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AILING Zimbabwean music godfather, Jackson Phiri, might sound a bitter man but one of his products appreciates his input.
After grooming the likes of Thomas “Mukanya” Mapfumo, the late Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi, Tineyi Chikupo, Clive Malunga, Elisha Josam among others, Phiri still feels unloved.
However, one of his products – Stepheni Pedzi – has been keeping in touch with the mentor.
The 36-year-old has also been bailing him out with goodies.
“I came to Norton around 2008 and I started linking up with him in 2009.
“He taught me every aspect of playing music between 2009 to 2015.
“Of course, I had the passion for music but to be able to play the most guitars was because of his huge influence,” said Pedzi.
The singer, who leads Mangiza Clan Band, believes Phiri has a special calling.
“I was humbled by the commitment he showed me when I approached him in need of help.
“He told me to be patient enough if I was entertaining any hopes of making it big in life.
“I took his advice seriously and now I have five albums to my credit even though I am still an upcoming artist.
“My songs are popular on Radio Zimbabwe and National FM.”
The father of five said he also received support from Mbira dzeNhariria founder, Tendayi Gahamadze.
“I used to stay close to Tendayi Gahamadze who is also a resident of Katanga where Jackson Phiri resides.
He has been working with Nicholas Zakaria and the two recorded a single titled Pandatadza Ndiudzeiwo.
“It was a dream production because many artists have been shutting me out and I was humbled by Madzibaba’s humility.
“We are currently working on the visuals of my single and I hope they will be done before the end of the month.
“He is one of the people who gives me hope and the zeal to continue working hard.”
Online Reporter