Zimbabwe’s golden generation of musicians — the likes of the Four Brothers, Leonard Dembo , Zex Manatsa, Devera Ngwena and Safirio “Mukadota” Madzikatire — gave the nation timeless sounds that defined an era. Yet, as the years pass, their music risks fading from the public’s ear, remembered only during weddings, funerals or by nostalgic radio presenters.
Around the world, young musicians are reproducing and refreshing the works of their predecessors, ensuring the music remains relevant for new audiences. Zimbabwe’s youth must follow suit to keep alive a cultural legacy that defines who we are.
Bob Marley’s reggae lives on through countless covers and remixes in Jamaica. The US still reveres the jazz standards of Miles Davis and John Coltrane, kept alive by new generations. The Beatles’ music continues to chart thanks to re-releases and reinterpretations.
In Nigeria, the rhythms of Fela Kuti are woven into modern Afrobeats, while in South Africa, Hugh Masekela’s sound remains a staple in contemporary collaborations. Zimbabwe should be no different.
The Four Brothers pioneered jit, a fast paced guitar driven sound that remains uniquely Zimbabwean. With hits such as Rudo Imoto, Vimbai, Makorokoto and Zvese Mari, they gave the nation a soundtrack for celebration. Yet, how often is their music played in modern spaces?
If a young Zimbabwean band were to take the Four Brothers’ style and fuse it with today’s Afro-fusion, they would not only preserve jit but create something that resonates across generations.
Leonard Dembo’s music remains etched in national memory, with Chitekete still the soundtrack of weddings three decades later.
His sungura guitar and deep lyrics made him a poet of the people, addressing themes of love, hardship and dignity.
- In the groove: Is Patrick Mukwamba jinxed?
- In the groove: Is Patrick Mukwamba jinxed?
- In the groove: Old music has cultural impact
- In the groove: Bothwell Nyamhondera: A distinguished music producer
Keep Reading
Yet Dembo’s rich catalogue extends beyond his most famous track. Young artists should not be afraid to remix and reinterpret his music, blending sungura with contemporary sounds to ensure his voice continues to inspire.
Zex Manatsa brought both joy and reflection to Zimbabwean music, his gospel -influenced songs resonating with ordinary people.
Manatsa’s work offers fertile ground for today’s musicians to reimagine faith-based music that appeals not only locally, but across global Christian markets.
Mutisi is a political analyst. Cell: +263772278161.
