Langalakhe Mabena
Filabusi-born versatile creative and a member of Imbube ensemble Ontaba Kayikhonjwa, Forward Dube, has decided to establish a solo career specialising in Maskandi Music.
The singer who trades by the name FD Usmile Setshitshi, successfully released two Maskandi tracks titled Kufa Kawudeli and Asivumeni Ingoma on 17 December last year.
The offerings were produced by Iyk D from underground studio in Hilbrow Theatre, South Africa where the Silalatshani-bred singer (under Chief Usiba Silalatshani) is currently based.
He said he was still part of Ontaba Kayikhonjwa despite focusing on his solo career.
“I successfully released a double track CD last year in December which has songs Kufa Kawudeli and Asivumeni Ingoma and they are doing very well in some of Mzansi radio stations, and I am aiming at creating a fan base in my home country in Zimbabwe.
“My fans and people close to me encouraged me to go solo and pursue Maskandi music because they saw it fit that I try my luck on the genre which they said my voice can resonate with it.
“After going solo, I didn’t separate from Ontaba Kayikhonjwa. I am still part of the ensemble and I will continue putting equal efforts on my solo career and also fulfilling the vison of the group,” said FD Usmile Setshitshi.
He said he was in studio recording songs which he believes would be up to standard and feature his Extended Play, which he said might be released in April.
He is set to stage a first solo gig under his name on 4 March at Engadini Lounge in Thembisa Township (South Africa), and he is looking forward to working with local music promoters to help him carve a name in Zimbabwe by staging numerous shows on different parts of the country.
