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Madzibaba fans prepare huge send off
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Nicholas "Madzibaba" Zakaria, legendary frontman of the Khiama Boys, passed away yesterday at Chitungwiza Central Hospital after a long battle with diabetes. He was 69.
Madzibaba, hailed as a mentor, icon, and hero of Zimbabwe's music industry, made significant contributions to the growth of the arts and played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of numerous stars, including Alick Macheso. He will be laid to rest at a family shrine in Chiweshe on Sunday.
Tributes poured in from fellow musicians, fans, and neighbours, who gathered at his home in Chitungwiza A Extension to celebrate his life and legacy. Macheso described Madzibaba as a "bridge" in the sungura genre, guiding many emerging artists to success. "I am who I am because of his generosity and mentorship. He was a bridge to some of us who passed through his hands and class," Macheso said, fighting back tears.
Madzibaba's younger brother, Zachariah Zakaria, reflected on the profound influence his elder brother had on his life, calling him "a pillar and a guide who shaped my career." His widow, Margaret Gweshe, expressed her heartbreak, noting, "We have lost a father and a pillar who served as our shield. We did our best, but sadly, there was nothing we could do to save him."
Veteran arts promoter Barbara "Mama Red Rose" Chikosi remembered Madzibaba as a humble role model who instilled discipline and focus in upcoming musicians. Simon Mutambi and Nasho Azatti, among others, echoed these sentiments, crediting him for shaping their musical and professional journeys.
Madzibaba's health struggles had been publicly reported in January last year, with complications from hypertension and diabetes affecting his mobility and daily life. Despite offers of support, he continued working on his 30th album until his passing.
Over his illustrious career, Madzibaba nurtured a host of talents, including the late Cephas Karushanga, Amon Mvula, Aaron Chinamira Chakanyuka, System Tazvida, and Alick Macheso. His contributions as a composer, songwriter, choreographer, and left-handed lead guitarist left an indelible mark on Zimbabwe's music industry.
The funeral wake was attended by the Orchestra Mberikwazvo ensemble and notable artists such as Simon Mutambi, Spencer Khumulani, Lioness Gwenyambira, Francis "Slomo" Dakha, and Loveness Mainato, ensuring that Madzibaba Zakaria's legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
Madzibaba, hailed as a mentor, icon, and hero of Zimbabwe's music industry, made significant contributions to the growth of the arts and played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of numerous stars, including Alick Macheso. He will be laid to rest at a family shrine in Chiweshe on Sunday.
Tributes poured in from fellow musicians, fans, and neighbours, who gathered at his home in Chitungwiza A Extension to celebrate his life and legacy. Macheso described Madzibaba as a "bridge" in the sungura genre, guiding many emerging artists to success. "I am who I am because of his generosity and mentorship. He was a bridge to some of us who passed through his hands and class," Macheso said, fighting back tears.
Madzibaba's younger brother, Zachariah Zakaria, reflected on the profound influence his elder brother had on his life, calling him "a pillar and a guide who shaped my career." His widow, Margaret Gweshe, expressed her heartbreak, noting, "We have lost a father and a pillar who served as our shield. We did our best, but sadly, there was nothing we could do to save him."
Veteran arts promoter Barbara "Mama Red Rose" Chikosi remembered Madzibaba as a humble role model who instilled discipline and focus in upcoming musicians. Simon Mutambi and Nasho Azatti, among others, echoed these sentiments, crediting him for shaping their musical and professional journeys.
Madzibaba's health struggles had been publicly reported in January last year, with complications from hypertension and diabetes affecting his mobility and daily life. Despite offers of support, he continued working on his 30th album until his passing.
Over his illustrious career, Madzibaba nurtured a host of talents, including the late Cephas Karushanga, Amon Mvula, Aaron Chinamira Chakanyuka, System Tazvida, and Alick Macheso. His contributions as a composer, songwriter, choreographer, and left-handed lead guitarist left an indelible mark on Zimbabwe's music industry.
The funeral wake was attended by the Orchestra Mberikwazvo ensemble and notable artists such as Simon Mutambi, Spencer Khumulani, Lioness Gwenyambira, Francis "Slomo" Dakha, and Loveness Mainato, ensuring that Madzibaba Zakaria's legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
Source - The Herald
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