For legendary Bulawayo musician Ndabezinhle Obediah Matulana, popularly known as Dr Jah Kanindo, music was never merely a career, but a calling.
But long before the international flights and packed shows, there was a young boy from Lupane, a guitar, and a herd of cattle that mysteriously went missing.
Matulana vividly recalled being in Grade Three at Silwane Primary School when his fascination with music nearly cost him his livestock.
“I remember one day I lost my malume’s cattle in the bush because I was playing an Oliven box guitar,” he said.
Born in Nyamandlovu, Matulana completed his secondary education at George Silundika High School in 1980, the dawn of Zimbabwe’s independence.
It was an era when music became a vehicle for identity and African languages.
Although his heart leaned towards reggae, he answered the call to promote indigenous culture, eventually creating his distinctive sound, “Kanindo Tshibilika,” while adopting the reggae moniker Dr. Jah Kanindo.
His big break came with “Divorce No. 1,” released on November 3, 1988.
The track became a national sensation, transforming the struggling artist into a household name.
Decades later, it remains a cherished memory for older generations and a discovery for new listeners.
Fame, however, came with frustration and setbacks.
At one point, Matulana stepped away to pursue writing, but the stage called him back.
Today, based in Bulawayo, he continues performing locally and internationally.
His collaborators have included luminaries like the late Moses Rwizi, Albert Nyathi, Sotsha Moyo, and Madlela Skhobokhobo.
Speaking of his global fans, he said: “You have made me see the Indian and Atlantic oceans. You have made me travel by air and by boat at the age of 60.”
Even after decades in the industry, Dr Jah Kanindo is still creating.
He recently released his 35th project, a reggae single titled Why Women Were Born Beautiful?, available on YouTube.
He is already preparing for his next milestone, Project No. 36, a six-track album slated for release towards the end of 2026.
Reflecting on his journey, Matulana draws inspiration from the late Nelson Mandela’s words: “No easy walk to freedom.”
He credits his faith for sustaining him through industry frustrations.
“I faced a lot of challenges, but by God’s grace I challenged them,” he said.
His gratitude extends beyond collaborators to the thousands of fans who have supported him through changing musical tastes and passing generations.
“My sincere thanks to all my fans globally. You are the ones who have made me what I am today. My trillion thanks to you,” he said.
Beyond music, the veteran has a personal request to share his first-hand memories of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle.
“If I can be given an opportunity to teach history about what I saw and experienced... I will die a happy Cde and musician,” he said.