Andy Brown passed away this month, so it’s only fitting that this weekend song is dedicated to him. ‘Mapurisa’ is his most famous single – always guaranteed to get Zimbabweans on the dancefloor.
Brown was nicknamed ‘Muzukuru’ by his fans, showing how he was seen as a member of the Zimbabwean family. Formerly a member of the band Ilanga, his music is known for blending Zimbabwean traditional beats with jazz and rock, while singing in Shona. His fiery temper and views on the land redistribution programme caused controversy off-stage, but his music speaks for itself. The guitarist and singer worked with many young musicians in the country and I look forward to seeing the bittersweet fruit of his mentorship in years to come.
Father of 10 and previously married to singer Chiwoniso Maraire, his contribution to Zimbabwean arts will be missed.
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