Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
THE late Paul Mpofu is widely regarded as a legend who made a significant impact on the jiti music scene.
Over 30 years ago, he introduced us to “Murambinda”, a track that remains as vibrant today as it was at the time of its release.
This timeless classic continues to resonate with partygoers and is a staple in clubs, thanks to Mpofu’s courage in bringing jiti music to the studio.
In fact, it would be unjust to discuss jiti music without highlighting the trailblazing exploits of the Bhundu Boys, led by the late Biggie Tembo, who made waves in the 80s by taking their unique jiti sound to a global audience.
Historically, jiti music has been a cherished form of expression for many rural communities in Mashonaland East, Mashonaland West and Mashonaland Central provinces.
Yet its fast-paced beats rarely made it to professional recording studios.
Although numerous composers have emerged to entertain rural audiences, many of these songs lack recognised authors due to poor or no documentation.
In the years following Biggie Tembo and Mpofu’s passing away, Baba Harare — real name Braveman Chizvino — emerged as a new voice in the genre, delivering hits like “Hat Dzemurara”; “Hakuna Mvana”, featuring Jiti Gure; and “Generator”.
But the singer has since transitioned to gospel music, changed his sound and stage name to King David.
His departure pained many, but it appears the genre could still be in safe hands as recent developments suggest.
From Murewa, we are now enjoying the infectious track “Manhanga Matete”, which, like many others, lacks an accredited composer, but has been popularised by Paddington Chiwashire.
Additionally, Sekuru “Weru” Gudo is making waves with his hit song “Weru”, which is poised to compete with “Manhanga Matete” as song of the year.
In Sekuru Gudo — real name Kelvin Fero — Zimbabwe has an incredible composer who entered the studio by chance.
Known for playing traditional drums, marimba and hosho (shakers/hand rattles) at most funerals in Glen View and surrounding suburbs, the 38-year-old was literally dragged to the studio by seasoned-yet-humble producer Charles Ayibeki.
Of course, Fero was not new to the studio, having gained exposure from the late Naison “Dr Nero” Chimbetu as a dancer and backing vocalist.
Dr Nero’s son, Tryson, would become his employer for years after his father passed away on March 6, 2006.
Fero is still a member of Tryson’s camp and is now enjoying rave reviews for his jiti song “Weru”, which has become a hit with partygoers.
The man behind the song was largely unknown, even though he had been in the game for years. He had to bring his music producer, Ayibeki, along for the interview.
“I am Sekuru Gudo Weru, the guy behind that popular song ‘Weru’, which has gained traction on the club scene, at parties and even in kombis,” he said.
“It is sad that the song was uploaded online on January 1 this year, but it is only gaining momentum now, alongside another jiti song ‘Manhanga Matete’, originally from jiti players in Murewa.
“I actually released a full album called ‘High Voltage’ with the backing of my group, The Special Class. It is a 10-track album that I released with the blessings of my boss, Tryson Chimbetu.
“On this album, I actually have two jiti songs — ‘Weru’ and ‘Zimuroyi’— but I have realised that my strength lies in this genre (jiti). There are more jiti songs coming.”
A proud father of one, Sekuru Gudo acknowledged his producer for believing in his talent.
“It is quite funny that I did not want to compose something of my own since I believed I was just born a backing vocalist and dancer after all these years,” he shared.
“Each time I hear my song being played next door or in a kombi, I am quick to check if my phone is not stolen. I am living in a new world, like a dreamer; it is hard to believe I am the one behind the song ‘Weru.’”
He fears becoming a one-hit wonder.
“I do not want to become a one-hit wonder like what most of the guys have done . . . The only thing I am proud of now is that I have made it into jiti with my own composition, unlike others who had to rely on popular folklore songs before they became superstars,” he said.
“To be honest, I now want to go far since the music community has embraced me. I cannot afford to lose this opportunity because I have been sitting on gold for years, unaware that I can make the whole country happy.”
Reflecting on his passion over the years, he continued: “I was actually one of the few people who introduced marimba at Budiriro 1 High School, where I completed my Form Four in 2004.
“It was not easy for me to achieve this rare feat, but people kept encouraging me to follow my dream. Now that I am filling the gap left by Kapfupi and Baba Harare, I can assure fans that more jiti songs are on the way.”
His producer, who was following this interview with keen interest, interjected.
“We really worked hard to convince him to take music seriously. He can sing beautifully and play the congas to perfection, and we had to ensure he was tipsy enough (Dutch courage) to come and record. It was not easy to convince him, but now we are celebrating together as he has embraced his new role.”
Ayibeki applauded Sekuru Gudo for embracing his “hidden” talent.
“As a producer with a lot of experience in the industry, we sometimes go through a lot and when we finally make a breakthrough or convince artistes to do more, it is a blessing for us. Creatives sometimes do not value their worth, but in this case, we are committed to helping him realise his potential.”
The singer’s employer and long-time friend, Tryson Chimbetu, acknowledged him for his new career path.
“I am proud of what he has accomplished. For us, it signifies growth when our band members can explore new avenues. We have been longing for this, where people can try new things and develop,” said Tryson.
The phenomenal crooner has vowed to continue supporting Sekuru Gudo in his new adventure.
“I am always with him and whenever he needs advice, I will give it directly. It is our project, and I am happy for him. Success is ours because we are one family,” added Tryson.
Sekuru Gudo has since teamed up with other musicians to form a clique called Mbira Dzegorekore.
The group is led by Ayibeki and specialises in traditional songs with a bias towards jiti.
Under the same banner, the “Weru” singer is set to release another jiti song titled “Irombe” on August 7.
Online Reporter