Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
If responsibility were an examination, Suluman Chimbetu would easily get a distinction.
When it comes to upholding family legacy, Sulu, as the Orchestra Dendera Kings frontman is affectionately known, has excelled, consistently going out of his way to protect and support his family.
After being drafted into Orchestra Dendera Kings in 2005, following the death of his father, Simon “Chopper” Chimbetu, and eventually assuming the reins, Sulu was destined to lead.
Not only is he leading a star-studded outfit comprising some musicians who came from the same generation as his late father, but he has also kept the Dendera flame burning while nurturing the next generation of the Chimbetu family.
His commitment, however, extends beyond music.
Sulu has shown immense love and support for his siblings, cousins, and other members of the extended family, with his actions speaking louder than words.
When it comes to projecting the family name, he continues to hold his uncle Allan Chimbetu in high regard.
He roped in his cousin Douglas Chimbetu after the latter fell on hard times.
Douglas is the son of Sulu’s uncle Allan, who was also leading his own band before it disbanded due to financial constraints.
Sulu has made Douglas a vital cog in the Orchestra Dendera Kings set-up, where he has proved that he is more than just a backing vocalist and dancer.
When his other cousin, Tryson Chimbetu, was battling drug and substance abuse last year, Sulu stepped in and facilitated his rehabilitation.
He constantly checks on him and, at one point, advised him to change his environment to aid his recovery.
Sulu has also been mentoring his sister, Saiwe, who has proved her worth as a gospel musician.
There are other Chimbetus knocking on the doors of success and looking up to Sulu for guidance as they seek to establish themselves in the entertainment industry.
After all, Sulu has done his best to protect the family name and uphold the values established by his late father, who founded Orchestra Dendera Kings.
In his 21 years as a full-time member of the outfit, it may sound like a lifetime, but Sulu’s team firmly believes they have a leader who understands the weight of the family name.
In a recent interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, Sulu admitted that he genuinely values his family.
“I do value family and what our fathers have taught us,” said the crooner.
“Whether we are talking about the extended family or immediate family, I respect everyone carrying our name and that alone drives me to help where I can.
“I don’t know everything, and that is why I am willing to learn from others.
“In life, wisdom shared and learnt is critical for us, and we value it a lot.”
Sulu, who has been keeping his family’s legacy alive by championing the good deeds done by his father, added:
“It will be hard for me to be like my father in every aspect, but we are carrying on with the legacy he left behind.
“We also hold annual festivals in his name in some of the places that he popularised, like Chegutu, Highfield and other areas.
“We have plenty coming up in September in his honour, where I expect the Chimbetus to come and show the world what we are made of.
“There is also a lot of charity work we are doing, but sometimes we don’t go public with it because it has become our staple, if not lifestyle, to help needy members of the community.”
In recent years, Sulu has been donating stationery to Simon Chimbetu Primary and Secondary schools in Chegutu.
Named after his father, Sulu feels obliged to assist learners in remote areas who need his support.
Last year, Sulu brought cheers to learners at Simon Chimbetu Primary and Secondary schools in Selous, about 27 kilometres from Chegutu, where he donated soccer and netball kits.
He also provided five computers to the primary school, along with books and pens to help the learners.
This was a huge milestone for the learners, who look up to him as a role model in the community.
Chegutu holds a special place in the Chimbetu family history, as it was where the family settled after arriving from Tanzania many years ago.
Sulu, like his late father Chopper, has a soft spot for Chegutu, where he has an interest in farming.
He has also been holding a series of sold-out gigs in the area, reminding fans that Chopper’s legacy remains in safe hands under his leadership.
Beyond music, his work demonstrates how artistes can use their influence to support their families and communities. For Sulu, keeping the Chimbetu name alive is not only about performing his father’s songs, but also about preserving the values of unity, generosity, and responsibility that defined the family.
As August, Heroes Month, draws to a close, Sulu can wrap it up in style by continuing to walk majestically in the footsteps of his father and ensuring that the Chimbetu legacy remains relevant to future generations.
