Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
October is a sacred month for Tongai “Dhewa” Moyo’s family, fans and mentees.
It carries a profound meaning, as it marks the anniversary of the day the sungura giant breathed his last.
Dhewa passed away on October 15, 2011, at the age of 43.
This year, he would have turned 57.
Despite Dhewa’s absence, his successes, triumphs and resilience are celebrated posthumously.
One of his mentees, Solo Moyo, pays tribute to the late Dhewa with his ninth album titled “Kuburutsa Zvipo,” which can be loosely translated to releasing God’s unmatched blessings.
This album serves as a rare gift to Dhewa’s fans, as well as to those of Utakataka Express and Kutinya Express, his own group.
Solo believes it would be unthinkable to forget the significant contributions Dhewa made to the growth of the industry.
For Solo, both Dhewa and Dembo paved the way for his own journey.
Solo had the opportunity to interact more with Dhewa during his formative years; consequently, he feels that both Utakataka and Kutinya Express fans are in safe hands.
“I consider myself blessed to have been mentored by one of the great minds of the game — the late Tongai “Dhewa” Moyo,” he emphasised.
“Having a role model of his calibre meant I had to raise my standards and elevate my game, just as he did.” I still uphold those standards because they have made me the star I am today. I continue to practise some of the things he taught me, and it is paying off, to say the least.”
He also hailed Dhewa as a renowned trendsetter, providing sungura fans with diverse entertainment options.
“He catered to those who needed class in sungura, and that is something I cherish. By releasing this album in October, the same month he passed away, we aim to honour our mentor.
“We have a large constituency to cater to at the moment, and we can’t afford to keep starving them of live shows and new music they were accustomed to.”
The Kutinya Express leader shared with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub that Dhewa instilled in them the values of hard work and focus.
“He was a dedicated musician who prioritised his craft and paved the way for us to be where we are today. I am incredibly grateful for the rare insights I gained from him.
“He would invite me to perform at his shows whenever he visited Kadoma. On several occasions when we were scheduled to perform on the same day in Kadoma, I would cancel my shows as a way of honouring him for the outstanding contributions he made for us,” he recalled.
He also expressed his willingness to forge alliances with Dhewa’s sons — Peter, Tongai Junior and Tanaka.
“I am on excellent terms with Tongai Moyo’s family, and I will always welcome his kids if they are willing to work with me on future projects.
“Music should win in the end, so it can happen if they’re open to it.” We are living in a world where collaborations have worked, and we can still do that as local artistes.”
Unpacking his ninth album, which symbolises completion and fulfilment, Solo has excelled in this release.
It was launched on Radio Zimbabwe last weekend, and the response was overwhelming.
The album features five tracks of superior quality, namely “Kuzofadza Imi,” “Mbiri Isina Mari,” “Rudo Munyengeri,” “Takatamba Kare” and “Zvaunongombeya.”
He also spoke highly of producer Antony Gasani, who dedicated his time to producing this album.
“On this album, I dedicated three full weeks to recording, and I am glad because it came out well, as the producers at Gart Studio were on point.
“As a perfectionist who is always hands-on when people are producing my work, I had to be there to ensure that I give my fans something of superior quality.
“Being part of the production process is what we have been yearning for, and we will always cherish the good work we did together.
“Musically, I am glad because everything went according to plan, and now we are here celebrating this milestone together,” he stressed.
Solo, who also works as a miner in Kadoma, revealed that he is living his dream as both a musician and entrepreneur.
“I am someone who is never shy to work hard, and I am glad that I am doing what I love the most, especially as a musician.
“I have come a long way from being a mining manager to running my own claim, but the call of music was irresistible, to say the least. I am here living my dream, and I will continue giving it my all because it’s a special calling.”
Backed by a star-studded group, Solo added that his ascent to acclaim is a result of teamwork.
“I work with tried-and-tested instrumentalists, including Guyson Sixpence, Livison Bhibho, Brighton Joseph, Emmanuel Joseph and Mr Takesure, who have been loyal to this outfit,” he explained. As he celebrates the launch of “Kuburutsa Zvipo,” he will do so with Dhewa in mind.
Dhewa and Dembo shaped him, and they still hold a special place in Solo’s profile.
