time to record good music. Fans should expect something new around Easter.
“By then, I think I will be finished with it, as I strongly believe in delivering quality music.
“This will be my 30th album, and I am happy and content with everything that has come my way.”
He also offered insights to the new crop of emerging artists who are finding fame and fortune.
“I want to advise them to take good care of themselves and make money while at their peak.
“We entered the music industry in different eras, and for them, it is a plus that they are doing well in music.
“They need to seize their opportunities because failing to do so will lead to regret when their careers are over,” he said.
He added:
“What we need now is to collaborate with these youngsters and see how they are succeeding for the good of the industry.
“We can also learn from young minds because we are all in the same industry.
“It’s never too late for us to change the mindset we have carried over the years as the old guard.”
However, Chipanga’s heart aches as many artists from his generation have either passed away or fallen by the wayside.
He belongs to the same generation as the late Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi, Leonard Dembo, James Chimombe, Ketai Muchawaya, among others.
