Life after Zhakata for Vagoni Stars

Vagoni Stars, a youthful musical outfit that split from Leonard Zhakata’s Zimbabwe All Stars Band, has claimed its place in the musical arena following the recent release of its debut album - Mubiki Wazvose.

George Chembe: Vagoni Stars poised for dizzy heights.
George Chembe: Vagoni Stars poised for dizzy heights.

Led by George Chembe, 34, the group weaned itself from Zhakata’s top billing band to start its own project – believing it had matured enough to venture into the musical jungle.

Chembe (lead guitarist and lead vocals) and Anold Mucheche, 27, (choreographer and vocals), left Zhakata in March this year after serving with the All Stars Band for 13 and three years respectively.

Unlike other bands, which falter on being weaned from their mentor, Vagoni Stars has proved to music fans that there is life after Zhakata.

Other band members include Taurai Munyanyi (Drums), Baggy Mwanyali (vocals), Tichaona Bindi (Rhythm guitarist), George Chiremba (Marimba) and one Nesbert (Bass guitarist).

Their eight track album, which is being marketed by Diamond Music Promotions, has caused waves in commuter omnibuses, private cars, beer outlets and homes. It includes songs titled Hande, Munyaradzi, Zvabvepi, Idawekwako, Hope, Teerera, Mhinduro and Mhandu.

The band is based in Chitungwiza’s Unit N and plays both Sungura and Rhumba music. Chembe popularly known as Zhorizho, told The Zimbabwean that the band was poised for dizzy heights, as it had its own musical kit and the necessary talent.

He dismissed rumours that they had rebelled from Zhakata as baseless and malicious.

“We parted ways with Zhakata because we felt that we had matured enough to start our own project and grow in the music industry,” Chembe said, adding that they continued to enjoy good relations with Zhakata, whom he described as an outstanding mentor.

Chembe took the opportunity to tell their fans that ‘the split had nothing to do with differences’ and they desired to stage joint live shows with Zimbabwe All Stars. “In fact we owe our success to the mentorship provided by Zhakata and look forward to more guidance,” he said.

Earlier this year, Ochestra Kwazvose split from Alic Macheso’s Ochestra Mberikwazho and hit top of the musical charts with their debut album, Ndizvo Zviripo.

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