Zimbabwe mourns music legend Zex Manatsa

The ‘Tea Hobvu’ hitmaker succumbed to multiple myeloma. Manatsa was diagnosed with the condition in August last year and underwent treatment shortly after.

Manatsa’s death was confirmed on his Facebook page. “With great sadness, we would like to let everyone know that our father, our legend, pastor and Sekuru [grandfather] Zex Manatsa, has succumbed to cancer. May his dear soul rest in peace.”

Local artists and commentators took to social media to convey their condolences following news of the musician’s passing.

“Go well mukoma [brother] Zex Manatsa,” US-based Zimbabwean veteran singer Thomas Mapfumo wrote. “Zimbabwe yarasikirwa zvikuru [has lost in a big way]. Ndarwadzikana [I am in pain].”

Sungura musician Alick Macheso said: “His humility and ability to gel with all and sundry were exemplary and a lesson to all. As we bid him farewell, we thank God for a life well lived and we pray that generations to come continue to tap from his wisdom, expertise and legend. To the Manatsa family and the entire Zimbabwean community, we say nematambudziko [condolences], may the dear Lord comfort us all. Rest well baba.”

Suluman Chimbetu wrote: “It is with great sadness that l have received news of the passing on of Baba Zex Manatsa after a long battle with cancer. What a loss of a great talent and a fine gentleman. We continuously drew inspiration from the impeccable work he put into our local industry.”

Speaking to Music In Africa, Germany-based arts journalist Plot Mhako said: “It is very saddening that we have lost a music legend who impacted Zimbabwe in a major way and was loved by many. Despite his many accomplishments, he remained very accessible and supportive to young musicians. I believe his family will carry on his legacy and his music will impact generations to come. Forever missed.”

Manatsa rose to prominence in the 1970s with the Green Arrows Band, which he formed in Mhangura in 1968. South African saxophonist West Nkosi, who was a consultant for Gallo Records, discovered the band and became their producer in 1977. The resulting album, Chipo Chiroorwa, achieved considerable success, prompting the band to rename itself to the New Green Arrows and relocate to Harare. Their success continued in the 1980s with hits and tours.

Manatsa was known for attracting some 50 000 people to his wedding at Rufaro Stadium in Harare in 1979. He shared the stage with reggae icon Bob Marley when Zimbabwe gained its independence in 1980. Some of his hits include ‘Chipo Chiroorwa’, ‘Bambo Mwakwatila’, ‘Vaparidzi Vawanda’, ‘Mwana Waenda’, ‘Tamirireiko (Dynamos Igowese)’, ‘Chechule Anavala Bottom’, and ‘Chimwamuna Chamimba’.