Leornard Dembo-Inspired-Musician Set to Release New Album

Wilfred Madyara

By Godwin Makoho

Hurungwe-raised Sungura musician, Wilfred Madyara, who says is inspired by the late music icon Leornad Dembo, is set to release a six track album, which he is finalising at Trutone Studios in Harare.

Madyara, who fronts Bembedzo Express is confident that his new album will give music lovers a fresh dose of sungura music that combines traditional and modern elements of the genre.

He believes the current crop of musicians have a lot to learn from yester year musicians in the calibre of Leornad Dembo, Simon Chimbetu, Tongai Moyo, Oliver Mtukudzi, Marshal Munhumumwe, Thomas Mapfumo among others.

With special reference to Dembo, the musician said the Chitekete hitmaker holds a special place in the Zimbabwe music as many lessons from music itself to life, can be drawn from his art.

“In the music industry Dembo left a legacy that is inspirational. His music was unique and rich in teachings from music itself to life in general,” said Madyara.

Madyara has roped in the services of seasoned guitarists and producers, in the form of veteran producer Jabulani Ndlovu, and guitarists Willard “Wilo” Loti, Evidence Tarabuku and Savious Karikodzi who have seen it all in the industry having recorded many hit albums.

When this reporter caught up with him in Harare recently, he was upbeat with the progress made on his upcoming album.

“I am currently working on my second album titled “Muridzi Wazvo”, which carries six tracks. I’m recording at Trutone Studios where I also recorded my first album.

“The new album is a great improvement and we have made sure that we package the music for best quality,” he said.

“Although I didn’t didn’t collaborate with any other musician on this new album,  I worked with a seasoned team which has seen it all in the industry. I look forward to featuring other top sungura musicians in future,” said Madyara.

The album features songs, Baba naMai, Zvingwarire, Yeuka among others.

Madyara, riding on his experiences in his rural home, sings about society themes and his songs revolve around social aspects of life such as duties of the parent, love and unity.

His first album titled Mavambo Azvo produced  the hit song “Jemedza” which was received well by sungura lovers.

Jemedza speaks to the dilemma of distant relationship where some spouses, after leaving the other partner behind and going away for work, end up abandoning   their families.

The talented rhythm guitarist was born in Hurungwe  in 1986, being the seventh born in a  family of nine. He went to  Sungwi
Primary School and Tengwe Secondary School.

It was during his secondary school time that Madyara started playing the guitar.  His brother, Tendai was in a business of making and selling guitars so young Wilfred took advantage of this business to learn the guitar.

Although he started playing at a tender age, he could not record any music because he did not have the money for studio recording.

“I couldn’t record because there was no money for that. Everything needs funding and  for an artiste, you need money for recording, instruments, transport, marketing , distribution, etc and without this you will struggle,” said Madyara.

Madyara believes this time around he has struck the right codes and the fans will dance to good music when he releases the album.