Not easy being veteran’s son
MOST sons and daughters of music legends often find the going tough in the cut-throat music industry as they are always compared to their parents. Agga Nyabinde, son of veteran Afro-Jazz crooner Bob Nyabinde of “Chabuda Hapana” fame, is no exception. He finds himself in the same predicament. The young lad recently released a new single, “Daira”, one of his many projects as he battles for recognition. Our reporter BRIGHTON ZHAWI last week caught up with the budding singer for an insight into his life.
Q: Sons and daughters of music legends usually face challenges when they join their parents’ trade, how is it for you?
A: Well, it comes with a lot of pressure. Fans expect a lot because they know you have guidance and often compare you to the star.
Q: Besides your father, who else is a musician in your family?
A: My older brother, Albert Nyabinde. He recently released two singles titled “Pane Nzvimbo” and “Mwari Mubatsiri”. He also plays hymns with his saxophone.
Q: How far have you gone with plans to establish a culture centre that focuses on manufacturing instruments?
A: I have taken steps in the right direction. But for now, I am focusing on repairs because my market is performing artistes, and most of them cannot do shows at present because of Covid-19 regulations. As a result, they have scaled down on buying instruments.
Q: What is the inspiration behind your new single “Daira”?
A: It is a song meant to encourage people to become all-weather friends. People should not only look for friends when they need help, but also in good times. It should be the same case with relatives.
Q: Anything special we can look forward to this year?
A: You should expect more. My management team comprising of Green Manatsa and Clever Magorimbo has scheduled a number of recordings for me. Some of the songs are almost ready. New videos will be coming.
Q: I understand you are a qualified marketer. At what point did you decide to become a musician?
A: I have loved music since I was a toddler, but I started taking it more seriously in 2007. I started exploring other genres outside my father’s AfroJazz. I then joined a Kwekwe-based outfit fronted by Bantuman. I never looked back from then. However, most of my corporate clients are starting to realise now that I am a musician because my brand is still growing.
Q: What impact did your father’s (Bob Nyabinde) 2002 hit “Chabuda Hapana” have in your life and music career?
A: It was a huge moment of excitement and great relief. My dad had been playing music from the late 80s, but his 2002 debut album became his breakthrough. This gave us hope that you can earn some respect out of art.
Q: Tell us about your family’s link with the late Dr Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi?
A: Dr Tuku was like a father to me. I have so much respect for the Mtukudzi family. My first bike was a gift from the late Sam (Mtukudzi). I respect him (Dr Tuku) so much. He influenced generations and his impact will still be felt for years to come. My music has some influence of the late superstar.
Q: The Covid-19 pandemic has hit the creative sector hard.
Agga Nyabinde
A: Indeed, but it has taught me that we now live in a global village. We should not be limited by walls or borders. At the moment, I can reach out to fans all over the world through various social media platforms.
It is my dream to become an internationally established brand and my Christian values make me believe I will get there. My music is now available on international platforms, so, with proper marketing, all will fall in place.
Q: How do you balance being a public figure and a family man?
A: I have a young family and my wife Vanessa, is supportive of my career. She is a graduate media expert, so when it comes to publicity, she handles herself well.
We have a beautiful daughter, Chikomborero, who is turning one in August. We share the same birth month.