Phuravhathu Neani, better known as Muzayoni in the entertainment industry, has been doing poetry for the love of it. The 32-year-old popular poet from Tshiendeulu in the Nzhelele area has now decided to take his craft to the next level by releasing his collection of poems on an album.
The debut album, titled Venda Langa, was released on Saturday, 29 March. It was recorded at Gera Beats Music Production. Among the standout poems in the album are Venda Langa, Kondelela, and Khundavhalayi.
When asked how he became a poet, Muzayoni was quick to point out that boredom had led him to where he is today. "During my matric year, I did not apply to any institution, which led me to take a gap year in 2012. Boredom crept in, and I revisited my old pastime of hunting. While in the bushes, I would get tired and sit under a tree to rest with nothing to do. That's when the idea of writing came to me, and I penned my first poem, titled Phuravhathu," he explained.
One poem led to another, and Muzayoni began compiling a collection of his poem-like thoughts. These were never published or exposed to a wider audience. "It has always been my wish to have my work published or released on an album. I am happy that my long-cherished dream has now finally been realised. I have been in the game for a long time, and I deserve this opportunity," he said.
He added that Phalaphala FM presenter Humbulani Nengovhela had encouraged him greatly to record the project as a way of preserving Vhavenda culture.
Muzayoni is no ordinary poet. He is also an established businessman, whose company, Jane and Johannes Trading Enterprise and Construction, is making inroads into construction, juice manufacturing, and dishwashing chemicals manufacturing.