INTERNATIONALLY-ACCLAIMED United Kingdom-based Zimbabwean mbira musician Linos Wengara Magaya is living his life in Zimbabwe, having lined up four shows in Harare that started on March 20 at Mushandirapamwe Hotel in Highfield, where he serenaded fans with his highly trending hits Fodya and Chaminuka, among others.
Seven days later, he descended on the Theatre in the Park in the Harare Gardens, then on Taita Sports Club Pachindege in Chitungwiza the next day before he closes today at The Grub restaurant in Eastlea.
In an interview with NewsDay Life & Style, Magaya revealed that mbira’s shimmering pulse rises like ancestral breath which is measured through modes which feels magnetic and are deeply evocative when he is performing mbira music.
“In each note, there is both memory and movement, a dialogue between past and present that transcends borders,” he said.
“For my homecoming shows, I have combined forces with Nyamasvisva and Maungira Enharira, Zee Guveya and other up-and-coming mbira artistes.”
From the spiritual landscapes of Mhondoro to stages in the United Kingdom, Magaya’s artistry carries Zimbabwe’s sonic heritage into global spaces, captivating audiences while preserving its sacred essence.
Keep Reading
- Covid-19 disrupted ZIBF impetus
- Creative reproductive health arts festival on the cards
- CRAFT festival oversubscribed
- Guards implicated in $14m theft
Magaya, a Zimbabwe-born musician, svikiro (spirit medium), educator and cultural ambassador, traces his roots to Kadoma and Mhondoro.
Now based in Brighton, he leads Zimbaremabwe and fronts the globally-renowned Linos Wengara Magaya & Zimbaremabwe Mbira Vibes.
His work blends performance with teaching and instrument-making, positioning mbira not only as music but as a living cultural archive and educational tool.
His international experience includes teaching at SOAS University of London and Goldsmiths, University of London, where he instructs students in Chimurenga ensemble performance and traditional mbira practices.
He has also led workshops across schools, colleges and community spaces, offering participants a deeper understanding of Zimbabwean cultural traditions.
His association with the Mbira Institute highlights growing global recognition of mbira music.
“Beyond universities, I have led workshops for people of all ages in schools, colleges and community settings,” he said.
“Through Zimbaremabwe, we also build mbira instruments and create educational resources, helping students to connect not only with music but also with the spiritual and cultural meaning behind it.”
Since 1998, Magaya reports recording 21 albums across various projects, including traditional mbira, mbira reggae and mbira pop.
These works reflect his effort to balance preservation with innovation.
“My recordings include traditional mbira recordings with Zimbaremabwe Mbira Vibes, mbira reggae projects with Pappa Linos & Nhasi Tafara Crew and mbira pop with Linos & the Pyramids.
“Each project represents a different dimension of my musical journey, from preserving tradition to exploring modern fusion styles.”
Magaya noted that international engagement with mbira is rising, particularly within academic and world music circles.
Mbira music serves as a bridge between communities, fostering dialogue and shared identity.
Its ceremonial role has long contributed to conflict resolution and social cohesion.
Through rhythm and storytelling, it promotes peace and cultural continuity.
It connects generations, preserving indigenous knowledge systems.
In its resonance lies a powerful tool for unity, healing and mutual understanding.
Magaya’s current tour in Harare reflects his commitment to reconnecting with local audiences and reinvesting global experience into Zimbabwe’s cultural landscape.
“So in mbira music, what makes it very intricate is because the instrument itself, the time signature of the Zezuru people, is 12/8, the beat time signature.
“So we syncopate within our rhythm, time signature-wise. So for a white person, that’s a very challenging and interesting rhythm.”
Magaya’s journey underscores the resilience of Zimbabwean cultural expression.
His work bridges continents while remaining rooted in tradition.
Through mbira, he continues to inspire cross-cultural appreciation.
His efforts highlight the need for sustained cultural investment.
Ultimately, his music affirms the enduring relevance of heritage in a modern world.
“We invite you in your numbers to come to our shows. Chaminuka bless! Nehanda bless!”