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Talent knows no age

Life & Style
Letheng Chikozho

Music is undoubtedly an inborn talent for Letheng Chikozho.

The young man, who began singing in praise and worship groups, has demonstrated that talent knows no age after releasing his new extended play Tinofamba Nemweya comprising seven songs he composed.

Even though he is just 11 years old, Letheng is already a force to be reckoned with, thanks to his lovely voice.

Despite having been hindered for the past two years by the COVID-19 global pandemic, the young man never lost heart. The support he got from his family and music producers kept him going.

The protégé of Afro-traditional music began singing at a tender age of five having been born and nurtured in a Christian family, where singing of church hymns was the order of day.

Letheng (a Setswana word which expresses one’s good spirits when greeted) demonstrated a high sense of self-worth that astounded fellow church members while growing up.

Like most African parents, Letheng’s parents were hesitant to encourage him because they didn't think he would make it as a musician, but as an academic. His father, Takesure Chikozho said: “At the beginning of his music career, we pushed him to focus more on his books since we were doubtful about his ambitions to pursue music. Little did we know his talent was starting to blossom and awakening like a sleeping giant.”

When Letheng was seven years old, his elder brother Liberty, a well-known songwriter, encouraged his younger sibling after he was identified as the family's wonder boy.

The younger sibling then wrote the song Mweya wangu, which was recorded by Elvis Mushakari, who owns Notenice Records in Kuwadzana Extension, Harare.

Chikozho’s father said: “With support of his family, the boy had other singles released at Black Shadow Music Records in Mbare.”

The singles were Sarudzo on mwamuka riddim, Havagone Kunyarara on double impact riddim and Mweya wekumarinda on an unspecified riddim.

Letheng was also fortunate to meet Blosio Machingura, better known as Steezy Beatz, a former Yala Nation producer who helped him advance his brand and career.

The two first ran into each other at Black Shadow Records.

Letheng’s performance during recording mesmerised Steezy Beatz, who decided to offer him free recording.

Letheng’s new singles, such as Rona and Hazvinei, were released by Steezy Beatz, who is also currently working on more tracks yet to be released.

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