Thirty Local Musicians Unite to Record Special Wedding Song for Jah Prayzah
In a heartwarming display of industry solidarity, veteran football commentator Charles “CNN” Mabika has successfully brought together about 30 local musicians to record a special wedding tribute song for superstar Jah Prayzah and his wife, Rufaro.
The song, aptly titled “Makorokoto” (Congratulations), brings together musicians from entirely different genres and generations. Spearheaded by Mabika and UK-based Chandafira Nyeredzani, the project aims to transcend a mere wedding celebration and plant the seeds for a new, united front within the often polarized Zimbabwean music industry.
How The Idea Was Born
Mabika stated that the idea for the tribute came naturally to him after he learned about Jah Prayzah’s upcoming wedding. The two share a longstanding relationship that extends beyond mere acquaintanceship.
Working alongside UK-based colleague Chandafira Nyeredzani, Mabika sought to challenge the narrative that Zimbabwean musicians are too polarized to work together for a common cause.
A Star-Studded Volunteer Effort
The massive studio project was done entirely voluntarily, with musicians generously contributing their time, and in some cases, using their own money to attend multiple recording rehearsals at DanMag Studios.
While a few artists initially declined when they realized there was no immediate financial benefit, Mabika noted that "the interest and excitement was just unbelievable" from those who stayed. To top it off, Mabika even added his trademark football commentary to the track.
Beyond the Wedding
The "Makorokoto" project has sparked something much larger than a single tribute song. It has led to the formation of Zimbabwe United Music Artists (ZIUMA).
"Collaborations are not just about coming together and doing a song. You would be surprised at the skills and contributions that come from getting people from all ages and backgrounds together to share ideas. I hope that we will grow from strength to strength."
— Charles "CNN" Mabika
Sona Verdict: A Milestone for Industry Unity
The “Makorokoto” project orchestrated by Charles “CNN” Mabika is exactly the kind of uplifting initiative the Zimbabwean music industry desperately needs. For years, the sector has been plagued by unnecessary rivalries, genre-based segregation, and a lack of institutional solidarity among artists.
By successfully gathering 30 musicians—ranging from Gospel pioneers like Baba Charamba and Mechanic Manyeruke to Sungura stalwarts like Somandla Ndebele and Dancehall figures like Potato—Mabika has proven that when a unifying cause is presented, the industry can step up beautifully. To do this on a purely voluntary basis speaks volumes about the immense respect Jah Prayzah commands among his peers.
The formalization of this collaboration into Zimbabwe United Music Artists (ZIUMA) is the real victory here. If ZIUMA can maintain this momentum and act as a genuine support structure for artists in times of joy, grief, and commercial negotiation, it could fundamentally change the trajectory of Zimbabwean music. For now, fans eagerly await the music video to witness this historic assembly of legends.
Source: Maria Chiguvari | Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
What Do You Think? Join the Conversation
Have an opinion on this Zimbabwe News story, Breaking News, Politics, Business, Entertainment, Sport, or Community Affairs? Share your thoughts, ask questions or add your perspective below and join the Sona Headlines community.
Latest Stories from Sona Headlines
Match Panels to Inverter
Tips for optimal system performance.
3.5kVA Inverter Load Guide
Explore residential setup capabilities.
Best Solar Panels Zimbabwe
Analysis of performance and durability.
Solar Companies Zimbabwe
Customer service and reliability.
Best Solar Panel Brands
Guide for home and business solutions.
Solar Installers Zimbabwe
Professional and certified installers.
3kVA System Cost Guide
Get pricing information for Zimbabwe.
5kVA System Cost Guide
Budget requirements for systems.
David (Solar Sales)