Online Reporter
Amos Mpofu
SUNGURA lovers are buzzing after Bulawayo-based guitarist, songwriter, and producer Elphas Mashamba, popularly known as Shamblo, released his latest single, Terera, on 5 February 2026.
The track has captured fans’ attention online for its crisp production, authentic sungura feel, and Shamblo’s signature guitar finesse. Known as a skilled and dependable guitarist, he has built a reputation as both a performer and trusted producer for emerging musicians.
Dzimbabwe Intertainment praised the release on Facebook: “Shamblo really knows the true sound of sungura… This young man is producing authentic sungura; even with the old masters no longer dominating, he is excelling. Let’s move away from rough, informal sungura and produce refined, listenable music. This sound is pure honey.”
The positive sentiment was echoed across social media, with fans from South Africa, Botswana, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Mozambique applauding Terera as “clean”, “technical” and “sweet”. Renowned Orchestra Mberikwazvo guitarist Noel Nyazanda added: “This is very good, young man. Good arrangement of sound. New sounds and the vocals.”
Driven by a dominant lead guitar, Terera blends melodic tradition with modern studio polish, creating a sungura sound that honours roots while appealing to contemporary tastes.
Born on 25 January 1995 in Jerera, Zaka, Shamblo lost his father, a respected guitarist, at age eight. Guided by the memory of his father’s instruments, he began playing guitar in Grade Five and honed his skills under the mentorship of Michael Chapanduka, learning the craft even at traditional gatherings.
After excelling academically, Shamblo joined Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) in 2013, where he grew as part of the ZPCS Band and the prestigious ZCC Brass Band under FL Changundega, arranger of Zimbabwe’s national anthem.
Before going solo, he collaborated with heavyweights including Baba Harare, Obert Chari, Hilton Chimedza, and Nutty O. Since launching his solo career in 2017, Shamblo has released 15 songs and continued to refine his signature sound.
