|
Mr Chimbetu's death was preceded by that of his father, who passed away a little more than two weeks before his son. While the performer had reportedly complained of chest pains, headaches and dizzy spells, some say he was also severely affected by the death of his parent. Popularly known as “Chopper”, fans and fellow musicians bade the performer farewell at Gwanzura Stadium on August 16. Members of the public were also given the opportunity to say goodbye by viewing his body, laid out in an open casket. Oliver Mtukudzi described the death of “Chopper” as a shock and that he could not believe that the musician had passed away. “He was a star who had his own style and lyrics which always had a meaning,” said Tuku. The added, Chimbetu’s lyrics came from the heart and that he would be greatly missed by everyone. Music followers are likely to remember "Chopper" by; particularly the unique rhumba sound that made him famous. Called Dendera, it was a fusion of East African "Kanindo" and Congolese rhumba that launched the late Chimbetu's professional career. The start of Simon Chimbetu's success also coincided with his decision to team-up with his brothers Naison, Brian and Allen. Together, they formed the group "The Marxist Brothers". Although successful, Simon began pursuing a solo career when his one sibling Naison left the band in the mid 90’s. Generally, the lyrics of most of "Chopper's" music focussed on social issues, like political independence. One of his most popular songs titled "Pane Asipo" deals with the subject of war. In the song, Chimbetu urges listeners not to forget those that died while fighting for the independence of their homeland. The track also calls on the ancestors of departed soldiers to welcome the men in their midst. The muscian also explored other issues affecting Zimbabweans' lives, including love. He tackles the complex emotion in a beautiful, nostalgic track titled "Mudzimai Wangu". In the song the composer serenades his loved one. He tells her that she is "his one and only", and says he will make her his wife. Once a couple, the composer and his spouse commit to taking care of one another's relatives. Another Chimbetu classic titled “Ndaremerwa” (meaning "One Week"). The song tells of the many hardships facing ordinary Zimbabweans. In this up-beat song the composer laments the difficulty of trying to survive, as he puts it, "from Monday to Sunday" in Zimbabwe. He pleads, wondering who he'll manage to feed his children if he works far from his home. But the late Chimbetu will also be remembered for informal choreography including his signature movement; swaying his head from left to right. This has been copied by many club- and pub crawlers, who've endured aching necks while jiving to his song "Dzandipedza Mafuta". Other popular songs by the artist include Mwana Wedangwe, Chautah, One Way, Kunjere-kunjere and Newspaper. At the height of his popularity, the artist spent four years in jail for car theft. Mr Chimbetu managed to temporarily resurrect his career thereafter, by releasing albums like "Lullaby" and the African Panorama Series. But it slowed after he began performing at political rallies organized by the ruling party. Some fans boycotted shows, followed by plummeting record sales. Mr Chimbetu openly supported the government's land reform policy, of which he was a beneficiary. The performer also made headlines when he invaded a farm, despite already owning properties in Chegutu, Norton and Shamva. But the details of his personal history cannot erase Mr Chimbetu's contribution to the country. He has left an indelible mark on the Zimbabwean music scene. At the time of his death, Mr Chimbetu had released an album titled “10 million Pounds Reward.” Mr Chimbetu is survived by his wife Angela and six children. |
|
|
