Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Phenomenal lyricists Leonard Zhakata and the late Thomas Makion were in a league of their own.
Their remarkable success has left an indelible mark, which put Manicaland province on the international map through their beautiful music. Twenty-four years after Makion’s death, many still feel the absence of this dynamic duo, who penned chart-toppers like “Tungidza Gwenya” and “Shungu Dzemoyo” before their split at the peak of their careers.
At the height of their careers with the Maungwe Brothers, Zhakata composed the hit song “Mugove,” while Makion delivered the club banger “Makorokoto,” solidifying their impact on the music scene.
Following the death of Makion, there were genuine concerns that their unique touch might never be replicated, especially in the absence of heirs.
However, Freddy “Biggaz” Zhakata, a relative to both Makion and Zhakata, believes he has what it takes to carry on the family legacy. With Zhakata still alive, Biggaz has a torchbearer from whom to learn.
Biggaz expressed confidence that the family’s musical legacy continues to inspire generations.
His remarks come at a time when he is preparing to release his third album, coinciding with the 24th anniversary of his uncle Makion’s passing.
Makion, who died in August 2001, was also Biggaz’s uncle, making Zhakata his other uncle. In an interview with The Herald Arts, Biggaz shared his optimism about keeping the family legacy alive:
“Coming from a rich musical background has its fair share of challenges, but I am not the one to shy away. I am currently in the studio working on my third album titled “Kasumbu/Full Package,” which is set to launch in conjunction with the 24th anniversary of my uncle Thomas Makion.
“I am nearing the end of the production process, and I believe this album will inspire both old and new fans of Makion and Zhakata.”
The 43-year-old, who has released two albums — “Bhora Mberi” in 2015 and “Iniwo Zvangu” in 2017 along with a series of singles — has vowed to make a lasting impression on the local music landscape. “I don’t want to promise too much, but I assure Team Maungwe (Biggaz’s band name) that we are not here to add numbers.
“We have given fans several singles like “Dzingori Hope,” “Vanodongorera,” and “Zvese Imomo,” which are still doing well. The single “Zvese Imomo” which has an accompanying video, topped the charts at our Manicaland radio station, Diamond FM, and many people have been wondering who is behind the track, prompting me to step in,” he stressed. To ensure that Makion’s beautiful voice is not interred with his remains, he has roped in Thomas Makion Junior for possible collaborations. “I cannot afford to ignore Junior (Makion’s son) because we are the rightful people to keep this legacy going. We might not reach their level, but I can assure you that we have what it takes to do better and be counted among the stars.
It has always been my wish to ensure that we put our family name on the world map for good reasons. I am beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel because we are super talented and united as the children of the pioneers of Maungwe music, started by our elders.”
Biggaz, whose originality has been under scrutiny over the years, noted that it was hard to please people.
“I appreciate constructive criticism because it allows us to grow and be counted among the top stars. Of course, my music will always carry some elements of Makion and Zhakata’s feel, but on this album that we are recording at Chrome Studios in Mabvuku, I have tried my best to be distinct. I have created a new sound that many people will certainly identify me with.
“I love music because it’s therapy on its own, helping people recover from stress-related challenges. “In my case, I am also creating music to help those in despair and the downtrodden by penning powerful compositions that will be cherished for years to come,” he said. Biggaz lamented the lack of sponsorship as one of his major challenges.
“In Zimbabwe, it’s very difficult to break through or win the hearts of top music promoters without connections.
“Most promoters tend to favour those who have already made a breakthrough or established names in showbiz. It is no longer about arts promotion but business, as promoters are jostling for the same artistes who are already popular, leaving emerging musicians with potential at risk of being forgotten or remaining nonentities despite their talent,” he bemoaned.
Born in Rusape, Biggaz completed both his primary and secondary education in rural areas. He only moved to Harare after graduating from high school and began marketing. Now a city dealer, Biggaz has not forsaken his undying love for music. He is married and blessed with three kids — one girl and two boys. With age still on his side, he believes he has plenty to offer and aims to make his uncle Makion smile from his grave.
He considers himself lucky that Zhakata is still alive to guide him.
