Tafara Chibanda
A GROUP of 15 legendary musicians from the Dendera and Sungura musical genres have joined forces to stage a major comeback on the domestic music industry.
The group, led by renowned Marabi artist Kireni Zulu, includes iconic figures such as Shepherd Chinyami of Vhuka Boys, Solo Makore of Fogo Fire Band, Weeds Wilson Mbale of Seasons Band, Foster Mukweu of MK Upper Five and Vary Khumbulani of Gakamoto Jumbo Stars.
In an interview with this publication, the veterans said they intended to go on a nationwide tour to lift each other and revive their music.
“We do not have sponsors, but we have come together as a united group of artists to revive our careers and reclaim our rightful place in the industry,” said Zulu.
“Once we release our show dates, we will be performing as a combined force.”
He said they were working on an album which they were yet to release as a combined group.
The veterans lamented the challenges they faced in the past, such as the lack of studios and the tough process of getting songs produced and released.
However, they expressed optimism about the current state of the industry, citing the advantages of new technologies that have made music production and distribution easier.
“Sometimes you would even record the songs but they would be rejected by the producer, in my case my successful songs were once rejected but I managed to record them and they were accepted by the listeners,” he said.
Chinyani said:
“I was at home doing something else but now I have the chance to do what I love and enjoy the most.”
The artists also used the platform to send a message to upcoming and established musicians to stay away from drugs.
The veterans are optimistic that this grand project will not only revive their individual careers, but also breathe new life into the Dendera and Sungura genres, which have been integral to Zimbabwe’s rich musical heritage.




