- Zim Music Primer -
Primer >> Traditional Artists
Unlike many other cultures, traditional music remains popular in Zimbabwe today. Below are some leading artists.
Ephat Mujuru and Spirit of the People
One of Zimbabwe's most reknowned mbira players, Ephat Mujuru emerged during the Rhodesian War with politically-charges songs. Well after independence, he remained a driving force within the Zimbabwean music industry with his group Spirit of the People. As well as founding Zimbabwe's national dance company, Ephat was one of the first Zimbabweans to teach mbira abroad. Sadly, Ephat died in 2001.
Dumisani Maraire
Both a teacher and a musician, Dumisani Maraire specialized in the marimba and the nyunga nyunga mbira. As a talented musician, Maraire inspired youth interest in traditional music in Zimbabwe. The 1970s saw him move aborad to the United States, where he helped introduce Americans to Shona culture. Dumisani taught marimba and mbira at the University of Washington and played in many Zim bands in the Pacific Northwest. He died in 1999.
Erica Azim
Erica Azim is an American mbira master. Falling in love with the mbira while in her teens, she proceeded to make Shona music her life's work. Erica has studied under both Ephat Mujuru and Dumisani Maraire. An accomplished musician and teacher, she has many albums to her credit. Erica is also the founder and director of MBIRA, her organization devoted to introducing Shona music and culture to Americans.
Forward Kwenda
Forward Kwenda is one of Zimbabwe's most respected musicians. A mbira student as a child, Forward led his own musical groups in Harare by the age of 17. His unique playing style has garnered both national and international acclaim. Forward has recorded a multitude of albums and has collaborated with many of Zimbabwe's top musicians. He also holds mbira workshops both in Zimbabwe and abroad.
Mbira Dzenharira
As mbira music continues to appeal, new groups rise to the forefront. Mbira Dzenharira are one such group. Led by Tendai Gahamadze, Dzenharira have reached popularity as a traditional band in a sea of electric artists. The young musicians songs reflect both traditional values and Zimbabwe's current political and economic situation.
Black Umfolosi
Black Umfolosi rose to international prominence during the South African craze sparked off by Paul Simon's hit album, Graceland. However, neither the mbira or the marimba are in the group's repetoire. Black Umfolosi are internationally-known for their a capella vocals. Drawing from Ndebele tradition, the group followed in the footsteps of Ladysmith Black Mombazo. Zimbabwe's Ndebele ambassadors have influenced the music of other Ndebele musicians, such as Solomon Skuza and Lovemore Majaivana, and are recognized internationally for their beautiful male harmonies and dancing.
