Music producer, accomplished guitarist, and unpublished author Thuso Makungo (46) from Ha-Luvhimbi, outside Thohoyandou, is determined to make waves on the local music scene. He recently released his latest album, titled "Livhadzi," which consists of seven tracks and is set to be officially launched on July 15.
"Livhadzi" comes almost 24 years after Makungo's first recording. In 1999, he released a reggae single titled "Ndi Zwine Nda Vha Zwone," which was later included on an album in 2002.
The new album, produced by renowned producer Ananias Begwa, showcases catchy tracks that combine pure Tshivenda traditional music with Afro-Pop elements dominated by captivating Tshivenda guitar riffs. The album has been received with great enthusiasm, indicating a significant breakthrough in Makungo's career, setting him on the way to stardom.
"Livhadzi" marks a major departure from the reggae genre that initially launched his music career. Reflecting on this shift in sound, Makungo explained that he had taken his time to contemplate his music career and the industry as a whole. Growing up in a musical environment, with his late mother Takalani Elizabeth Makungo Nemavhola as a guitarist and his elder brother Phillip Mahandana Makungo teaching him various instruments, Makungo felt inspired. After much soul-searching, he realised the importance of preserving Tshivenda traditional music, which he believed was in danger of fading away. This realisation led to the creation of "Livhadzi."
Makungo emphasised that, besides the captivating guitar work, the album is lyrically rich and informative. "Having achieved this, I feel very satisfied. Tshivenda traditional music will not fade away as long as we, as artists, take pride in it. I will work tirelessly to ensure that our fans are exposed to the right material," he said.
Following the album launch, "Livhadzi" will be available on all digital platforms.