Online Reporter
Mkhululi Ncube, Zimpapers Entertainment Hub
THE Zimbabwean music industry has received a significant boost with the relocation of acclaimed sound engineer and producer Tumelo “TK” Dube from South Africa to Bulawayo.
With several successful albums to his name, TK has produced for prominent figures in the rhumba genre, including Mandlekosi “Godolode” Mpofu, Clement Magwaza and Ndabitshekile. He is also the founder of the Dubia Masters band.
Earlier this year, he moved his fully equipped recording studio to Kelvin, Bulawayo — a major win for local artistes, who have long grappled with the cost and logistics of travelling to South Africa for high-quality recording and mastering.
“I’ve been operating in South Africa for years, but the challenges there and the demand from local artistes who couldn’t afford to travel, pushed me to bring the studio home,” said TK.
His impact is already being felt. Renowned rhumba musician Mxolisi “Mr Bones” Ndlovu, who also returned home this year from South Africa, is recording his upcoming album at the new studio.
Last year, TK Studios was behind the runaway rhumba hit Bangihlangabeze nge Case (Faka Two Phezu kwebhodlela) by Mr Bones — a track that dominated charts and dance floors. But TK is not limiting himself to rhumba. Trained by the late music maestro Joe Maseko, he plans to cater to multiple genres, including choral, gospel and contemporary sounds, ensuring artistes across Zimbabwe have access to world-class production.
“For our music to go far, it must start with quality production. That’s what I’m offering — sound that meets global standards,” he said.
Importantly, TK has left some equipment in South Africa for initial recordings, while all mixing and mastering will now be done in Bulawayo — giving the region’s artistes the best of both worlds.
For years, rhumba artistes have voiced concerns about the lack of professional mastering facilities in Zimbabwe, often having to travel to Harare or across the border. This relocation marks a turning point.
Veteran musician Ndux Junior, welcomed the move:
“This is a great development. We used to spend a lot on travel and accommodation in South Africa. Now, that money will go into the music itself.”
Mr Bones echoed the sentiment, calling TK “a master of the game”:
“This came at the perfect time for me. No more stress of travelling across the border — I can now focus on making the best album possible.”
With TK Studios now fully operational in Bulawayo, the city is poised to become a hub for high-quality music production in Southern Africa — reducing costs for artistes while boosting creativity and professionalism in the industry. — @themkhust
