Zimbabwe News Update
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6 min read
Joel TsvakwiMULTI-AWARD-WINNING musician D.T. BiO Mudimba and his band Kaani Stars continue to make waves on the local music scene following the release of their fifth single, Twabeyi, earlier this year.Amid speculation among fans that the singer is deliberately carving a unique path by releasing singles instead of full albums, D.T. BiO’s approach appears to be paying off.Barely four years into his musical journey, the Kujata Jata hitmaker has amassed several accolades since 2021, including Zima Best Sungura (2022), Nama Outstanding Newcomer (2022), Star FM Best Sungura (2022), and the Matabeleland Arts Awards (MLA) Best Single.He has shared the stage with some of Zimbabwe’s top musicians, including Alick Macheso, a milestone that many seasoned artistes are yet to achieve.
His talent has also seen him performing at national events and breaking new ground in various music circles.His breakout single Kujata Jata introduced him as a force in Sungura music, setting the tone for his preference for singles over albums, a move that has sparked debate among fans and industry watchers. While some critics question the sustainability of this strategy, others see it as a bold, game-changing move redefining the Sungura landscape.One music follower, Mujati, told this publication that D.T. BiO’s innovation mirrors the late Tongai “Dehwa” Moyo’s influence on the genre.“There’s nothing wrong with being innovative. Like Tongai Moyo, who brought style and modernity to Sungura, D.T. BiO is also reshaping the music scene.
Each single shows growth, and fans still love his sound,” said Mujati.Defending his choice, the soft-spoken and media-shy Mudimba said: “We broke through with singles and decided to keep that identity. It’s our way of differentiating the Kaani Stars brand from others that are known for releasing albums.”D.T. BiO’s blend of Tonga and Shona lyrics has broadened his fan base, making him a darling across linguistic and cultural divides.Speaking about his latest single Twabeyi Shuwa, the singer said it was inspired by the erosion of cultural and moral values in society.“Twabeyi Shuwa is a Tonga phrase meaning Tapindwa nei shuwa? (‘What has possessed us?’). I wrote it after realising that many people no longer show empathy.
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