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Langalakhe Mabena
When Elvis Mathe, otherwise known as Ma-Eli, died in a terrific road accident last year in August, Insimbi ZeZhwane music band followers were devastated by the sad news, which meant the voice of Ma-Eli would never be heard again.
Many thought his death and that of the group’s drummer Thembinkosi “Maviri” Mpofu would mark the demise of Insimbi ZeZhwane.
The surviving leader and co-founder of the group, Meluleki “Brema” Moyo vowed Insimbi ZeZhwane would not perish after the tragic accident — not under his watch.
In fulfilling the promise to keep the group intact, Brema has successfully led the group, as they managed to record three songs Inhlansi, Ama Agenda and Iso Ngeso, which were released late last month at Hillbrow Underground in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The singles were also launched with a performance at Happy Valley Tavern in Bulawayo, last month.
On the new tracks Brema said they worked with Frank “High Tower” Masuku and Ergan Nzima on the lead vocals, who made sure that the group retained its distinctive style of music.
He also revealed that it was not easy recording the songs without Ma-Eli, as he said he never imagined to work or record Insimbi ZeZhwane’s music without the late.
“Since our brothers passed away, things have not been easy for us as a band. We are grateful to our fans because they helped us cope with the deaths of our members. Last year, we did different shows without Ma-Eli and Maviri and people came in numbers to support us. This gave us hope and reason to soldier on with our music, and we are proud to have recorded these three tracks in honour of them.
“On the projects, we used two vocalists to add some spice instead of using one voice. Having two or more vocalists will give us stability because when one of them is not available we can turn to the other. I am very proud of Ergan, who lifted up his hand and showed us that he wanted to do it (be a vocalist). I know many people did not expect that he would sing, but he showed us he is a leader,” said Brema.
Despite almost finding the “signature voice” that identifies with Insimbi ZeZhwane, Brema applauded Ergan and High Tower for doing justice on the project, but he emphasised that it will be hard to replace Ma-Eli’s voice and his leadership skills.
“When one listens to the songs, they will agree that our musical composition continues to uphold the band’s customary use of proverbs and sayings, which are integral to our music. The young guys did justice in maintaining our signature music arrangement. We were not trying to replace Ma-Eli because his leadership and vocal skills are unmatched. But we are proud that we are continuing with the music and I know our fallen brothers are also happy where they are,” said Brema.
Meanwhile, a highly anticipated battle for the title of Rhumba King is set to unfold tonight at the Palace Hotel in the heart of Bulawayo, featuring Insimbi ZeZhwane led by Brema versus Clement Magwaza who will be leading the Macrey Super Sounds band, renowned for hits like “Kokotsha.”
The talented outfits will be hosted by Mr Jaiva, while the decks will be manned by DJ Ayaxx, DJ Tetso, and DJ Mandoza.
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter