IN a stirring homage to one of Zimbabwe’s quiet influential musical talents, Highfield-based musician Durrell Nyazika has released a powerful tribute single in honour of the late Lancelot Mapfumo — a percussionist whose conga rhythms once breathed life into the mbira-driven soundscapes of the legendary Thomas Mapfumo.
Recorded at Mutinhimira Media under the expert guidance of producer Benson Yard, the track is more than a musical offering.
It is a memory etched in melody — a heartfelt salute to a man whose congas spoke louder than words.
Nyazika traces his inspiration to Glamis Arena in 2018, during Thomas’ iconic Big Bira concert.
It was there that he first witnessed Lancelot’s magic live.
That performance planted a seed.
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When Lancelot passed away, Nyazika felt compelled to compose something worthy — not just for Zimbabwe, but for the world to remember him by.
Lancelot, the younger brother of Thomas and long-time percussionist in the Blacks Unlimited Band, died on September 18, 2022, in the United States after a battle with bone cancer.
He was 68.
His passing on marked the end of an era for Chimurenga music — and for Nyazika, it became the catalyst for the tribute.
Listeners tuning in to Star FM during the song’s launch were quick to recognise Nyazika’s rich baritone and seamless fusion of mbira and contemporary elements.
Some even asked if he was related to Thomas or Kurai Makore — a testament to the authenticity of his sound.
Yet Nyazika is forging his own path.
Rooted in tradition but boldly modern, his voice carries the weight of heritage and the promise of innovation.
With Yard’s seasoned production and Mutinhimira Media’s sonic craftsmanship, the track is crisp, soulful and deeply respectful.
It doesn’t just mourn — it celebrates.
It invites listeners to remember Lancelot not only as a musician, but as the heartbeat behind a movement.
And in doing so, it positions Nyazika as one of the most compelling young voices in Zimbabwean music today.