By Fungayi Munyoro
Talented Mutare-based gospel singer and songwriter Emmanuel Mari has dropped an exciting new single titled Ndione.
Ndione was recorded at Heartland Studios in Harare and was produced by Blessing Masanga.
In an interview, Mari explained the motivation behind the song as having been inspired by singles’ need for divine guidance.
“The song was inspired by how every single person in life regardless of their strength and wisdom, needs God’s guidance.
“Many times we feel we are wise that we can make good choices on our own but we need wisdom from God. As youngsters when we prepare for marriages, we need guidance from God. We need spiritual eyes,” he said.
Mari started his musical journey in 2006 when he joined the school choir at Kushingirira School in Bikita. He continued with his career at MSU in 2012 after joining the university group, Called To Worship.
“I enrolled at MSU for Development Studies degree and joined Called To Worship. I then decided to do my own solo, formed a group called Gospel Flame and I recorded my first song called Nguva Yatokwana.
“After Nguva Yatokwana, I did a six-track album in 2013 titled Ndimi Nzira. I only managed to release the album in 2016 due to financial constraints. From then I started doing some collaborations with the likes of Pastor Haisa, Munyaradzi Munodawafa and I have also featured in Dorcas Moyo’s songs,” he said.
The Chikanga-based singer said his music was greatly inspired by South Africa singer Sipho Makhabane and Zimbabwe’s own musical icon Charles Charamba.
“As I was growing up, I used to listen to Sipho Makhabane and Charles Charamba. I am also inspired by Minister Mahendere and Takesure Zamar Ncube,” said Mari.
Early this year, Mari together with his friend Douglas Dhawe opened a recording studio (Flame Sounds Studios) in Chikanga with the aim of helping upcoming artists.