Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
KURAI Makore has hailed sungura ace Alick Macheso as an oasis of knowledge and wisdom whose experience should be fully utilised by the younger generations of artists.
The Black Lions Band leader, who recently returned from his second UK tour where he shared the stage with Macheso, said he came back a wiser musician after learning from one of the country’s finest.
“I didn’t know that good people of Baba Sharo’s calibre still exist and his wisdom about life, art and family is unmatched,” Makore told Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub.
“Before I went to the UK, I was a bit mentally drained by what was happening on social media, but after meeting him there, I came home in high spirits.
“I can’t share what he told me blow by blow but his wisdom made me wiser than I was.
“To me, Baba Sharo was heaven-sent because he was bold enough to tell me that I should keep working hard and become the person I have always wanted to be.”
Makore commended Macheso for believing in his talent and offering him valuable advice during their time in the UK.
“To me, superstar Macheso is a father figure and he has always seen my potential from day one.
“Being recommended by someone like him is more than a triumph because he keeps pushing me to work hard.
“He is not only a humble man but also a wise elder who can certainly change your life if you listen to his advice and words of wisdom.”
Makore said the two musicians were also planning further collaborations and performances.
The Black Lions are preparing to release their fourth album in October.
“We have already done part of the recording and it is my wish to have something new when I tour Zimbabwe with Alick Macheso soon.
“I think I have shared the stage with him as a supporting act on five occasions and, on the 11th of this month, I will also support him in Masvingo.
“This partnership was made possible by the professional relationship I have with him.”
Makore, who was recently caught up in a social media storm involving his uncle, Thomas “Mukanya” Mapfumo, has vowed to move on and focus on building his career.
“We can’t keep discussing the past, even though people are curious to understand what happened and how I am coping.
“We are moving on, and currently we are in the studio working on our fourth album.
“I am already doing my work and I now spend most of my time in the village where I am involved in horticulture and goat-rearing.
“I am also a village head and I would like to slow down on social media.”
Makore announced his arrival on the music scene with his debut album, ‘Gara Unzwe’, in 2020.
He followed it up with ‘Ngoma Kurira’ in 2022, an album that heralded a new chapter in his career and opened doors to performances at major local festivals.
Last year, he released his third album, ‘Dzimwe Nguva’, with the fourth project expected in October.
Despite the controversies that have surrounded his career, Makore appears determined to let his music speak for him while drawing strength from his rural roots and the people who have remained supportive throughout his journey.
With new music in the pipeline, more local shows lined up and a growing relationship with Macheso, the Black Lions leader appears focused on the future — and convinced that staying grounded will remain an important part of his success.
