Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts, Entertainment Hub
SOMANDLA “Mafia” Ndebele will be celebrating 38 years of musical recording with the upcoming launch of his 26th album titled, “Atove Mazambuko.”
The consistent sungura musician is set to break records tomorrow (Thursday) as he commemorates his impressive career at the album launch at Steakhouse in Ardbennie, Harare.
Fellow musicians of his generation including Alick Macheso, Nicholas Zakaria, Paradzai Mesi, Hosiah Chipanga and Leonard Zhakata, will grace the event.
Peter Moyo has been added to the impressive line-up, representing the current crop of sungura game-changers.
Soma, as the singer is fondly known, will be unleashing his latest album, which features seven high-quality tracks, namely “Chembedzanayi,” “Dadirai,” “Gutsikana Iwewe,” “Kandiro Enda,” “Ndinotowanawo Vanondidawo,” “Shingirirayi,” and “Zvamasara Marovha.”
In an interview, the founder of the Denda Brothers, who has remained relevant in the industry, emphasised that he is in the right frame of mind to unveil new material.
“I have been working on this album for some time, and I believe this is the right moment to share it with the masses.
“The 25th album, titled “Kuruma Nekufuridzira,” was released in 2022; however, for this one, I decided to take my time to ensure that I provide my loyal fans value for their money. I am confident that the album will certainly stand out and that many people will embrace it,” he said.
Soma said he is set to celebrate new milestones as a consistent recording artiste who started music while at high school in Dzivaresekwa, Harare.
“By the way, I will be celebrating 38 years of musical recording in the industry at the launch of this 26th album.
“It’s a milestone for me because recording music has always been a part of my life.
“In our industry, one is only remembered by their last album or new material on the market, even though I already have other hits in our catalogue.”
Mafia, who has been holding a series of shows alongside the Orchestra Mberikwazvo camp, praised Alick Macheso’s team for their support.
“On that note, I am grateful to Macheso’s camp for helping me organise this album launch featuring legends.
“If you have noticed, I have been regularly performing with Macheso for the past three years as a duo.
“Sungura lovers have welcomed our collaboration, as we complement each other through our work,” he said.
“I get along with everyone in the line-up, from Macheso and Zhakata to Paradzai Mesi, Hosiah Chipanga and Peter Moyo, whom I consider a son. I used to spend time with his father, Tongai Moyo, when he was still alive, and I have extended the same love to his son.”
As a father figure in showbiz, Soma highlighted that he is no longer chasing fame but is focused on fortune generation and preserving his legacy.
“We have moved past the stage of seeking fame. Now, we want to transform that fame into fortune and ensure that we leave something for our children when we are gone.
“A lot of changes have occurred in this industry, and our quest now is to monetise our work and make it profitable.”
He also praised the loyal fans who have supported him throughout his recording career.
Besides “Atove Mazambuko,” Soma boasts a rich catalogue of albums.
Some of his most successful productions include “Zvamauya Zvanaka,” “Chida Moyo,” “Natsa Kwawabva,” “Tsanangudzo,” “Makobvu Nematete,” “Chinokanganwa Idemo,” and “Marwadzo.”
He has collaborated with many local artistes, including Jah Prayzah and Suluman Chimbetu. One of his popular duets is “Wekurera,” which he recorded with the late Tongai Moyo.
With nearly over four decades of recording, Soma has become a cornerstone of the sungura genre, captivating audiences with his vibrant melodies and heartfelt lyrics.
His passion for music and dedication to his craft have not only solidified his place in the industry but also inspired a new generation of artistes.
