Keyboard player pays tribute to mentor Bob Nyabinde

December has cast a shadow over the local music community, claiming the lives of beloved artistes; Terry Gee, gospel sensation Eric Pheli Moyo and jazz maestro Bob Nyabinde.

The legendary “Headmaster” Nyabinde (68) died on Saturday, having battled with the effects of diabetes since his diagnosis in 2018, which included notably impaired vision.

Nyabinde’s influence extended beyond his musical prowess; he was a mentor who guided and inspired young talents, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

Joel Nyoni, a skilled keyboard player who hails from Bulawayo reminisced about his connection with Nyabinde that dates back to the year 2007. He said their paths crossed when Nyabinde, who was scheduled to perform in Victoria Falls, faced car trouble in Bulawayo. Nyoni’s father came to the rescue, towing Nyabinde’s car, and thus began a profound mentorship.

“I met Nyabinde back in 2007 when he was scheduled to perform at a gala in Victoria Falls. He had to pass through Bulawayo en-route to Victoria Falls and his car got stuck. He enlisted the help of my father to tow the car and that’s when he got introduced to me as a keyboard player,” recalls Nyoni.

Nyabinde handed Nyoni a cassette of his new album at the time, “Terera“, challenging him to try his keyboard skills on three tracks. Their musical synergy became evident during a performance at Club 747 in Bulawayo, marking the beginning of a fruitful collaboration.

Nyoni cherishes his last memory of Nyabinde performing “Chabuda Hapana” at Vivo Safari alongside Pauline Gundidza and the band Nyoni played for at the time.

“Nyabinde was a father figure to me. He was even there at my father’s burial ceremony. He was my mentor,” Nyoni affectionately expressed.

Reflecting on Nyabinde’s hands-on approach, Nyoni shared stories of live recording sessions in Harare, where Nyabinde demonstrated his technical skills by fixing an electric guitar and showcased his craftsmanship in making custom-made guitars.

Throughout his illustrious career, Nyabinde gifted the music world with hits like “Chabuda Hapana” and “Pane Nyaya”. As the music community mourns, Nyoni remains grateful for the mentorship that shaped his musical journey.

Tentatively, a service for Nyabinde is set to be held today at Nyaradzo Funeral parlour in Harare before the body departs for Kwekwe.

An evening service will be held at the artiste’s home in Kwekwe. The musician is expected to be buried tomorrow in Mbizo, Kwekwe. —@MbuleloMpofu