Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
TENDAI Dembo says he still feels the pain of losing his father, Leonard Dembo, even though 30 years have passed since the iconic musician’s death.
The 38-year-old noted that every debate about his father’s music on public platforms serves as a poignant reminder of his immense talent and influence.
As the leader of Barura Express, a band he inherited from his father, Tendai revealed his feelings ahead of the 30th anniversary of Dembo’s death, next month.
Dembo passed away on April 9, 1996, aged 37, leaving behind a young Tendai, who was just eight-years-old at the time.
Tendai and his siblings, Morgen and Fenistia, feel it is unfair for fans to compare their father’s legendary status with that of his children.
“Comparing my father to us should be considered taboo, to say the least,” said Tendai.
“There are people who have tried to make these comparisons, which is quite unfortunate, and a mockery of the legendary singer.
“People should simply respect what he has done because he paved the way for us.”
He added:
“As the 30th anniversary of our father’s passing approaches we, as a family, are definitely going to honour him in a big way – not only through his music but also by acknowledging the profound impact he had on our lives and careers.
“It has always been our desire to honour him with a grand gala or an event that brings together his old friends and new acquaintances under one roof.
“We can’t afford to let the day go unnoticed, which is something Tendai has always safeguarded.”
Commenting on the ongoing debate regarding the decline of sungura music in Zimbabwe and the industry’s failure to embrace technology, Tendai said:
“Sungura is now viewed as bubblegum music, as has been noted by US-based Chimurenga guru, Thomas Mapfumo.
“When you create sungura, as my late father did, you develop music that will be danced to by generations.
“I don’t subscribe to the idea that it is a dying genre, despite being snubbed at the 24th NAMAs, where there were no sungura performances and no nominees.
“In sungura, we are not after trending hits but creating music that can last for years to come.”
He also praised the fans who have supported them over the years.
“As a family, we are not under any pressure to fill our father’s big shoes because we can never be like him.
“Personally, I am grateful that there are people who have embraced me as I am, as well as fans who have treated my brother Morgan and sister Fenny with respect.
“My wish is to make my father proud, wherever he is, because he laid the foundation for us, and we are building on the milestones he achieved.”
