Philip Chiyangwa writes lyrics for new song

FLAMBOYANT businessman and philanthropist, cum-songwriter Philip Chiyangwa is reported to have written lyrics for sungura musician Taruvinga Manjokota's popularly known as Shuga Shuga - forthcoming album, which is expected before Chrismas.

In an interview, Shuga Shuga said Chiyangwa wrote lyrics for his song Ngatidadenayo.

"We had plans to go into the studio with Mr Chiyangwa, but unfortunately being the busy man that he is, he only managed to write the lyrics," said ShugaShuga

The Budiriro-based musician said lyrics on Ngatidadenayo encourage all Zimbabweans to be patriotic and proud of their country.

Part of the lyrics go Ngatidadenayo Zimbabwe yamakapa simba remari teererai Mwari, wedzerai zhinji . . . (let's be proud of Zimbabwe which you have endowed with the power of wealth, hear us, Lord, may you greatly increase our money).

Contacted for comment Chiyangwa confirmed the development, adding that it is his wish to take the arts industry to new heights.

"Yes, I wrote the lyrics for Shuga Shuga because it is my wish to work to improve the arts industry.

That's why I featured in Munya Chidzonga's movie (Lobola) and in songs by other artists and I hope we are going to achieve noticeable improvement in the arts industry," said Chiyangwa.

Shuga Shuga said the delay of the release has been a result of piracy, which he said affects the distribution of copies.

"It has been delayed because of piracy because you can't release an album which will illegally be marketed and distributed," he said.

Meanwhile, Manjokota urged the authorities and legislators to eradicate piracy, which he labelled "the devil".

"I urged authorities and legislators that represent us as musicians to do something in removing this devil that is hindering success in our industry", he said.

In line with the anti-piracy theme, Shuga Shuga recorded the song Wodakutindiitesei which will also feature on the next album.

The album will also feature songs such as Nditungamirirei, Chibhubhunu and the title track Wodakutindiitesei.

Shuga Shuga is a sungura musician whose music has been well received, leading to a National Arts Merit Award and a residential stand from Chiyangwa in 2009 in recognition of his work.