'I have matured as a musician,' says Reggae singer Madzunya

The name Aluwani Given Madzunya is well known around the Vhembe region. Following the success of his previous two albums, the much-loved reggae singer, who performs mainly in Tshivenda, is currently busy finalising his third album, titled Ni wanga, which will be released at the end of August.

Madzunya hails from Mukula village outside Thohoyandou. Having started his singing career at the local Seventh Day Adventist Church, Madzunya had always dreamt of making his mark in the music industry. “While singing at Sunday school, church members were impressed with my voice and encouraged me to take my singing further. I later joined a local community choir that sang at gatherings, like parties and funerals, and more people started to notice my talent,” he said.

After some time with the community choir, Madzunya teamed up with Christopher Tshikovhela from Ha-Mphego village. The duo started to make reggae music but never thought of recording any of their music. Madzunya then joined Thomas Ramaremisa from his home village of Mukula, and they continued playing music. That was when Ramaremisa suggested that Madzunya record his music, and in 2012, he released his debut reggae album, titled Ndila ndi mbili. In 2016, he released his second album, Duvha na tshifhinga.

Over the years, Madzunya has worked and performed with seasoned local artists such as Shufflers Ragimana, the late Jahman Chiganja, DJ Rollman, Khathu Nemapate, King Don, Burning Fire Boys Love and Ananias Bengwa. “Music is a very complicated industry. It is almost impossible for an artist to succeed if he doesn’t work with other artists too. This has taught me many things in music; their experience was very helpful to me. That is why, even today, I still regard unity as one of the backbones for musical development and success.”

Madzunya said that his upcoming album was completely different from his previous two albums, proving how much he had grown as a musician over the years. “I am now musically matured. With this new album, I have added more good sounds that you don’t hear in my previous music. The first two albums were also programmed, while this latest one is recorded semi-live, as I wanted to ensure that my fans get the real reggae feel and experience,” he said.

Ni wanga consists of upbeat songs such as Lufuno lu a difha, Faranani, Lufuno lwa Murena Yesu, and Miracle Money.

For bookings, music sales and public performances, Madzunya can be reached on 071 591 7322 (voice calls and WhatsApp). He is also available on Facebook (Given Harmonic-sounds).

Entertainment - Date: 12 August 2022

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