HARARE - Somandla Ndebeles fans will see the unheralded side of the star with his latest release, Kutamba Hakubvaruki.Ndebele has gained a cult following during his 17-year career. This is his 19th album, and comes after the chart success of his previous album, Chitenderano, which was recorded in South Africa.
Ndebele began his musical education through his school’s youth choir. His interest in music continued, and in 1989, while still in high school, Somandla released his first single. Mandisomera/Chidochemoyo ended charting in the Top 20. Three more singles followed before Somandla moved on to albums.
Between 1992 and 1995, Somandla released three albums on RTP, most notably 1993’s Vanondivenga Hawachapera, which produced his first true hit, Nditungamirirei. However, success wasn’t forthcoming. Moving to Gramma Records, Ndebele’s popularity heightened with hits like Watyora Chitsidzo (from 1996’s Ziva Zvaunoda), and Zvikoni Zvikoni (from 1997’s Kusaziva Kufa). His greatest success came via Wakandidana from his album 1998 Tendai.
Somandla has continued to produce albums, including his 2002 compilation Tsanangudzo, which serves as a career retrospective. He has also released several albums including duets after that, including with fellow Kwekwe star Tongai Moyo.
The latest album confirms Ndebele as a sungura artist to reckon with.
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