Zim, SA artistes in unity collabo

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Zimbabwean musician and Midlands State University student Ris Monteez, real name Tatenda “Davie Junior” Muzanenhamo, has collaborated with South African Mayizeh to produce a single titled African Call with a view to promoting lasting peace and unity among Africans.

By style Reporter

Zimbabwean musician and Midlands State University student Ris Monteez, real name Tatenda “Davie Junior” Muzanenhamo, has collaborated with South African Mayizeh to produce a single titled African Call with a view to promoting lasting peace and unity among Africans.

The song, which was released recently, has a unique Afro-fusion beat which brings together the unique Zimbabwean and South African sounds and Ris Monteez said this was a new high for his blossoming career.

“The song is the creation of two young minds and the message behind it is quite significant to our culture as Africans. It advocates peace, love and unity among all people on the continent,” he said.

“We are really grateful for the realisiation of this dream because as young people we have a role to play in advancing a united Africa where we can co-exist regardless of race, tribe or creed.”

The rising musician also thanked South African promoter Mluh for making their dream possible against all odds.

“This vision was made possible by Mluh, a South African promoter who saw our potential. The beat we used is a creation of Desert Records in South Africa where the song was mixed and mastered,” Ris Monteez said.

“The song blends amapiano, house and bass drums and all music lovers can easily relate and vibe to it. We also tried to cater for a wider audience through fusing Zulu, Shona and English to give the song an authentic natural feel.”

Ris Monteez’s South African counterpart Mayizeh also promised fans more productions in the future, highlighting that music has the power to unite people.

“It is our hope that the song will inspire everyone as it carries a message relevant to every African. Africa is one and we hope to unite it through the power of music as has been done by such luminaries like Salif Keita, Miriam Makeba, Kofi Olomide as well as the departed Oliver Mtukudzi and Hugh Masekela,” he said.

Ris Monteez said he was hoping to go all out with his music career even as he pursues his Geography and Environmental Studies degree with Midlands State University.

“I started taking music seriously after my O’ Level. However, I started music writing at an early age though I had not visited the studio. Though I am now at univesity, the passion has not died down,” he said.

“My first song Legendary was released in 2016 and carries a strong message about teenage life in Zimbabwe. I then produced more singles like Tour and Never Let Go.

“In 2019 I was able to do a song with UK-based artiste Carleman and it was well received and aired on BBC Radio and other radio stations there.”

Ris Monteez, who is managed by local public relations and brand management company Esteem Communications, promised more productions and collaborations as he grows his career.

“I am promising fireworks this 2020 and moving into the future. There will be more international and local collaborations coming through,” he said.

“I have already started working on a collaboration with a Nigeria-based artiste and I am grateful to my management company Esteem Communications for the direction my brand is taking.”

The young artiste also called on Zimbabwean youths to stay focused and pursue their dreams even amidst the myriad of social and economic challenges.

“I believe there is hope for all that pursue their God-given talents and passion and I encourage today’s youths to remain focused and pursue their dreams,” he said.

“The world has got space for everyone and all we need to do is to stay real and focused and eventually we will reach our goals. Let’s avoid crime and other vices like drug abuse.”