Mbira player regrets recording leaked song

Arron Nyamayaro

A MBIRA group leader is regretting recording a song that has made airwaves on social media, which some artists are now claiming ownership.

Russel Pika, 45, of Gungano Redzimbahwe Mbira Group, told H-Metro that his song Kure Nehama’ was leaked by one of his band members before it was recorded only to discover its impact on social media.

“I am the one who composed the Kure Nehama mbira beat song circulating on social media,” said Russel.

“Of concern is that there are some artists claiming to have composed it because its impact has reached nations and it has become a song to reckon with.

“I composed it in 2010 and recorded the song on a video, using one of our members’ cellphone in 2014, during rehearsals.

“We failed to record the song because we had no money since all of our members are not gainfully employed.

“Some took advantage of that and got wind of the song and claimed to be the owners and I regret the loss considering the impact it has made on the market.

“Covid-19 contributed much to the delay apart from not having a sponsor to make us grow,” said Russel.

Other group members include Esther Bhokisi on vocals and hosho, Shadreck Nehoreka on congas and Tawanda Gwara and Joseph Jayaguru.

The members are seen on a video circulating on social media.