Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena [email protected]
Zimbabwean guitarist and music producer James Buzuzi, popularly known as “The Guitar Man”, has died.
Veteran guitarist Clive Mono Mukundu confirmed Buzuzi’s death.
“I’d like to inform the Zimbabwean arts community that we have just received word from reliable sources that jazz guitarist James ‘Guitar Man’ Buzuzi has passed away. We currently have no information regarding funeral arrangements. Once details are available, we will share them,” said Mukundu.
Buzuzi was widely respected in the music industry for his exceptional guitar skills and his contributions as a session musician and producer. Throughout his career, he worked extensively in Zimbabwe’s music industry and was well known for his collaborations with The Other Four Band featuring Patience Musa, Mateo and Friends, Willom Tight, and several other musical projects.
In Bulawayo, Buzuzi was particularly known for his work with the Afro-fusion outfit Bongo Love, a group founded in Mzilikazi suburb. As part of the ensemble, he performed alongside John Mambira (drums and vocals), Mpho Mambira (marimba) and Trymore Jombo (mbira).
He joined Bongo Love during the group’s international touring years and became one of its key instrumentalists.
His distinctive guitar work featured prominently in the band’s live performances and international tours across the United States, Europe and Africa, where Bongo Love earned acclaim for its energetic stage shows and cultural workshops.
Buzuzi built a reputation as one of Zimbabwe’s finest guitarists, with many artistes relying on his expertise both in the studio and on stage.
