MUTARE-based businessman and sungura musician Brian Samaita is also in the run to secure the signatures of the three Alick Macheso’s Orchestra Mberikwazvo deserters.
REPORT BY OBEY MANAYITI
The musician, who has in the past months been trying to fit into the shoes of his late friend and icon Tongai “Dhewa” Moyo said he is also in the bid to lure Jonas Kasamba, Obert Gomba and Noel Nyazanda.
Samaita has been looking for band members to strengthen his Murondatsimba Express ensemble.
This week he revealed to NewsDay that he was in negotiations with Kasamba and the other deserters who left Macheso last week. “I am now trying to assemble a band which will be based here in Mutare,” said Samaita.
“I am very keen to have Kasamba and company in my band. We are trying to negotiate with them, but before we reach a conclusion I would want them to be cleared by Alick (Macheso) first. I know the value they will add to my band and I will want them to be part of us.”
Samaita joins the likes of Energy Mutodi who have expressed interest in recruiting some of the musicians. Kasamba refused to divulge details of their negotiations, saying he is not yet prepared to talk to the media. Samaita released his first album late last year titled Nemiwo Munazvo as a tribute to his late friend with the help of ex-Utakataka Express band members.
According to Gramma Records, the album is doing fairly well.
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The Mutare-based musician hogged the limelight recently when he announced that he composed some songs for Dhewa.
Dhewa’s son, Peter, often referred to as the “Young Igwe” refuted the claims resulting in a verbal war between the two.
They have, however, since reconciled and recently shared the stage in the eastern border city during the Mutare Festival held at Pick ‘n’ Save.
On the sidelines of the gig Peter told NewsDay he has no grudge against Samaita and he respects him as his father’s friend.
On the other hand Samaita has repeatedly said he views Peter as his son because of his closeness to Dhewa.
