MaNgwenya ft Andy Muridzo – Tifambe Munzira

The long-awaited collaboration between MaNgwenya and Andy Muridzo is out. ‘Tifambe Munzira’ is a soothing love ballade whose strength is its simplicity. It is a work of genius with clean and subtle qualities that give it the potential to become a staple at weddings.

MaNgwenya is one of the pioneers of Zimbabwean urban grooves, a now moribund music genre. She, like wine, has matured and reinvented herself outstandingly. ‘Tifambe Munzira’ is evidence of her ingenuity of fusing traditional Zimbabwean music, sungura and Afro-pop, which gives the song a wide appeal. The composition is in the chemtengure mode, providing the listener with an air of familiarity. There is also something about the guitar that makes the song sink even deeper with every replay.

There is no doubt that Muridzo, just like MaNgwenya, is musically gifted, his biggest letdown before this gem being contrived opulence, which led him to mumble some of his words. However, on this song it is difficult not to notice that collaborating with MaNgwenya might have helped Muridzo improve his articulation of all syllables. The duo effortlessly sounds modern and comfortable with singing in Shona.

Tifambe Munzira also finds its relevancy in the deeper meaning of the hook, which is metaphoric. Zimbabwe is facing challenges on all fronts with most people leading a hand-to-mouth existence. Many have lost hope, even in the prophets who at one time summoned cash to reign. At such times of hopelessness, one needs a lover who cares enough to help carry the burden. This song manages to capture the power of love; it gives hope, energy, life and radiance.

Of course, the hook could also mean something else: ‘Ndibereke tipinde munzira’, or simply ‘Let’s make love’. That is the beauty of music; it’s the soundtrack to life in all its facets.