Introduction
In Zimbabwe, the king of Sungura music is known as Alick Macheso. The renowned musician rose to fame in the mid-’90s and has since become a legendary figure in the country’s music scene. As a young boy growing up in the town of Shamva, Macheso had a passion for music. He would fashion his own homemade guitars and entertain his siblings and friends with songs he had written. This love for music blossomed into a career that has spanned decades, producing hit after hit and influencing generations of musicians who followed in his footsteps. In this blog post, we’ll look at the inspiring rise of Alick Macheso and how he became Zimbabwe’s king of Sungura.
The Early Years
Alick Macheso was born on June 10th, 1968, in Shamva, a town in the Mashonaland Central province of Zimbabwe. He grew up in a large family, sharing a small home with eight siblings. Macheso’s father was a miner, and his mother sold vegetables to make ends meet. Macheso was particularly close to his father, who had a passion for music and would often sing and play the guitar at home. Although Macheso’s father died when he was only nine years old, his love for music continued to grow. He taught himself how to play the guitar and began performing at local events.
From the Orchestra to Zimbabwe’s King of Sungura
In the early ’90s, Macheso left Shamva for Harare, the capital city of Zimbabwe, to join the band Khiama Boys. He quickly made a name for himself as a talented bass guitarist and backing vocalist, contributing to the band’s rise to fame. In 1997, Macheso left Khiama Boys and formed his own band, Orchestra Mberikwazvo. The band’s debut album, Magariro (Funeral), was an instant hit and solidified Macheso’s status as a rising star in Zimbabwean music. Macheso’s style of music, Sungura, blended traditional Zimbabwean rhythms and melodies with influences from Soukous and Rumba music from the Congo. With each new album, Macheso’s popularity grew, and he became known as Zimbabwe’s king of Sungura.
The Legacy of Alick Macheso
Alick Macheso has released more than a dozen albums throughout his career, and his music has influenced generations of Zimbabwean musicians. His unique blend of traditional and contemporary sounds has made him a household name in Zimbabwe, and his music has gained popularity in neighboring countries, including Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique. Macheso has won countless awards for his music, including several National Arts Merit Awards, Zimbabwe’s equivalent to the Grammy Awards. His music has been featured in films, and he has even been invited to perform for the President of Zimbabwe.
The Philanthropist
In addition to his success as a musician, Alick Macheso is also known for his philanthropic work. He is actively involved in several charitable organizations, including the Zimbabwe Agricultural Development Trust and the Alick Macheso Music Foundation. The foundation provides musical instruments and training to young Zimbabweans who otherwise would not have access to these resources. Macheso also offers scholarships to talented young musicians, giving them the opportunity to further their education and pursue careers in music.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Sungura Music, and how did it originate?
Sungura is a type of music that originated in Zimbabwe in the late 1980s. It blends traditional Zimbabwean rhythms and melodies with influences from Congolese Soukous and Rumba music.
2. How many albums has Alick Macheso released?
Alick Macheso has released more than a dozen albums throughout his career.
3. What awards has Alick Macheso won?
Alick Macheso has won several National Arts Merit Awards, Zimbabwe’s equivalent to the Grammy Awards.
4. What charitable organizations is Alick Macheso involved in?
Alick Macheso is actively involved in several charitable organizations, including the Zimbabwe Agricultural Development Trust and the Alick Macheso Music Foundation.
5. What philanthropic work does Alick Macheso do?
Alick Macheso provides musical instruments and training to young Zimbabweans who otherwise would not have access to these resources. He also offers scholarships to talented young musicians, giving them the opportunity to further their education and pursue careers in music.
6. Where can I listen to Alick Macheso’s music?
Alick Macheso’s music can be found on streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube.
7. What is the significance of Alick Macheso’s legacy in Zimbabwe?
Alick Macheso’s unique blend of traditional and contemporary sounds has made him a household name in Zimbabwe, and his music has influenced generations of Zimbabwean musicians.
In Conclusion
Alick Macheso’s inspiring rise from a young boy in Shamva to Zimbabwe’s king of Sungura is a testament to the power of passion and determination. His music has touched the lives of millions of people, and his philanthropic work has made a difference in the lives of many Zimbabweans. Whether you’re a long-time fan or hearing his music for the first time, Alick Macheso’s legacy is one that is sure to endure for generations to come. So, turn up the volume, and let his music transport you to the vibrant streets of Harare.