Former Orchestra Mberikwazvo rhythm guitarist Zakaria Zakaria has formed a band called Chilli Boys as he bounces back to music full-time.
Zakaria recorded one album titled Tererai with session musicians last year when he parted ways with Alick Macheso. His band will launch performances this Easter Holiday, beginning with a show at Beatrice Motel. “I am now getting into full-time music and I am happy that people have received my first album well and as of now we are working on the second album,” said Zakaria. “Zaka Zaka”, as he is fondly known by his fans, said he had decided to employ instrumentalists he worked with on his first album on a full-time basis. “I took the guys with whom I have recorded. When we recorded, they were just session musicians, but now we are full-time. I tell you we are going forward,” he said. Asked how he had been doing after deserting Orchestra Mberikwazvo, the versatile musician said he was working on his plot. “I have been farming and it has helped me because I managed to get some instruments and to pay for the first album,” he said. He has thanked his former boss Macheso and his brother Nicholas “Madzibaba” Zakaria for being supportive of his endeavour. In a separate interview, Madzibaba said he would support his brother. “Chilli Boys and Khiama Boys are one. I will not let him endure dificulties without my support. I am happy that he has a good voice and fans should expect our collaboration soon,” said Madzibaba.
