Online Reporter
Latwell Nyangu-Zimpapers Arts, Entertainment Hub
VETERAN musician Steve “Dhongi” Makoni has shifted to digital music marketing as part of keeping his legacy and fighting piracy.
The “Sabhuku neDhongi” hitmaker’s iconic discography is now available on all digital streaming platforms, with the assistance of Zimbarock Music, a stable that is profiling musical legends.
All his music lovers across the globe are now able to access his timeless catalogue on Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes, YouTube, Deezer and more.
Makoni feels going digital is a stepping stone to preserve legacy against piracy.
In an interview, Makoni described piracy as a pandemic.
“It’s a global pandemic. We can only fight it by providing quality, original stuff, and timely making it available on as many streaming platforms as physically and economically possible. That’s the way to go.
“Pity is that even some local musicians who are not composers/authors/writers are involved in piracy through so-called cover bands, where they earn a living on other artistes intellectual property.” They avoid or evade paying their respective dues out of sheer greed. The net is closing in on them,” he said.
The Handiende singer, said his partnership with Zimbarock is aimed at keeping fans across the globe up to date.
“Our partnership with Zimbarock is a joint effort to provide my fans with the genuine article in a one-stop shop and keep the pirates at bay.
“Last year was part of my 30 years of non-stop song.
“We had the Handiende Concert Tour.
“The show goes on till we drop.” Piracy has literally destroyed the livelihoods of an untold number of musicians.
“The war is on and owners of copyright will prevail.”
A representative from Zimbarock Music, Moses “Mukanya” Manduwa, said their label is managing the re-releases.
“Makoni, is known for his rich storytelling, sharp wit, and genre-defining acoustic sound.”
“We are working with him to officially re-release his previously issued albums to all major digital streaming platforms.
“Music lovers across the globe can now access his timeless catalogue on Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes, YouTube, Deezer and more,” said Mukanya.
He said, for decades, Steve Makoni’s music has resonated across generations with hits such as Handiende, Zvachonyana, Chaenda nechimwe chii?, Handirare with Oliver Mtukudzi, Don’t Give Up, Johnnie (Balard For) and many more.
“These re-releases mark a major step in preserving and celebrating Zimbabwe’s musical heritage by making it accessible to a global digital audience.
“Steve Makoni is more than a musician — he’s a cultural treasure. Making his work available online ensures that the next generation, both in Zimbabwe and abroad, can connect with the stories, humour, and depth that define his legacy.
“The re-release includes digitally remastered versions, offering improved audio quality while preserving the raw, authentic feel that fans have cherished over the years.
“Fans can now stream or purchase the music worldwide, and curated play-lists will be rolling out in the coming weeks to spotlight Makoni’s most influential work.
“We will manage the previously released works and all the new material to be released in the near future,” said Mukanya. He said, as Zimbarock, their vision is to celebrate the contributions of music legends while bridging the old and the new in terms of sound. We are not stopping with Steve, we will be exploring more collaborations in the near future.”
