The name Whitey Dama may not ring a bell for some, but to more discerning music lovers, he is regarded as a father figure and a captain in the music industry. The humble and skilful musician is dubbed the only authentic Tshivenda rhumba player but is often overlooked when it comes to major shows, such as the annual Phalaphala FM Royal Heritage Festival. Despite producing several great hits, he does not even feature in this year's Tshivenda Music Awards (TSHIMA).
The prolific guitarist and multi-instrumentalist has come a long way since the era of Shayandima Disco Stars, a band led by his musician brother and studio owner Nelton Dama. That was back in the late '70s. Whitey has released 13 albums, starting with his debut album Giyani, which was released in 1990.
Despite the setbacks in his music career, Dama continues to make waves in the music arena. Two weeks ago, he and his brother were at their best during a performance at a party held at the Thohoyandou 2010 Centre. At the event, the duo displayed remarkable guitar-playing skills, with Whitey on lead and Nelton on rhythm guitar.
Whitey performed his all-time hits from previous albums as well as a few tracks from his much-anticipated forthcoming album. The highlight of his performance was his new song, Vhana Vha Kho Fhela, which is dedicated to the children who died after eating poisoned or contaminated food.
"I have been in the industry for decades and have seen it all," said Whitey. "I have worked with almost all the big names in music, including Bishop Roxley Masevhe, Murida, the late Tshivenda music icon Eric Mukhese, and the late Xitsonga music doyen Skhandule Mabasa, just to mention a few," he said.
He describes music as an integral part of his life. "It is a well-known fact that there is no longer money in music, but the passion we have keeps us going. As I speak now, I am busy preparing an album that I plan to release before the end of the year. I am also training the youth in playing instruments like guitars, keyboards, and drums. This is what I am doing as a way of giving back to my community," he said.
Asked whether he was planning a collaboration with his brother, Whitey was quick to point out that everything is possible.