adminTawanda Marwizi Arts Correspondent
The late Hohodza band member Simbarashe Mudzingwa has inspired a number of people to play musical instruments. Mudzingwa died in June this year and was buried at his rural home in Mutoko but his influence in aspiring musicians lives on.
UK-based musician Pastor Tongai Kapinga is one of those who have taken inspiration from the late Mudzingwa and has started recording his own music.
Kapinga, through his manager and producer Enock Kamhiriri, said Mudzingwa taught him how to play different musical instruments thereby motivating him to compose his own songs.
Last week Kapinga released a gospel track titled “Muchauya Rinhi” that is already available on video sharing-platform YouTube.
“Mudzingwa is one of the guys that taught me how to play instruments and as I speak I can play mbira, bass guitar, saxophone and other instruments,” he said.
According to Kapinga, the single was released ahead of his forthcoming album.
“We are working on an album that will be released early next year. We are hoping to launch it from here and in Zimbabwe,” he said.
Kapinga indicated his desire to work with several gospel musicians from back home.
“Gospel music in Zimbabwe is growing judging by its demand in several countries. My hope is to work with several artistes in the country so that we give praise to the Lord,” he said.
Kamhiriri, who has produced several musicians abroad, said Kapinga was another artiste with great potential to set a new standard in Zimbabwean gospel music.
“We are working tirelessly because we have a goal to achieve. We want to raise the country’s flag high and I am happy that Kapinga has shown great commitment in helping us achieve that goal,” he said.
He hopes that when they finish recording the album it will be well received.
“We have done several albums like ‘Muromo Moto’ done by Pineal Munatsi, ‘Ndisimbiseiwo’ done by Mai Tongogara, others by Linda Chikomo and Timothy Ngwenya.
“So we hope that this album will do well on the market,” he said.
Online Reporter