Zhakata, Mhere for Mzansi gig

Thobekisiwe Gumede
WHILE some critics have long written the Mugove hit maker as a spent force, it seems the Zora maestro is slowly rediscovering his winning formula which made him a sought-after performer in the music industry in the 90s.
Also known as Karikoga, Leonard Zhakata, and gospel music star Mathias Mhere are set to perform in Cape Town in what promises to be a thrilling show. The two are billed to perform in Strand and Parow at the beginning of November.

Zhakata has promised fans in Cape Town fireworks following his recent successful tour when he shared the stage with several South African musicians who included Freddy Gwala and Zozo at Idani Park in Limpopo Province.

With 20 albums to his name Zhakata is no novice in the music industry. His music has depth and touches on various aspects of life. He recently toured Germany where he did an album with Virginia Mukwesha, the daughter of mbira legend, Stella Chiweshe.

“During my tour in Germany on a cultural fusion programme I did an album with Virginia titled Zombi which is a collaboration of Zora and Mbira music. The album was done specifically for the Germany market and we never intended to market it in the country because we did not want to look like we are confusing our fans,” he said.

He added that he was going to perform with Mhere in Cape Town and then with Nicholas “Senior Lecturer” Zacharia in Johannesburg.
Mhere’s manager Zebediah Manyonde said fans would be blessed by the two musicians’ performance.

“I believe fans are going to be blessed. The two musicians are going to give their all and I believe God will minister through Zhakata especially now that he is a pastor,” said Manyonde.

“Zhakata has never ceased being an excellent performer. When he went to South Africa early this year people actually liked his performance and receiving such great support away from home shows that he is still in the game.”

Mhere, arguably the current jewel in the crown of gospel music will be touring Cape Town for the fourth time.
Mhere is currently riding high with tracks off his latest album like Number Busy, Sahwira and Ziya Rangu.

He rose to prominence with his previous album Anoita Minana, which made him a household name with hits such as Favour, Chipositori and Areka.