TENDAI Dembo, son of the late legendary musician Leonard ‘Musorowenyoka ’ Dembo has released an album titled Kupakwashe as he continues in efforts to revive his father’s legacy and carve a niche for himself in the cutthroat industry.
It has been a rough road for the Dembo brothers, Morgan and Tendai who inherited Barura Express and are trying to revive the band, a prolific outfit during the days of the departed maestro.
Efforts at reviving the outfit have almost been destroyed by the errant Morgan, Tendai’s brother who seems to be more interested in boozing than music.
Sungura supremo, Alick Macheso has at one time tried to assist the duo and so has Jah Prayzah.
Their debut album Kutsika Matsimba showed them being progeny of the late great Dembo is not enough; they have to work to earn their stripe.
But it seems the more responsible brother, Tendai is determined to make it with or without his brother who is better at vocals.
Tendai who is better with the lead guitar worked without his brother on the new album Kupakwashe.
According to Tendai, Morgan continues to be difficult and is currently suspended from the band.
“Morgan is on suspension ,we could not wait for him as Barura Express and we can only operate and function where there is complete discipline from all band members,” said Tendai.
Tendai is presently operating as both the frontman and manager of the band.
“For the moment this is the best way to continue with our father’s legacy,” he said.
The latest album, the musician said, is about blessings that God has bestowed on him such as a lovely and loving fiancé and the strength to carry on in music despite the numerous challenges that the band has had to deal with.
“The album is about expressing gratitude to God who provided me with a beautiful fiancée, for enhancing my guitar skills and vocals,” Tendai said.
The seven track album has songs that include, ‘Muzvarakamwe’, ‘Nherera’, ‘Zvichengete’, ‘Jennifer’, ‘Chinun’una Kura’ and ‘Ishe Vanopa’ as the title track.