Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
PROLIFIC musician Hosiah Chipanga says the sungura music genre will never be the same again following the demise of the iconic Nicholas “Madzibaba” Zakaria.
Madzibaba, who battled diabetes and hypertension for many years, passed away last Thursday aged 69.
His final resting place is a family shrine in Chiweshe, Mashonaland Central Province, where he was buried in accordance with Moslem traditions on Sunday.
Madzibaba, the founder of Khiama Boys, will best be remembered for the invaluable mentorship he provided to many artistes.
However, it was disheartening that some notable figures in the music industry were absent from his burial.
In a heartfelt interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub on the sidelines of the burial, Chipanga commended those who attended the funeral for their loyalty and respect for Madzibaba’s contributions to the arts.
“I would like to thank all the people who came here,” Chipanga stated.
“However, as a nation, we could have shown greater appreciation for his immense contributions to the arts fraternity.”
Coming from the same generation as Madzibaba, Chipanga firmly believes that the sungura genre has lost a vital torchbearer.
He emphasised, “It will never be the same without him. We need not be reminded of what he has accomplished over the years — as a musician, mentor and father figure. I will always treasure the wonderful memories we shared.”
Chipanga urged the new generation of musicians to draw inspiration from Madzibaba, recognising him as an iconic star in the industry.
“His achievements are monumental; to many of us, he will always remain a hero in showbiz. It is essential for us to emulate and sustain the legacy he built over the years,” Chipanga advised.
“To the youngsters and everyone who looked up to him, there is much to learn from his example. He was a creative genius, a father figure, and a man of the people who played a pivotal role in shaping many careers.”
Having spent years in the music scene, Chipanga noted Madzibaba’s exceptional leadership skills, recalling him as a disciplinarian who kept even the most challenging personalities in line. “Madzibaba managed some musicians who had peculiar characteristics and required firm guidance,” Chipanga reflected.
“I won’t mention any names, but judging by his success and the quality of his protégés, it’s clear he faced a difficult but vital challenge, one that is hard to maintain.”
Chipanga expressed his enduring gratitude for Madzibaba’s significant contributions to the industry. “For those of us who worked alongside him over the years, Madzibaba was a hero in his own right. We will forever cherish the positive impact he had on the growth of our industry.”
As he looks to the future, Chipanga has called for unity within Madzibaba’s family and the band, urging them to continue his legacy.
“My prayer is for the family to remain cohesive in their endeavours, ensuring they maintain the legacy Madzibaba built over the years,” he said. “It would be disheartening to hear of divisions within the family — we do not want to witness that in the future.”
Regarding the Khiama Boys band, Chipanga encouraged them to come together and strategise for their musical future.
“I know it will be challenging for them to uphold the standards Madzibaba set, but I hope to see them succeed and continue to evolve in his absence.”
Chipanga reassured the remaining Khiama Boys members that he is willing to provide guidance if sought.
“I am not one to withhold advice from anyone who seeks my expertise. I am prepared to assist them when ever, I can,” he said.
“I believe there will be continuity in their efforts because they have talented people capable of carrying on the legacy. Of course, the standards may not be the same without the visionary at the helm, but I encourage them to work hard and build upon what their boss left behind.”
Madzibaba’s band members were also introduced to mourners in Chiweshe last Friday by Star FM presenter Ndumiso “Skywalker” Dube, who served as the event’s master of ceremonies.
Skywalker, a beloved figure who hosts a show dedicated to sungura artistes, was praised for his warmth and professionalism during the proceedings.
He echoed Chipanga’s sentiments, urging the Khiama Boys band members to stay united and dedicated to preserving Madzibaba’s legacy.
“I wish them all the best as they embark on a new chapter without Madzibaba. While he was not destined to be with us forever, I believe they can continue the excellent work he initiated,” he stressed.
