Soma celebrates 53rd birthday
IT was a double celebration for veteran sungura artiste Somandla “Soma” Ndebele, who recently turned 53 and clocked 36 years in the music industry.
Soma’s musical journey began in 1987. He has so far recorded 26 albums and 15 singles.
In his nearly four-decade career, he has worked with a number of musicians, among them the late Tongai “Dhewa” Moyo, who was a close friend.
The Denda Brothers frontman was in a jovial mood as he celebrated his birthday.
“Today, I am the happiest man on earth. On numerous occasions, I felt sick and was involved in a number of accidents. God protected me and for that, I am truly grateful,” said Soma, who is also affectionately known as Mafia.
Soma also spoke about the relationship he had with Dhewa.
“If money could buy life, I would have sourced some to bring Tongai Moyo back. I wish he was alive today so that I could wine and dine with him. I really miss him,” said the singer, who was born and bred in Zhombe.
The two sungura singers worked together for some time and collaborated on two albums, one of which carried the monster hit “Masimba aMwari”.
The projects further cemented the duo’s friendship, prompting many to assume the two bands — Utakataka Express (Dhewa’s group) and Denda Brothers — were headed for a merger.
Since Moyo’s death, Soma is finding solace — and in some instances support — from sungura icon Alick Macheso.
“Macheso has been a pillar of strength. He gives me advice and sometimes invites me to perform at some of his shows. He was among the first group of people to send me presents and birthday wishes,” added Soma.
The musician said he was supposed to celebrate his birthday with a new album but failed to do so due to “logistical challenges”.
“I wish to apologise to my fans. I was supposed to release a new album this year but I failed. I will definitely release a new album next year.”
The “Rovambira” singer is dedicating his next album to his legion of fans for their unwavering support.
“My fans have stood by me for 36 years and this is a very long period. Giving them new music is a better way of thanking them,” he said.
Pliers Matesu Puraene, who is now Soma’s manager, said they had set in motion celebrations for the veteran singer.
“On Saturday (yesterday), he will be celebrating with fellow musicians and fans at Club Joy Centre in Highfield. After that, we will use several shows we have lined up across the county to celebrate with fans in different areas. We thank God for the gift of life and wish him (Soma) more years,” said Puraene.
“I recently joined Denda Brothers and hope to use my experience in the music industry to improve the group’s fortunes.”
During the festive season, the Denda Brothers will perform in Chipinge, Macheke and Harare.
On December 23 and 24, the band will perform in Chipinge and on Christmas Day, it will be performing live in Macheke.
On December 29, Soma will hold a joint show with Macheso in Dzivaresekwa.