Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Afro-fusion star Ashton “Mbeu” Nyahora has every reason to walk with a spring in his step after enjoying a successful 2025 season.
The 33-year-old musician, who honed his craft under the mentorship of the late Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi at the Pakare Paye Arts Centre in Norton, says he is determined to close the year on a high note.
Mbeu, however, revealed that the year started on a difficult footing after he was involved in an accident on January 1, 2025, just a day before his second-born child’s birthday.
“I can see the grace of the Lord now that I’ve managed to end the year on a high note, considering all that I went through in my life. This year started on a bad note after that accident, which left me nursing neck and back injuries.
“I needed some time to recover and even performed some of my shows in pain, which I tried to hide from my fans,” he shared.
“I’m now in a better space, but that accident was bad news for me. I’m glad I managed to survive. These are some of the things we should always thank God for. As the year comes to an end, we can’t thank God enough for protecting us and opening new opportunities for us.”
Mbeu, whose outfit, Mhodzi Tribe, has produced stars such as red-hot diva Feli Nandi and Watson “Jay Watta” Chidzomba Junior, said he is determined to keep pushing forward despite losing the two key members.
“In music, we adapt and make do with the resources at hand. Some individuals who had become part of the Mhodzi Tribe have moved on and started new projects, which is a positive sign that I’m not just an ordinary artiste but also a mentor.
“I always get along with current and former members. I’ve also changed my management this year, and I am happy with the stellar job they are doing for me and our brand,” he said.
Unlike many bands that hire equipment ahead of performances, Mbeu is steadily building his own complete kit.
“This year, we managed to purchase some of the equipment we need for live shows. Relying on hired instruments is costly. An artiste should have their own tools of the trade and not depend on rentals.”
With just a few weeks left before the typically lucrative festive season, Mbeu said he is determined not to end the year empty-handed.
“I’ve recorded three singles, namely Mukwambo, Mum, and Kunaka, which are due for release next week if all goes according to plan. I have two more singles coming before the end of the year, with my sixth album set to be released next year.”
Asked why he has been releasing a series of singles instead of an album, Mbeu said the decision was driven by economics.
“I wasn’t only producing singles, but they actually have accompanying videos, which are less expensive compared to producing a whole album. I’ve always invested heavily in visuals, which can easily sell my brand compared to relying solely on audio.”
Mbeu, whose popularity continues to rise with each passing day, also praised regional event organisers for recognising his talent.
“I will remember the 2025 season as a period where new doors opened in my career after I toured Mozambique and South Africa. The Mozambican tour was facilitated by Stewart Sekuma, and I performed there as a solo act. In South Africa, I had a wonderful time with my fans, who really showed me amazing love,” he recounted.
He went on to applaud fans who continue to support his band’s journey.
“I’m one of the hardest-working people, holding no less than three shows per week since I lead a 15-piece band. It’s such a dynamic and large group, and we all believe we should ‘eat what we kill’. Therefore, I can’t afford to rest on my laurels; I need to work hard to provide for my band and family as well.
“On that note, I’d like to thank the corporates that have been booking us for a series of private functions, which is a plus for my brand,” he said.
He also honoured his late mentor, Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi, whose 50th anniversary in music will be celebrated posthumously on December 6 at Pakare Paye Arts Centre.
“Like I always say, I will always remain a Pakare Paye son, something I’m proud to share with the public. It was in Norton where it all started, and I’m proud of my roots,” he added.
Mbeu is among several artistes who benefitted from Tuku’s guidance, joining the ranks of Gary Tight, Donald Kanyuchi, Sarungano and Chidzomba Junior. Meanwhile, the crooner is set to share the stage with Vimbai Zimuto on Friday before staging another show in Rhodene, Masvingo on Saturday.
