Q. Montana breaks new ground

and making history.

We have seen talent from our own musicians making a mark on the international platform proving that contrary to the belief of many, our own artistes have what it takes to make an impact internationally. Concern though has been on whether the young artistes coming up will be able to match their forerunners and make the same impact.
The inception of urban grooves has not made things easier as youngsters are bypassing the basics of music and producing a greater percentage of bubblegum music as well as fly-by-night artistes. While that maybe the case other young stars are going yonder to discover and develop music that is mature timeless, intercontinental cutting across race, culture and social backgrounds.

Zimbabwe’s youngest afro-jazz maestro, Q. Montana, last week released an amazingly dynamic and very engaging album titled “Strings Attached”. Unknown to many this young musician has already made a significant contribution to the local music industry and in the process sending shock waves in other countries.
Born Brighton Kufa on November 1, 1983, he began playing the bass at the tender age of seven. It was during this time that he also learnt to play the acoustic guitar, piano, keyboard and percussion.

A look at the credits on the sleeve of his latest offering “Stings Attached”, demonstrates that he is a multi-talented artiste performing lead vocals, playing the acoustic guitar, piano, keyboards and bass. By the time he turned professional at the age of 19 his presence in the music industry had already been felt and celebrated by many playing alongside big names like Tanga wekwa Sando, Africa Revenge, Andy Brown, Dudu Manhenga, just to mention a few.

In 2005 he released his debut album “Neo Vector”, which did very well on the local charts. This was followed by “Sweet Pain” in 2007, “Untamed” in 2009 and his latest hit “Attached”.
Going through the projects one cannot ignore the remarkable progress that Q. Montana has made.

Featuring on his latest offering is one of the most respected Brazilian jazz maestros, Bruno Migliari.
Track 6 demonstrates the power and versatility of these two stars as they co compose arrange and produce the song titled “Huya”. My favourite track though is “Karinga” and I can see it making waves that will go on and on.

The sharing of the microphone by an artiste goes a long way in demonstrating maturity. While you may have written the music and the project is yours bringing other super voices to collaborate can break the monotony of your own vocals and offer other levels of expression that enhance and add value to your music.
Dadou Mansanga from DRC and Willis Wataffi complement Q. Montana as they fuse their amazing styles and take the first track on the album to exciting and amazing melodic levels.

Zimbabwe’s hip-hop legend, David Chifunyise, and Kapella T Silva, a rising star who has made resounding success throughout South America particularly Brazil, are also featured on this bomb of an album which was released last week and is set to be launched on October 1.
The whole project is a hub of sweet melodies, authentic African rhythms and a show case of rare talent from an irrefutable music genius. Undoubtedly one of the best musical projects to come out of Zimbabwe, this album is poised for greatness.

Q. Montana’s music is mature, timeless, intercontinental cutting across race, culture and social backgrounds. He has performed at many prestigious events and festivals in Zimbabwe and outside the country.

Backed by a vibrant and energetic six-piece band, Q. Montana has toured many countries, of note Zambia, where he has made such a huge impact. A few years back he represented Zimbabwe on a song for Sadc which featured a top artiste from Zambia, Chris Aka, and Mau Mwale. He was also invited to feature as a guest together with Dr Kenneth Kaunda at a Christmas special for the country of Zambia and the event was broadcast live on Zambian national TV ZNBC.

Such impact from a musician his age definitely deserves to be commended. He has not only proved that he has what it takes to make it locally or regionally but internationally. All what he needs is the support from the nation especially the business world. It is inevitable that this young afro-jazz maestro shall and will bring pride to the nation as he continues on this path.