Bernard Muchemwa in SYDNEY, Australia
ZIMBABWEANS here have the void of home music filled by budding artist Mabasa Ziyambi.
He is churning out sweet melodies for Zimbabwean music lovers, week-in week-out at various venues and homes.
Ziyambi forms a link between Diasporans in Australia and Zimbabwean based artistes and other singing groups.

On November 16 he belted out most of his top songs backing Selmor Mtukudzi’s performances held in the main cities of Australia and he did not disappoint.

He left fans asking for more of his sweet tunes including the trend setter “Kuwe” a piece of brilliance.
Whenever a Zimbabwean group visits Australia, Ziyambi performs with his Afro band as a supporting act.
He has followed in the footsteps of famous overseas musicians like Audious Mtawarira and TK Maidza.

His story is a vivid example of many who have overcome adversities faced by many Zimbabweans settling in far- away lands and has followed his hobby to the letter.

Being away from home might be unsettling and can lead to many of us losing our interest in things we loved before.
But, Ziyambi is undeterred and full of zeal on the music scene.

Known as “General Bazuka”, Ziyambi is the lead singer of the group Afroz Band based in Sydney, Australia.
The group is multicultural and performs more of the Zimbabwean jazz and Jiti music. To date they have released three albums which were well received as they got themselves familiar with the audience.

Ziyambi said: “Our Zimbabwean music is growing bigger as evidenced by non-Zimbabwean audiences attending most of our shows. Our most popular and well received videos are “Bvaru bvaru” and “Kuwe” judging by the people’s reactions towards the two songs.

We use music as a way of communicating human feelings especially in real life situations.
On Kuwe, the idea came as a result of the pain brought about by domestic violence. In the song a woman begs to be loved not to be treated like a punching bag.

“All our songs are Produced at Bazuka Studios which is run by a musician and Zimbabwean manager Faith Napazi. The producer is Casper Beats also based in Zimbabwe.”

Asked about the challenges of being a musician overseas, Ziyambi had this to say: “Life as a musician in the Diaspora has its own challenges especially that we juggle between work, school and music. Language barriers also affect the fan base.

“We must explain at times the meaning of the songs to the audience. The positive is once accepted, you will become a regular.”
Ziyambi uses YouTube and social media to market his music.

He also makes use of community platforms that include Zimbabweans in Australia as well as a team led by Simba Antonio who doubles as the band’s Stage Manager and communications and liaison officer.

“Also, some Zimbabwean friends make some noise on our behalf.
“It’s a bit challenging to understand how I manage but because I love music things simply happen. It helps in relieving stress and at times. I prioritise what needs my urgent attention,” he said.

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