Muffia King: Dancehall star in the making

 Tobias Mandoreba in Hwange
Zimdancehall music has penetrated deep into the nation’s entertainment arena with artistes like Killer T, Winky D, Souljah Luv and Tocky Vibes proving to be a hit at entertainment joints and musical shows throughout the country.

But maturing like wine from Victoria Falls with a career spanning close to a decade is young Ray Pervaton Karipache, known as “Muffia King”.

The 24-year-old up-and-coming Zimdancehall gem said he was itching to blossom on the showbiz scene and put the resort town on the music map.

“I’ve a strong passion for music with eight albums to my name including Mhuri Yakakosha, Tozvivhura, Vic Falls Muffias, Good over Evil, Not a Competition, Live life of Love, Muffia Clan and Makomborero,” said the Muffia King.

He said he started his music career as a hip hop artiste before venturing into dancehall.

“I started singing in 2006 when I was in Form 1. I was more inclined to the Hip Hop and RnB genre. In 2008, I made friends from Kenya, DJ Simple Simon, Deejay Duan and MC Fullstop who introduced me to a Jamaica group named Chinese Assassin who initiated me into Jamaican Dancehall.

“They worked out beat instrumentals for me and another Kenyan singer with whom I collaborated with. From there, I got so fond of Jamaican dancehall music, besides my obsession with our local one.” he said.

The artiste said the release of his debut album in 2010 was his springboard.

“My first album was a fusion of Jamaican and Zimdancehall music. I went on a national tour to promote it and interestingly, people really loved my music.”

Karipache has had the opportunity to perform with renowned artistes including Oliver Mtukudzi, Jah Prayzah, Winky D, Freeman, Seh Calaz, Shinsoman, Lady Squanda, Killer T, Soul Jah Luv, Peter Moyo and Sulumani Chimbetu.

Taking advantage of the digital age, the artiste has built a digital footprint by being active on various social media platforms. His music is available on Sound Cloud as well as YouTube.

“I’m in the process of enlisting the help of a dynamic manager who’ll help me grow my brand,” he said.