Staff Writer
Former Zimpraise choir vocalist, Antonette Mabhena has roped in South Africa’s finest musicians on her debut single, Bayede.
Her romance with South African musicians is undeniable on the new project which was produced by pianist Xoli Tabethe whose work with top musicians down south brings in a wealth of experience into the project.
Other musicians on the project include former Joyous Celebration bassist, Bheka Mthethwa, drummer Peter Djamba, lead guitarist, Divine Mitchell and Lebo Morolo on auxiliary keyboards gives the production an international appeal.
Hailing from Bulawayo, which is inclined to the South African sound, Mabhena’s choice of musicians was easy.
According to Mabhena, working with experienced musicians down south helped her produce a unique sound which she believes Zimbabweans will love.
After spending nearly, a decade with Zimpraise and working with other musicians like Janet Manyowa, Tembelami among other others, Mabhena has finally learnt to fly on her own.
Mabhena joins several former Zimpraise musicians who have launched their solo careers, like Ellard Cherayi, Sharon Manyonganise, Mpostori Wency among others.
““It took me a long time to get to a point where I realised that I had something to give. I always felt that I was not confident in my vocals, I knew I was a good backing vocalist, but it never dawned on me that I could be a great artist myself,” Mabhena told Gemnation.
“It has been a crazy experience working with all these artists, but it has helped me grow my sound. I know and understand my range better, because I have working as a backing vocalist for a very long time,” she said in an interview from her base in the UK.
On the track, Bayede written by Joel Chiweda, Mabhena also roped in vocalist, Jonny Vilakazi, Silindile Zikhali and Busi Sibiya as backing vocalist. Mabhena, who also doubles as an artist manager says her upcoming EP will also feature Zaza Mokheti, a gospel powerhouse in South Africa.
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