beginnings to pursue a musical career. His musical career has been doing well, putting him among the country’s talented gospel artistes. He is currently riding high with his new release on the market, Spiritual Battle produced by Last Power Media. Entertainment Editor Ruth Butaumocho (RB) had an interview with Mafunga (DM) at the launch of his new album in Harare recently.
RB: When did you venture into music and can you say it was a calling?
DM: My love for music started in the rural areas of Mount Darwin back in the 80s. We would hold jam sessions with banjos while herding cattle. The passion for music developed and I began singing in church, and it was only in 2003 that I decided to have some of my songs recorded. I then approached Gramma Records with demo tapes and unfortunately they turned me down, saying my music was not marketable.
Spurred by a passion to venture into music full time, I used my own resources to record my first album at Shed Studios, “Endai Naizvozvo”.
I had to go back to Gramma Records so that they could market the album for me. Initially they refused but after some persuasion, they eventually agreed. The album was well received by fans. Although I don’t have the actual figures, I am convinced the sales of the album were fair.
RB: How many albums have you released to date and which ones can you say have done well?
DM: I have released five albums so far. All of them were well received but I must say my debut album, “Endai Naizvozvo”, surpassed others. What normally happens is that when you have released a new album and people enjoy it, they often go to retail shops looking for your first album, probably to ascertain whether you were good when you started.
RB: You have on a number of occasions confessed that you love reggae, does that mean that you are a Rastafarian?
DM: No, I am not a Rastafarian, I am a Christian. I just love reggae music, I enjoy it.
RB: You also have got a twin brother who is into music. Can you tell us the genre he plays and have you done joint projects?
DM: His name is called Danias Mafunga. Like I alluded to earlier, we both developed a passion for music while growing up. But, of course, I was the first one to record an album, because I was living in Harare, while my brother was in Mount Darwin where he is working. He is also a gospel musician. We are planning on holding combined shows in the near future.
RB: At one time you were arrested for allegedly defrauding your employer, Chitungwiza Municipality. How did your case end and are you still with the municipality?
DM: I was acquitted due to lack of evidence. It was nothing but malice that was meant to tarnish my image. I was suspended for a year and was eventually reinstated. A year later, in 2008 I resigned to pursue my musical career and I have not looked back.
RB: You recently joined Last Power Media. How are things at the stable?
DM: I moved from Gramma Records to Last Power Media and let me say I am happy with the terms and conditions that I got from the recording company. I am working with them on this project alone, but given the opportunity I want to continue working with the recording company. I just hope they will be able to give other artistes the same terms, which I believe are very conducive and flexible.
RB: There are reports that you were born blind. How far true is it?
DM: It is not true, I was not born blind. I don’t know how many times I have heard that piece of news.
RB: Most musicians say they are struggling to make ends meet and cannot survive on music alone. How different is your situation?
DM: I do have a number of projects that I am currently involved in to supplement the income that I get from record sales and live shows. I have a shop in my rural home of Chisodza in Mount Darwin and I am also involved in farming, although this year I did not grow anything. I also have a PA system that I hire out, so the situation is not very dire.
RB: What are your future plans as a musician?
DM: I am planning on recording a live DVD in a few months’ time, and I will also continue to hold shows in Harare and other towns and cities throughout the country. I want to reach out to my fans and continue promoting my music.
RB: Are you taken, I mean are you married?
DM: Yes, I am married to Eustine and we are blessed with three kids.
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