Nelton Dama Muimbi has been in the music industry for some time but has always preferred to work behind the scenes, supporting other musicians. Among the established groups he has produced are Tshivenda traditional music group Tshinombeloni Family and gospel music exponent the late Job Thanyani.
This week, however, the multi-instrumentalist made a dramatic return to the studio and released a sizzling new single titled Hovhila Howa. It is his first major project under STD Boss Music, a production company he recently joined. The single, which he composed and produced himself, was recorded at Dama Music Productions in Tshifulanani, outside Thohoyandou.
"I have created dozens of songs on my own and helped many others realise their dreams, but I regard Hovhila Howa as a masterpiece and a new beginning for me. This is a beautifully crafted piece that is already making waves in digital music stores. The song is about the consumption of liquor, especially homebrew. Traditionally, homebrew is not meant to be consumed alone at home but shared among people. I am encouraging responsible enjoyment and urging people not to fight when drinking together," he said.
According to Dama, his earlier releases did not receive the promotion and exposure they deserved, but that is now a thing of the past. "This is a new beginning for me. I am now unleashing my full potential, and this is where my true musical calling will be realised. Just watch this space—the best is yet to come," he said.
Dama started his music career many years ago, playing with major bands in Gauteng and Limpopo. He was one of the main artists in the popular Takalani Band, founded by the late Tshivenda music legend and guitarist Eric Mukhesa, the late MD Shirinda, and the late music icon Ray Phiri. A musical genius, he plays almost all instruments and covers various music genres.
During his career, he also founded the popular band Shayandima Disco Stars, which shared a stage with renowned music star Richard Jon Smith at Thohoyandou Stadium in 1979.