Zimpapers Logo

Yeukai Karengezeka Entertainment Reporter
Comedian Jeffrey Chikwesere, popularly known as Aphiri, is determined to break into the music industry. About four years ago, the musician announced his intention to release an album but some challenges with his record company kept the project in the pipeline.Aphiri says he has left the record company for a new stable and this year he is convinced his dream will materialise.

“For almost four years l encountered a lot of challenges to produce my album.

“I had a contract with a recording company but it was a waste of time.

“When we were at the mastering stage they told me that my album was missing in the system and that album carried six tracks and they kept on postponing studio time until my contract expired.

“Now that the contract has expired I am looking for another record company I can work with because I have already finished practicing the songs.

He said his forthcoming album has strong Zambian music influence.

“My forthcoming album is titled ‘Pick n’ Play’ and it has six tracks.

The musician dismissed the notion that his venture into the music industry was a move to compete with his former workmate in comedy productions, Freddy “Kapfupi” Manjalima who ventured into music.

Aphiri said his relationship with Kapfupi was good.

“What happened between us is a long story but what I can say is that we parted ways because Kapfupi chose to follow his musical career.

“In fact, we do visit each other but there has to be something tangible if we are to work together again,” he said.

Apart from music, Aphiri has a new film called “Takazviparira” addressing social issues and is approximately 70 minutes long.

“We a have a new movie called ‘Takazviparira’ that was produced last week and I am the main actor.”

Chikwesere started his career as an actor in 1991 and then joined Freddy “Kapfupi” Manjalima for street theatre acts before they were filmed on the street dramas for television which popularised the style.