Watyoka launches second album

Standard Style
Fast-rising jazz artist Tina Watyoka launched her second album Ndoita Sei at Book Café on Thursday.

Fast-rising jazz artist Tina Watyoka launched her second album Ndoita Sei at Book Café on Thursday.

BY MASIMBA NGONDONGA

Recorded at Monolio studios, the six-track album contains tracks like Regai Ndiende, a song penned by Afro jazz crooner Alexio Kawara, Amai, Ndendende, Usazvipe Pressure, Shivers and the title track Ndoita Sei.

The title track is a rap song that talks of a hopeless and abandoned woman who has been stretched to the limits by hardships.

The fusion of some Portuguese pasada rhythms, Afro pop, hip hop and some percussive jazz on the album, got jazz fanatics to their feet, especially on the song Ndendende, a gospel song that combines traditional drums and shakers.

Speaking at the launch, the gifted musician, who is studying for an Honours Degree in Music & Musicology at Midlands State University, said her album was an improvement from her first offering in 2010, titled Introducing Tina.

“Considering the exposure that I have been getting ever since I began my music career, I can personally say there is maturity in this album,” she said.

Watyoka, a former Busi Ncube and Taku Mafika’s backing vocalist, expressed optimism on the success of her new project which she took time to release.

She said her wish was to get the same support that she received on her debut album. Speaking at the launch, guest of honour, Zimbabwe College of music director Rachel Chigwanda urged Tina and all upcoming artists to remain focused in order to reach their desired destiny.

“Music needs perseverance and determination in order to reach great destinies and it only takes those that are humble like Tina to achieve their goals,” she said.

National arts councils of Zimbabwe deputy director Nicholas Moyo who was also present at the launch said he was amazed by the originality in Watyoka’s music.

“There is maturity in Tina’s music, considering lyrics, the blending of instruments and the arrangement of songs which is all amazing,” he said in a sideline interview.

He urged the public to strategically support rising artists through buying their music and refrain from pirated works.

“I am challenging the consuming public to give these talented artists a chance through buying their original music and radio stations should also give them air play so that they will be known,” he said.

Meanwhile guest musician Alexio Kawara who could not perform due to his leg injury result of an accident in December 2013 said he decided to work with Watyoka on realising her potential.

“I penned the song for Tina, having seen the potential  and how humble she is,” he said.

Related Topics