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Tafadzwa Zimoyo
Senior Arts Reporter
Musician Tendai Mafireyi is on a mission to revive the Christian hip-hop genre using his life story which he believes is an one of triumph and perseverance to attain his goals against all odds.
Mafireyi, who used to do poetry and rap in high school, said in an interview with The Herald Arts that music has the power to influence, hence he chose the hip-hop genre which is much popular with his peers.
“I used to do poetry and rap in high school, but did my first recording when I was 18,” he said. “My first single ‘Long way to go’ was inspired by my Zimbabwean patriotism while ‘Praise the Lord’ just expressed my love for Jesus. I love the music that I would do for free, it is my passion.
“I chose to be in the hip-hop genre focusing on the gospel side because it seems it is dying and I want to revive it. Most hip-hop artistes are focusing on social ills, love, crime and money, hence I can preach the word of God through the genre as it has influence among the youths.”
The 28-year-old said he draws inspirations from local and international gospel artistes, though he writes what he sees in society.
“I take inspiration from American rapper Saint Jhn, Lecrae and Shingisai Suluma not only for their vocal capabilities, but also for their courage to make genre-bending music that doesn’t conform to the norm,” he said.
“I am making songs that deliver a diverse and unique sound throughout the project, with inspiration from the music I grew up listening to, all the way to the music we are bumping today.”
Speaking on the lyrical content, Mafireyi, who is based in the United States, said it was a mixed bag from praise and worship, emotions to livelihood.
Mafireyi, who is a doctor of chemistry and just completed his studies, said he wants to venture into music full time.
“I have been studying and keeping my distance so as to avoid Covid-19. I am happy that I was fortunate enough to get vaccinated and I encourage others who have the chance to do the same.
“I now want to do full time music to put my face on the mark.
“So far the singles are already out and are available on all streaming platforms. ‘Praise the Lord’ has a video on YouTube which has nearly 100 000 views.”
Online Reporter