Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
TALENTED Chimurenga musician Kurai Makore is confident he will strike gold with his upcoming third album, “Dzimwe Nguva”.
The 37-year-old crooner, who is currently enjoying a successful spell and consistently filling venues to capacity, will unveil his album on August 8 at Sherwood Golf Club in Mabelreign, Harare.
As the frontman of The Black Lions, Makore is optimistic that this third album will further enhance the successful run he has enjoyed throughout the year. However, he insists that he will remain focused, despite being one of the most sought-after musicians in the industry.
The launch of “Dzimwe Nguva” is set to feature six brand-new songs alongside four bonus tracks that he released as singles over the past three years.
The six tracks include “Manhanga Matete”, “Sango”, “Dande”, “Hukama”, “Murume Wangu” and “Nyuchi”.
The bonus tracks are “Gotokoto Juvinari”, “Tombie”, “Zvinonetsa” and “Rombe”.
All the songs on this album were composed by Makore, except for “Zvinonetsa”, which was written and composed by Dr Thomas “Mukanya” Mapfumo.
The album was recorded at KOM Studios and co-produced by Oscar Chamba and Knowledge Nkoma.
In an interview, Makore told Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub that everything is now in the right frame of mind ahead of the launch.
“We are looking forward to the album launch set for Sherwood Golf Club on August 8, and we have almost covered 95 percent of all the logistics required,” said Makore.
“I have been working on this album for months now, and I am confident it will be embraced by fans. I prefer to let my music do the talking as we keep working hard.”
Makore, who has just been roped into the Kadoma Music Festival after impressing festival organisers, can’t believe the fame he has garnered.
“To be honest, it feels like a dream to me because I can see the good hand of God and my ancestors who continue guiding me.
“Of course, I entered the music scene late, but now fans and promoters are rewarding me. I won’t disappoint them,” stated the energetic performer.
The former bus conductor and Mbare vendor revealed he is now in the right space after finding his calling.
“I tried many things in life, but it is music that is now bringing food to my table. As I launch this album next month, I can only appeal to old and new Chimurenga fans to come and celebrate with me. The show is special to me since it means a lot to me as an artist and composer.”
The United Kingdom-bound singer firmly believes the album will give him more confidence ahead of his first international tour. He is billed to share the stage alongside his uncle, Mukanya, who is considering retirement from the game after close to six decades of performing. Mukanya recently turned 80 years old and has been mulling retirement.
However, Makore —the heir apparent to the Chimurenga throne — has vowed to convince Mukanya to rescind his decision.
“He is my father figure, and as such, I will have to talk to him and hear his reasons for retiring. I don’t think it will be easy for someone who has been a musician for all these years to quit.”
Known for his high-energy performances and meticulously choreographed acts, Makore has captured the attention of many promoters since being introduced to the music scene by his uncle.
Not only has he received the green light to pursue Chimurenga music and perform Mukanya’s songs, but he will also share the stage with his idol in Birmingham on August 23.
Makore made his mark in the music industry in 2020 with his debut album, “Gara Unzwe,” but it was his second album, “Ngoma Kurira,” released in 2022, that heralded a new era for him, leading to performances at major local festivals.
He has been excelling in live shows ever since.
Meanwhile, Makore is set to share the stage with rhumba musicians Juntal and mbira princess Diana “Samkange” Mangwenya at the album launch.
The excitement surrounding Makore’s album launch is palpable.
He will also fly to the UK after the launch, thanks to UK-based show promoter Joab Mugugu of Phab Entertainment Promotions.
Mugugu’s renowned stable has been in the industry for over two decades, and hosting such a significant event is a testament to their credibility.
“We are honoured by the trust bestowed upon us by the legendary Mukanya and do not take it for granted. Anyone who knows him understands that he is a perfectionist, particularly regarding sound quality. His rehearsals resemble a real show, so providing him with perfect sound is crucial,” said the promoter in a recent interview.
