Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
THE family and fans of James Chimombe yesterday marked the 35th anniversary of the day the legendary musician died.
Chimombe was 39 when he died on October 23, 1990.
He would have turned 74 today but his legacy continues to be celebrated posthumously.
A father of seven, Chimombe was renowned for popular hits such as “Jemedza,” “Munakandafa,” “Kudakwashe,” and “Muchiti Mugere,” among others.
His son, Davitah Chimombe, a musician based in South Africa, praised his late father.
“My late father was not only a talented musician but also a devoted father who preached through his music.
“He took great pride in his family and he cared for all of his seven children until his death.
“As a family, we will always miss him because he left a legacy to be cherished for years.”
Davitah added:
“We are planning a tribute show for him at the end of this month, and I am quite certain that my sister in Harare, Tendai, will organise something as well.
“I have just released an album dedicated to him and a tribute show is also in the pipeline here in South Africa.
“He was adored by many, and we can’t let this milestone go unnoticed.”
Davitah acknowledged the challenge of surpassing his father’s legacy.
“It’s every child’s dream to fill the big shoes of their fathers but it won’t be easy.
“As children of music legends, fans are quick to compare us to our fathers, which can be unfair.
“However, we strive to emulate our legendary fathers and simply ask people to accept us as we are and refrain from comparisons.”
Davitah, who has forged a partnership with his sister Tendai, said he was proud to revive their father’s music.
“My sister Tendai has more experience in the industry than I do and I will always cherish her for her determination.
“She has nothing to prove, having navigated the music scene for several years.
“To say she has mastered the craft would be an understatement, given her versatility and creative edge, which have made her a household name in Zimbabwe.
“She is also a respected music teacher and mentor, just like our father, who nurtured many aspiring artists.”
Similar sentiments were echoed by veteran saxophonist Philip Svosve, who worked closely with Chimombe in the 1980s.
“I was not only a good friend to Jimmy but also his uncle, which has strengthened our bond beyond that of mere band members.
“I will always remember him for the good memories we shared and the journey we travelled together.
“I was actually the one who recruited him into my band at one point, although he eventually moved on.
“It is now my responsibility to assist his son and any of his children in reviving the Ocean City Band,” Svosve said.
He added:
“I will certainly pass on the same skills to his son. Culturally, he is our son, and we must nurture him to fulfil his father’s wishes. We want to see his legacy continue.”
Like many artists of his generation, Chimombe moved from one band to another in search of fortune.
He had stints with the Pop Settlers Acid Band, The Blacks Unlimited, the Ocean City Band, Huchi Band, and the OK Success.
Chimombe died at the peak of his career, and his music remains as captivating as ever.
