AFRO-JAZZ star Willom Tight’s fans, who have been waiting patiently for the release of his latest album, Manifesto, initially scheduled for 2013, will have to take comfort in his single, Money, which will be released tomorrow on iTunes. BY WINSTONE ANTONIO
Manifesto, which was produced by Shamiso Music and Entertainment, has reportedly become a victim of an alleged fallout between Willom and the producer, but they have since ironed out their differences.
Shamiso Music and Entertainment spokesperson Gilbert Muvavarirwa confirmed the release of the single which will be accompanied by a video shot in South Africa.
“From next week, the video of Money will start showing on MTV Base, Channel O, Trace and other international satellite music channels,” he said.
The single, featuring Runtown and South Africa’s Uhuru, has been said to have all the ingredients to make it onto the international scene.
Muvavarirwa said the release should not be misconstrued for Willom’s return, but a declaration of his intention to leave a mark on the world music scene
“This album, as its name suggests, is a published verbal declaration of his intentions, motives, or views pertaining to his career,” he said.
“Manifesto is not the return of the cherished Tight, but this is the affirmation, ascension and consolidation of the brand and its value proposition, while positioning for the international market.”
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The album, which carries 15 tracks includes collaborations and productions by Salif Keita (Mali), Uhuru (South Africa), Runtown (Nigeria), Lando Dlamini (Swaziland), Cape Town-based Zimbabwean Maxwell Musopero Vidima, Speedy (South Africa), Sifiso Mbede (South Africa) and Erik Paliani (Malawi).
It is Tight’s fourth studio album.
According to Tight, he adopted an innovative approach to this latest project and it will showcase his vocal capabilities and delivery.
He said working on an album in South Africa presented him with a rare opportunity to increase his popularity.
“I recorded this album with other international singers in South Africa so that I can venture into new territories while increasing my fan base,” he said.
Some of the tracks from the upcoming album that was mostly produced by DJ Maphorisa of Uhuru include Ntoni Yamanzi, Imi Munosara Naani, Africa, Mvura Naya Naya, Summer Love and African Paradox featuring Salif Keita that premiered as the soundtrack in Australia in the movie Road to Freedom’s Peak.
Tight, born Willboard Muponda, started off his music career as a rapper at Mateo and Friends, and went on to make waves on the local scene with the album Ndinoda Wangu in 2000 before releasing Hodzeko in 2003, both under Shamiso Music and Entertainment.
He was to part ways with the company and went on to record Kuza Ngoma in 2008 and Chinyerere in 2011.
Tight is now concentrating on an Afro-centric genre that introduces Zimbabwean cultural heritage to the world and on the forthcoming album, the musician explores and blends other musical styles and genres.
The musician has also collaborated with some of Zimbabwe’s finest musicians who include Oliver Mtukudzi and Dino Mudondo.
Tight’s fortunes in recent years have given many a music fan heartbreaks as he remained edged in more potential than exploits, appearing to be so close to being a mega-star yet staying parked in the doldrums.
