adminBrenda Phiri Arts Correspondent
Songwriter Gibbs Chitate is establishing himself as a serious jazz artiste following the success of his third album entitled “Ukama-Relationships”. A marketing manager by profession, Chitate has been working behind the scenes for over a decade, composing songs for the likes of Mathew “Mateo” Kaunda, Willom Tight, the late Andy Brown and Tendai Mupfurutsa.
He, however, believes his band Afro Explosion is ripe to go it alone to make his own name.
“I am an improved version of myself with each album and my upcoming album serves to prove this. I did a lot of corrections and experiments on different sounds to make it unique. I feel the album is a lot more refreshing than ‘Gogogoi’ of 2002 and ‘Tofara’ of 2009,” he said.
The 13-track album explores the general relations among people hence its title. The songs, “Anosara Nenhaka”, “Nature” and “Zvidhakwa” are likely to give listeners a lot to think about.
“Iwewe”, on the other hand, can certainly leave one blushing as it is an outstanding love song where Chitate promises to marry the woman of his dreams.
“I have put in place a series of programmes where we are going to embark in live performances around the country to take the music to the people. I am also looking into releasing quality follow up videos to the songs,” he said.
The Glen Norah-based artiste also took the time to give a word or two on how upcoming artistes can stay relevant in the game.
“I want to urge young musicians to maintain their originality as it is a recipe for success in entertainment. They should not look for what is currently paying, but rather take a leaf from the likes of Dembo, Tuku and Macheso who have taken the time to build their brands,” he said.
He added that it is an added advantage in music if one is a born artiste.
“Anyone can turn into a musician but if it runs in your veins then you will go further,” he concluded.
Online Reporter