Online Reporter
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
RENOWNED multi-instrumentalist, academic and music producer Clive “Mono” Mukundu is not only a fountain of knowledge, but also a true treasure to the creative community.
Celebrating 38 years in the industry, this living legend has witnessed it all in showbiz.
In a promotional video, Mono reflected on his journey.
“Hello, my name is Clive “Mono” Mukundu. Every 22nd of January, I celebrate my entry into the music industry. To commemorate this milestone, I’m sharing a video that chronicles my journey from the days I started until today,” he emphasised.
“Sometime in 1988, I met a guy named Chiketa. His real name was Noah Muringai, and it was in December. We formed our first band, called Sarungano Chanters. I was the composer and the lead vocalist. At that time, I wasn’t able to play rhythm guitar, so Chiketa played lead guitar.
“However, after much practice and learning from Chiketa, by the end of the year, I became the lead guitarist, and Chiketa transitioned to playing rhythm guitar.”
He added, “On Saturday, the 8th of December, 1990, we moved to Dangumvura Hotel. Since the salary was very low, we couldn’t afford individual accommodations, so we rented a shack in Dangamvura, where all six of us lived.
“There was no furniture – just a plumber’s stove and some blankets. That was it. I had a single dreadlock when I was still in school. That single dreadlock was what was called a monologue,” he recounted.
He also reflected on his journey working with the late national hero and music icon, Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi. He discussed how he parted ways with the former Black Spirits leader and how he ended up building his own empire as a producer at Monolio Studios.
“I was fired in 2007. Soon after leaving the band, Chiwoniso approached me, and I joined her on her tours. We toured together in 2007 and 2008. Since I had bought studio equipment, while I was part of the band, I started my studio, Monolio Studio. Since then, I’ve focused on working in my studio.”
Determined to move forward, Mono has always set his sights on building his studio.
Unlike other musicians who don’t believe in the power of music, Mono has been urging his fellow artists to pursue education. He noted that musicians need education not only to enhance their profiles, but also to equip themselves with the knowledge needed in the creative community.
