Online Reporter
Trust Khosa-Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Comedian Freddy “Kapfupi” Manjalima is on cloud nine following the release of the soundtrack for his upcoming blockbuster movie, which features Cody Tinker and Ireland-based filmmaker Caroline Nyaka-Chana.
Produced by Otata Ali, known by his sobriquet Alishious, this Chewa track – titled “Mengdhadhe” – marks a significant comeback for Kapfupi, showcasing his versatility in collaboration with the multi-talented Nyaka-Chana.
Nyaka-Chana’s expertise spans dance, film and television, music, theatre and presenting, making her a formidable partner in this project. Her collaboration with Kapfupi has been embraced as fantastic news for the creative sector.
“I am back to my best and we mean business this time around,” Kapfupi stated, reflecting on their recording session with part of the cast.
“It was a marvel working with these versatile individuals who know what they are doing. Despite her success overseas, Nyaka-Chana has been looking for me over the years,” he emphasised.
“Fans should expect nothing short of fireworks because we’re not joking this time around. It’s always good to return to work on a new movie after everything I’ve been through.”
Nyaka-Chana, who left Harare earlier this week, echoed Kapfupi’s sentiments as she praised the producer.
“The producer is based in Harare, and he is an amazing soul. He’s an absolute genius. It’s rare that I come across a producer who knows which instruments should come in as soon as I sing a cappella. So it’s something I struggle with when I’m abroad because not many can do that, which I always say – Zimbabwe has the best talent, no matter the area,” she stated.
“The themes being tackled in the song are significant. Basically, this one is the soundtrack to the movie with the working title Dots. It’s the accompanying song. I’m trying to speak without giving any spoilers.”
Giving insight into the movie, Nyaka-Chana said it centres on Tambu, who is married to three men – a rarity in African and Zimbabwean culture.
“It’s rare that in Zimbabwe or Africa, they say that a woman has barika. So this is really interesting to follow her journey and what happens with the three suitors.”
She also revealed it was a marvel working with Kapfupi and Cody in this production.
“The experience of working with Kapfupi and Cody was absolutely phenomenal. For me and Kapfupi, we have always said, ‘Let’s do a cultural track together.’ He’s one of my biggest and favourite artists, and I like his song ‘Chikwama’.
“So we wanted to follow that spirit, that same sound of ‘Chikwama’. We hope we’ll do better with this one,” she stressed. Nyaka-Chana also praised Cody for his talent.
“What was also interesting was that Cody, the Rank Marshall, is a fan of Kapfupi. So we arranged for them to meet each other. The video is just so humbling to watch when they meet.”
She added, “It was just a special moment as they met and clicked. Working with these two brothers of mine is just absolutely epic. I loved every moment of it. Cody sings in Shona, and so does Kapfupi, while I did the Chewa lyrics. It’s just out of this world. We hope everyone will enjoy it.”
Nyaka-Chana, who is a perfectionist, said they have been working on both the movie and soundtrack for a couple of weeks.
“We went to the actual studio two months ago, and we wanted it to be perfect. Freddy (Kapfupi) was awesome as he helped us a lot in the composition of this track.
“He showed us how amazing and versatile he is. As for Cody, he simply complemented us, and we created something magical.”
