Mafaro eZimbabwe

by The KTO Project

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Mafaro eZimbabwe means the Joy of Zimbabwe, and is the title track off the soon to be release album, Mafaro eZimbabwe.

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about

Mafaro eZimbabwe, which translates to "the joy of Zimbabwe," is a song that holds a special place in my heart. It was inspired by the vibrant celebrations in Zimbabwe back in 1994, where we not only enjoyed the enchanting sounds of mbira music but also the lively rhythms of soukous music from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

During those festive times, there was a particular song called "Ndochi" by Papa Jose, a Zimbabwean artist, that captivated us with its rhumba beats. It became our anthem, and we all learned how to move our waists to its infectious melody during Christmas parties.

With this in mind, I knew I wanted to incorporate this genre into my own composition, Mafaro eZimbabwe. This song is a tribute to my second home, expressing the joy of returning to Zimbabwe, being embraced by my family, and being nurtured by my teachers. The lyrics also highlight the transformative power of mbira music when played in its traditional ceremonial context.

Moreover, I wanted Mafaro eZimbabwe to be a danceable and uplifting track. To achieve this, I enlisted the incredible Shona rapping skills of my husband, Salani Wamkanganise. Together, we crafted Shona lyrics that convey the message of unity, love, and celebration.

In essence, Mafaro eZimbabwe is a song that embodies the spirit of joy and pride in Zimbabwean people and music. It is a testament to the power of music to heal, unite, and bring happiness to our lives.

lyrics

VERSE:
Mama, I hear you calling
Red earth under my feet
Circle ‘round, ndoro chena
The spiral is complete

CHORUS:
Mafaro eZimbabwe, titambire!
Mafaro eZimbabwe!

VERSE:
My child, sit by the fire
Feel the warmth and remember
Ancient voices ring in your heart
Bring you back to the center, eh!

CHORUS:
Mafaro eZimbabwe, titambire!
Mafaro eZimbabwe, titambire!
Mafaro eZimbabwe, titambire!
Mafaro eZimbabwe, eh!

BRIDGE:
Pouring over me, compassion shows
Our hearts have been set free.
And then you welcome me, across the ocean, one heart one family!
CHORUS

RAP:
KTO alongside Kanya-style we sing
Mafaro eZimbabwe!
KTO alongside Kanya-style we sing
Mafaro eZimbabwe!
Tichikurunga mangoma nekushawura
Tofamba nemashoko anovaka nekutapira
Zvichibva mukati mediti remoyo wangu
Neka Rhumba zvobva zvayenda mberi
(2X)
Titambirei muZimbabwe Mafaro chete
Tichikurunga mangoma nekushawura
Tofamba nemashoko anovaka nekutapira
(4X)

credits

released October 6, 2023
MAFARO EZIMBABWE CREDITS
Written by Kelly Takunda Orphan
Kelly Takunda Orphan: lead vocals, melodica & percussion
Salani Wamkaganise: Shona lyricist
Zoe Ellis: background vocals
John Kisoya: guitar
Adolph Kayembe: bass
Thierry Kisa Wewa: bass
Bill Ortiz: trumpet
Sage the Drummer: drums, congas & percussion

Recorded at Monolio Studios (Hatfield, Zimbabwe),
Towdah Concepts (Nairobi, Kenya) and
Airship Laboratories (Richmond, California, USA)
Pre-Production and Tracking by Zivanai Masango, ZiviMusic
Produced by Jim Santi Owen & Kelly Takunda Orphan
Mixed by Neil Godbole at Airship Laboratories, Richmond, CA
Mastered by J.Goody at Megasonic Studios, Oakland, CA

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about

The KTO Project Richmond, California

The KTO Project performs original music rooted in tradition. Led by Bay Area native Kelly Takunda Orphan, Kelly shares her unique social, cultural and personal perspective in her songwriting and arranging. The KTO Project debuted their first recording in 2004. Cultural historian Linda Tillery says: "...her vocals are warm and lush and the music will make you want to dance.” ... more