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Good Intentions, Unsure About the Approach

  Opinion by Fred Farai Nyakudanga Mahere and Wicknell Chivhayo's actions may stem from good intentions, but their approaches aren’t sustainable. By taking matters into their own hands to reach out to artists, they are inadvertently perpetuating a culture of informality and patronage. Fadzai Mahere has expressed a differing opinion on Leonard Zhakata's actions, while at the same time, the opposition leadership is jostling for opposition funding and receiving high-value motor vehicles in Parliament. The donation of motor vehicles by Sir Wicknell Chivhayo sounds like a good move, but how sustainable is this scheme, considering a new entry who is expecting to earn a living out of music? The real issue here is the state of our economy and the arts industry. Our iconic artists end up struggling to make ends meet, and it's unacceptable considering their hard work. The society owes musicians and it's a matter of policy that is needed to direct the society to pay musicians. Mor...
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Tanda Shiri: Mai Marimo’s Latest Musical Offering

  Own Correspondent  Mai Marimo, whose real name is Jane Stovring, is launching her latest album, Tanda Shiri, on 30 November at Tanza Center in Chitungwiza. The album is a culmination of her talent, which was discovered later in life. Mai Marimo's journey into music began after she retired from her accounting job. With the support of her husband, Jorn Stovring, she has released six albums, including Daka Regore, Shungu dzangu, Kumusha ne Christmas, Chikonzero, Makasa, and Simba mukaka. Tanda Shiri, her latest offering, is a rich and culturally significant album that showcases Mai Marimo's growth as an artist. The title track, Tanda Shiri, features thought-provoking lyrics that urge society to protect its valuables. Other songs on the album, such as Ndisungei, Dai ndakaziva Ndipeiwo Simba, Kuenda Humbangu, Muroora, promote good morals and motivation. Mai Marimo's music is a testament to her dedication and passion for her craft. Despite her age, she exudes energy and charism...

#KNOWYOURARTIST FRED FARAI

    Written by Jive Zimbabwe   Popularly known as Finto/FFF, Fred Farai Nyakudanga was born on the 7th of February in 1974. Finto started his career through a friend and mentor, the late Kenny Neshamba who was once a percussionist in the Black Spirits band.   He started composing songs whenever he met or traveled with Neshamba. He later met Pitshou Lumiere of Diamond Musica who believed in his song writing skills. Lumiere recorded two of the songs Finto had written on Diamond Musica’s 2013 album.   Thereafter, Finto started his own project although the lead vocalist was Julius Julius. Finto was content with composing the songs as well as doing poetry for the band.   Finto was then encouraged to sing by a friend and that is when he recorded his first song ‘Basa rapera’ in 2015. He hasn't looked back since then and his interest in singing and in doing poetry has grown over the years. He has two albums to date, ‘Ngativimbike’ which was re...

Dangers of Releasing Sub-Standard Music

      Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga FFF    Releasing sub-standard music is synonymous with populism. Some popular musicians release music that is considered poorly done or of low quality, relying on their existing popularity to drive sales and attention. This can be due to various factors, such as:   1. Complacency: Relying on their established fan base and reputation, rather than pushing themselves creatively. 2. Commercial pressure: Prioritizing meeting release deadlines, fulfilling contractual obligations, or maximizing profits over artistic merit. 3. Lack of accountability: Believing their popularity will shield them from criticism or negative feedback. 4. Experimental failure: Trying new sounds or styles that don’t resonate with listeners.   However, this approach can lead to:   1. Fan disappointment: Alienating loyal fans who expect better quality music. 2. Critical backlash: Receiving negative reviews and ...

Zim Artists: The Unprotected “Cattle” of the Economy

      Written by : Fred Farai Nyakudanga FFF   In the agricultural sector, farmers take great care to raise their cattle, providing fences, nutritious feed, and veterinary care to ensure healthy and valuable animals. The government supports these efforts through regulations, disease management, and infrastructure development. The goal is to produce high-quality beef and dairy products for local consumption and export.   In contrast, Zimbabwe’s artists are like stray cattle, lacking protection, regulation, and support. Despite their significant contribution to the economy, they operate in a Wild West-like environment, with no boundaries or guidelines. The industry’s lack of regulation leads to unfiltered content, often vulgar and harmful to society.   From infrastructure to copyright protection, artists are left to fend for themselves. There are a few notable exceptions, such as the Oliver Mtukudzi’s Pakare Paye project, which has achieved re...

Winky D: A Musical Icon and Messenger of Hope

    Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga "This is my tribute to Winky D, a singer who goes beyond his own achievements to inspire others, even in the face of adversity. His generosity of spirit and commitment to empowering others are a true reflection of his artistic passion and humanity." Winky D, a legendary musician, has been spreading messages of hope and unity through his songs, inspiring a nation to come together and find solace in the power of music. With unmatched artistic wisdom, he weaves relatable stories into his lyrics, resonating with people of all ages. From the young to the old, everyone has danced to his infectious beats and inspiring melodies.   Winky D's music transcends generations, bringing people together in a shared experience of joy and hope. His anthemic songs, like "Problems Disappear," offer a powerful appeal to overcome life's challenges. His artistry testifies to the transformative power of music, a universal language that ...

It’s Not The End Of The World

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga    This story is based on a true story and I have edited names so that someone is inspired out there. Resilience makes great changes in people's lives, don't commit Suicide     Fadzai sat on the edge of her bed, feeling empty and defeated. She had never felt so alone in her life. Thomas’s brief and dismissive response on the phone had left her reeling. She thought about her daughter, Rungano, who was now misbehaving at school, and how she was struggling to cope with the absence of her father.   Thomas had gone to South Africa for greener pastures leaving Fadzai with their only daughter behind. The plan was to relocate to South Africa as soon as Thomas had settled. In the first six months Thomas supported Fadzai with groceries, school fees and rentals. A shift began after Thomas had started seeing other women in South Africa. Thomas started sending money enough for rentals, school fees and a few groceries. The...