Sulu begins work on new ‘blockbuster’

Sulumani

HARARE – There is no doubt that talent abounds in Dendera music star Suluman Chimbetu whose consistency, since the death of his father — Simon — has thrust him on top of the pile in local music circles.

And almost a year after releasing Gunship, an album which showed his versatility and expansive lyrical field, Sulu is back in the studio where he has set his heart on releasing a festive season blockbuster.

While his publicist — Joe “Local” Nyamungoma — was not specific on the title and release dates, the album is likely to take the young crooner to a new level as he continues on the path to becoming his own man, at least judging by the teaser the Daily News sampled.

Mweya weHondo, is a soulful song which chronicles the true life of Suluman as a young man who bade farewell to his parents to join the youth service and eventually the military, at the Airforce of Zimbabwe.

Nothing is left to imagination as the Sean Timba singer paints pictures of his early life in adulthood with gripping lyrics which pay tribute to the freedom fighters who participated in Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, while at the same time, showing a new generation which espoused the values that brought the independence.

From Kamativi, where Sulu performed his youth service, to Suri Suri, the Airforce of Zimbabwe base, just outside Chegutu, the young musician mentions every post that was part of his life before music.

Mweya weHondo is a sneak peek into his life as a soldier, a serviceman and a patriot. The rhythm and distinct bass guitars blend well with the trademark Dendera sound.

It acts as bridge between Simon’s beat on songs such as Ndizarurire and Sulu’s own style which is captured on Gunship. The spirit of the liberation runs in the Chimbetu family.

Although Simon did not go to the front, he went as far as Tanzania but participated heavily through his music which was replete with lyrics capturing the mood of the combatants and war itself.

His musical orientation was influenced by the liberation struggle and Ndarangarira Gamba, a song that has universal following among those who value the sacrifices made by the ex-combatants during the liberation struggle, sums it up.

Ndarangarira Gamba is a timeless song whose appeal to music lovers and indeed those associated with the liberation struggle, shows the talent, emotions and the artistry of The Chopper.

Simon was heavily involved in it by playing music for the “comrades” and Sulu continues with the legacy as Nyika ne Nyika, on Gunship and part of the new offering, Mweya weHondo, show.

There is more to expect in the forthcoming album. Daily News