dyton mupawaenda
Youth Interactive Writer
The light keeps shining on Ghana-based rising Afro-fusion musician Crispen Sibanda as he gears up to release his debut EP this year.
Crispen, as he is affectionately known by a growing legion of fans, made his first steps towards dominating the global music market by dropping a smashing hit single “Happiness” earlier in the year.
A few weeks after its release, “Happiness” received over 50 000 streams, mostly from people in West Africa, breaking the geographic barrier most locals have tried to surpass since the inception of Afro-beats and Afro-fusion.
The genres, which are predominantly West African, have turned artistes from the region into global stars, with Burna Boy becoming one of a few Africans to win the prestigious Grammy Award.
The success of “Happiness” saw Crispen releasing another single, “Mafaro”, over the weekend.
The song is an infectious afro pop anthem that speaks on the struggles of African youth in their bid to succeed.
Coincidentally “Mafaro” was released at a time when the world was commemorating the Day of the African Child, a day set aside to remember young people massacred in Soweto as they demonstrated against the apartheid regime.
“Mafaro,” which means enjoyment in Shona, is a vibrant celebration of life, urging listeners to embrace every joyful moment.
The song opens with an enchanting blend of traditional Zimbabwean instrumentation and modern electronic beats, instantly transporting one to a lively party atmosphere.
The 24-year-old’s vocals glisten with irresistible energy, switching effortlessly between English and Shona as he delivers lyrics that resonate with a universal yearning for happiness.
The chorus explodes into a call to action, urging everyone to cast aside their worries and indulge in the pure pleasure of the moment.
Uplifting harmonies intertwine with Sibanda’s charismatic delivery, creating an irresistible groove that’s impossible to resist.
“Mafaro” uplifts the mood, and if the music gods are on his side, it will definitely propel Crispen into stardom.
Hesaid the song gives insight into the struggles of African youth.
“Mafaro is a tale of struggles, pain, jubilation and triumphant.”
Crispen Sibanda was born and raised in Bulawayo, before moving to Ghana in 2022 where he works with his father who runs an agronomy shop.
He was exposed to a diverse array of musical styles and genres from an early age, driving his passion to pursue a music career.
“Mafaro” and “Happiness” are part of his EP scheduled for release before the year-end.
Online Reporter