Fans once loved Mark Ngwazi's catchphrase from his hit song "Taurai Madzoka" as he climbed the music charts. People started comparing him to Alick Macheso, the top sungura music star. This debate heated up in 2022 when both artists put out new albums just weeks apart. Macheso launched "Tinosvitswa Nashe" on June 10, with Ngwazi following up with "Nharo neZvinenharo" on June 25.
Both albums earned praise from critics, but Ngwazi really broke through with his release. Macheso had ruled sungura music without much challenge, especially after his main rival, Tongai "Dhewa" Moyo, died in 2011. No artist truly threatened his top spot until Ngwazi came along. Many saw Ngwazi as fresh competition, but others just thought he was another wannabe trying to take the crown.
Both musicians deny any problems between them, though music insiders often hint at an unspoken rivalry. Many viewed Ngwazi's rise as a threat to Macheso's position, starting arguments on social media among sungura lovers. Macheso always stayed humble about these comparisons. His spokesman, Tichaona Makahamadze, said comparisons never change who they are as a band for the people.
Asked how Macheso handles pressure from other artists, Makahamadze explained that they face different challenges at different times and deal with each challenge as it comes along. When things heat up, they maintain their standards and believe in their music and faith. Makahamadze addressed claims that Macheso might be at his weakest point by saying everyone has their views, but their shows still attract full crowds.
He mentioned they have more than sixty songs ready for release, but time everything carefully. Fans currently enjoy "Hunhu hwakashata," and they'll release the next song when needed. Makahamadze called this a new strategy, saying some people resist change and might criticize them. Ngwazi himself downplays any competition, saying he makes music without trying to compete. He thanks his supporters and wants to keep that spirit alive.
Despite these denials, the music scene tells a different story. Macheso remains famous with loyal fans, but Ngwazi's star power has faded somewhat. Critics say Ngwazi has talent but struggles to keep up the energy that first made him famous. Macheso continues to lead sungura music even when some call him past his prime. His stage presence, deep lyrics, and unique bass playing make him stand out from competitors.
Ngwazi deserves credit for his work, but he needs more time before he can match the legendary Baba Sharo. Will he succeed and make his mark in sungura history? Or will he fade away like many others before him? Sungura fans will always find something to debate about their favorite artists. Maybe this rivalry talk distracts from a bigger issue - the possible decline of sungura music itself.
Music producer and critic Clive "Mono" Mukundu believes modern sungura lacks authenticity, with many artists just copying others. He says sungura artists themselves hurt the genre through a lack of variety. Most musicians try to imitate Macheso rather than create something new. Mono remembers when sungura peaked; artists like John Chibadura, Leonard Dembo, and Pengaudzoke all had distinct sounds, including unique Dendera and Zora styles. Today, most artists sound the same.
Creative entrepreneur Plot Mhako disagrees that sungura music is dying but admits it has stalled. Macheso proves his legendary status through his consistency, highlighting the lack of similar successors. Mark Ngwazi and others bring new energy but they struggle to create unique sounds or match Macheso's influence. Artists like DT Bio Mudimba add fresh elements, but the genre needs better support, more innovation, and new talent to stay relevant. Both fans and media must help promote new sungura artists.
Both albums earned praise from critics, but Ngwazi really broke through with his release. Macheso had ruled sungura music without much challenge, especially after his main rival, Tongai "Dhewa" Moyo, died in 2011. No artist truly threatened his top spot until Ngwazi came along. Many saw Ngwazi as fresh competition, but others just thought he was another wannabe trying to take the crown.
Both musicians deny any problems between them, though music insiders often hint at an unspoken rivalry. Many viewed Ngwazi's rise as a threat to Macheso's position, starting arguments on social media among sungura lovers. Macheso always stayed humble about these comparisons. His spokesman, Tichaona Makahamadze, said comparisons never change who they are as a band for the people.
Asked how Macheso handles pressure from other artists, Makahamadze explained that they face different challenges at different times and deal with each challenge as it comes along. When things heat up, they maintain their standards and believe in their music and faith. Makahamadze addressed claims that Macheso might be at his weakest point by saying everyone has their views, but their shows still attract full crowds.
He mentioned they have more than sixty songs ready for release, but time everything carefully. Fans currently enjoy "Hunhu hwakashata," and they'll release the next song when needed. Makahamadze called this a new strategy, saying some people resist change and might criticize them. Ngwazi himself downplays any competition, saying he makes music without trying to compete. He thanks his supporters and wants to keep that spirit alive.
Despite these denials, the music scene tells a different story. Macheso remains famous with loyal fans, but Ngwazi's star power has faded somewhat. Critics say Ngwazi has talent but struggles to keep up the energy that first made him famous. Macheso continues to lead sungura music even when some call him past his prime. His stage presence, deep lyrics, and unique bass playing make him stand out from competitors.
Ngwazi deserves credit for his work, but he needs more time before he can match the legendary Baba Sharo. Will he succeed and make his mark in sungura history? Or will he fade away like many others before him? Sungura fans will always find something to debate about their favorite artists. Maybe this rivalry talk distracts from a bigger issue - the possible decline of sungura music itself.
Music producer and critic Clive "Mono" Mukundu believes modern sungura lacks authenticity, with many artists just copying others. He says sungura artists themselves hurt the genre through a lack of variety. Most musicians try to imitate Macheso rather than create something new. Mono remembers when sungura peaked; artists like John Chibadura, Leonard Dembo, and Pengaudzoke all had distinct sounds, including unique Dendera and Zora styles. Today, most artists sound the same.
Creative entrepreneur Plot Mhako disagrees that sungura music is dying but admits it has stalled. Macheso proves his legendary status through his consistency, highlighting the lack of similar successors. Mark Ngwazi and others bring new energy but they struggle to create unique sounds or match Macheso's influence. Artists like DT Bio Mudimba add fresh elements, but the genre needs better support, more innovation, and new talent to stay relevant. Both fans and media must help promote new sungura artists.
