HARARE - One of Zimbabwe's most prolific lyricists, Leonard Karikoga Zhakata, is a disappointed man. (Pictured: Zhakata is still at loggerheads with ZMC after they refused to release his album)
This comes after his former music stable, Zimbabwe Music Corporation (ZMC), owned by Zanu (PF) apologist Elias Musakwa, failed to release the long-awaited album Gotwe/Last Born from the gifted composer. Close sources within ZMC said the music stable is now under full control of Zanu (PF).
“There have been some major changes in the company (ZMC) since Elias Musakwa took over. Everything is now political. Zhakata’s music was censored by the Zanu (PF) politicians that are now running the company and they felt that his album was not politically correct. That is the reason why his album was put on hold,” said the ZMC source.
Following this event Zhakata has left the music stable, but ZMC is refusing to hand over the master copy to Zhakata who has set his eyes on Metro Studios. “I have left the stable (ZMC). I do not know why they are holding on to my album. It is now two years. I am already in some negotiations with other stables to ensure that the album is released sooner,” said the talented vocalist.
“Sources have told me that my album would not make it after some of the songs were politically misinterpreted. I did not take them seriously, but with this delay and lack of clarity on the issue has made me to believe that it might be true that my album will never be released,” explained Zhakata.
“ZMC should have clearly stated that the contents of my album did not tally with the company’s policy and they should have left me seeking alternative distributors. “I would like to reiterate that I am not a politically oriented musician, I do not support any political party and as such do not sing for any politician. My music is about Zimbabweans and for them,” explained the ZORA music superstar.
The issue has been described as a sad development and an act of cowardice by his legion of fans. “I do not know why they have blacklisted his music. As his fans we are being starved of his new music I think Zanu (PF) should stop harassing musicians like that,” said David Matsika, a Zhakata fan. “My message to Zhakata is that he must not lose hope. Good things shall come to pass. Everything has got a beginning and an ending. We have confidence that Zhakata will dominate again,” said Alois Makoni, another Zhakata fan.
ZMC managing director Emmanuel Vori refused to comment. Zhakata’s musical career started with Maungwe Brothers. Formed in the late 80s with his cousin, fellow singer Thomas Makion, they released two albums before splitting to pursue solo careers. Makion played back-up on Zhakata’s smash 1994 solo album Maruva Enyika, which spawned the huge hit Mugove and sold more than 120 000 copies.
Zhakata retuned the favour by backing Makion on his solo album of the same year, Makorokoto. Zhakata is best known for his hit albums that include Maruva Enyika, Nhamo Dzenyika, Nzombe Huru, Vagoni Vebasa and Pakuyambuka.
However, it was his 1994 smash Mugove, from the album Maruva Enyika, which propelled him to domestic stardom. His 1996 album, Nzombe Huru, sold more than 130 000 copies. Zhakata is famous for his lyrical skill and is also known for his sponsorship of a successful anti-piracy campaign which encouraged consumers to purchase valid copies of his tapes in return for the chance to win prizes.
Post published in: Uncategorized