Innocent Mjintu carries heavy memories of his musical partner, Leonard Dembo. Twenty-nine years after Dembo's death, the pain remains sharp for the veteran guitarist. Dembo passed away at just 36 years old, leaving a profound mark on Zimbabwe's music scene. Mjintu remembers those final moments with heartbreaking clarity. He was present when Dembo took his last breath, surrounded by family members.
The musician nearly abandoned music after losing his dear friend. Grief threatened to consume Mjintu completely after Dembo's passing, but a quiet inner voice encouraged him to continue making music. He reflected on their shared musical journey since joining Barura Express in 1988. Mjintu believed something greater guided him through that difficult time.
After Dembo's death, Mjintu explored different musical paths. He played with Alick Machedo's Orchestra Mberikwazvo and Energy Mutodi's band. Eventually, he founded Zimbabwe African Rhythm Experts, called Zare, in 2005. The group struggled initially but eventually found success. Mjintu committed to releasing two albums annually.
Mjintu remains connected to Dembo's legacy through continued collaboration. He works closely with Dembo's family members, particularly Tendai Dembo. His musical journey reflects deep respect for his former bandmate. Through his performances, he keeps Barura Express's musical spirit alive. Mjintu transformed personal tragedy into an ongoing musical tribute.
Musical memories keep Leonard Dembo's spirit alive for Mjintu. At 53, he stands as the sole surviving member of the original Barura Express. His guitar playing continues to honor their shared musical history. Each performance carries echoes of their past collaboration. Mjintu ensures that Dembo's musical legacy continues to inspire new generations.
The musician nearly abandoned music after losing his dear friend. Grief threatened to consume Mjintu completely after Dembo's passing, but a quiet inner voice encouraged him to continue making music. He reflected on their shared musical journey since joining Barura Express in 1988. Mjintu believed something greater guided him through that difficult time.
After Dembo's death, Mjintu explored different musical paths. He played with Alick Machedo's Orchestra Mberikwazvo and Energy Mutodi's band. Eventually, he founded Zimbabwe African Rhythm Experts, called Zare, in 2005. The group struggled initially but eventually found success. Mjintu committed to releasing two albums annually.
Mjintu remains connected to Dembo's legacy through continued collaboration. He works closely with Dembo's family members, particularly Tendai Dembo. His musical journey reflects deep respect for his former bandmate. Through his performances, he keeps Barura Express's musical spirit alive. Mjintu transformed personal tragedy into an ongoing musical tribute.
Musical memories keep Leonard Dembo's spirit alive for Mjintu. At 53, he stands as the sole surviving member of the original Barura Express. His guitar playing continues to honor their shared musical history. Each performance carries echoes of their past collaboration. Mjintu ensures that Dembo's musical legacy continues to inspire new generations.
