Macheso Has A Unique Problem, Find Out What It Is

Sungura musician Alick Macheso is reportedly facing a dilemma on selecting instrumentalists for his 12th album currently under recording.

Macheso recently pardoned veteran rhythmist Zakaria Zacharia or simply Zaka Zaka to join an already star-studded Orchestra Mberikwazvo.

The development means Zaka Zaka joins Tafi Nyamunda, Francis Poto and Mike Maikoro on main and sub rhythms.

On lead guitar, Noel Nyazanda faces competition from Devine Muzenda, the versatile Maikoro and Macheso himself, who had played lead on a number of songs before – including Murume, vane Zvavanoda, Chaungada Chose and Madzitete.

Givemore Chokumanyara and Paul Mpofu Jnr battle to be the main man on drums.

The man himself – Macheso – enjoys monopoly on bass guitar though Nyazanda is sometimes given the nod.

While this is good for live shows, it is said to have created problems for Macheso who is struggling to pick combinations for recording, according to sources at Alema Studios.

“Of course, it’s good to have more instrumentalists but it’s creating a little bit of headache for Macheso. The combination of Zaka Zaka and Maikoro is being favoured on rhythm but there is also Tafi and Sekuru Poto.

“This means he (Macheso) will be forced to drop some of the melodies to accommodate others or will have a situation whereby three of four different people play rhythm on one song.

“This will also apply to the lead guitar because Maikoro also comes with his versatility,” said a source at Alema Studios.

Macheso’s publicist Tich Makahamadze did not deny that his boss is having a headache but said it is actually to their advantage.

Makahamadze said while it will be difficult to pick combinations and individuals to play on selective songs, this will also help them come up with the best melodies.

A video of Macheso, Zaka Zaka, Maikoro and Paul Mpofu was recently leaked while rehearsing in studio.

“Yes, of course, we are overwhelmed but I think it’s good for the band and the fans as well. Zaka Zaka is back which means we have four people on rhythm and three on lead since Maikoro has some good melodies that can’t be overlooked that side as well.

“We will pick combinations, we will manage it and I know it will actually good for the fans,” said Makahamadze.

Makahamadze said they will give everyone a chance to play and bring a different feel to the fans.

Macheso previously did this with the song Gungwa on Tsoka Dzerwendo played by five guitarists.

“The good thing after all is that everyone will get a chance to play. I don’t think this will be something difficult because we have done it before.

“We had songs where four or more people played on one song,” said Mahakamadze. Macheso’s album, all things being equal, is expected to be out before year end. Nhau/Indaba