‘Tsotso’ hitmaker tackles trauma of child abuse

Society Reporter

‘‘TSOTSO’’ hitmaker Ray Bopoto has dropped his ninth studio album, “Chioma (Good God)”, which tackles various social issues, among them child abuse.

Over the years, the gospel singer has become one of the best-performing artistes on various weekly radio chart shows.

His last offering, “Svoto”, particularly the title track, made waves in the past year.

Prior to its release, Bopoto had dominated music charts with the song “Tsotso”, off the album “Gore Rino”. The song secured the number two spot in Radio Zimbabwe’s end-of-year Top 50 competition, narrowly losing out to the best track. Most of the South Africa-based singer’s fans like his ability to capture social ills in his songs.

His message is quite different from the one in the usual gospel compositions.

“This is my ninth studio album. We have shifted a gear up with regard to composition and instrument arrangement. This is a polished project that our fans will love. I am sure it will also win us new fans,” said Bopoto.

“Chioma (Good God)” comprises four tracks: “Kunaka Ndafa”, “Mwana”, “Pamabvi” and “Mashoko”.

Two videos accompany the audio project that hit the market on Friday.

“What to look out for is a song titled ‘Mwana’, in which I addressed issues to do with child abuse, particularly rape by relatives or family members,” added Bopoto.

“These cases are not being dealt with properly. In most instances, such cases are being swept under the carpet by relatives, as they protect each other for one reason or another. Often, they opt for kuripa (compensation) through traditional channels, which, however, does not address the pain, trauma and emotional strain that the abused child will endure.” The album was recorded at The Magi Records in South Africa.

“We have not included any collaborations so far but will certainly do so in our forthcoming project. ‘Gore Rino’ has been my most successful thus far, but I wish to surpass that level.

“Apart from ‘Mwana’, I feel the track ‘Kunaka Ndafa’ will also cause waves on the market,” added Bopoto.