CommuTalk Reporter
CHIRUMHANZU: Zimbabweans remain indebted to the late Sungura legend, Leonard Dembo for his role in the development of the local music industry, with a tombstone having been unveiled at his rural home in Chaka Chrumanzu recently.
It was actually an entertainment galore at Chaka business center in Chirumanzu on the day people thronged the Dembo homestead to celebrate the life of Barura Express front-man Dembo who died 25 years ago.
Engraved with a picture of the Chitekete hit maker’s face, the tombstone is mounted with a replica of a guitar at the top to signify the trademark of the legendary artist.
The late Dembo’s sons Morgan and Tendai kept guests on their feet as they churned out hit after hit confirming that the late Sungura king’s legacy lives on.
Dembo’s widow, Eunice took some time to highlight how it was difficult to raise the kids after the death of her husband.
“This homestead looked like an abandoned structure before. I told myself that I had to raise the kids first as they were left while they were very young. I knew that once they grow, they will help us spruce up the place.
“It was hard but now as you can see, they have grown and the signs are there for all to see. I want to thank you all for making the house of my late husband a dignified place to rest,” Eunice said.
The government says Dembo’s contribution to the development of the local music industry is unquestionable.
“I want to assure you that had the late Leonard Dembo died in the era of second Republic, this function should have been held at the national heroes acre. Who can forget the great jam Chitekete. His was an immense contribution to the rise of local music.
“In 1996, Chitekete was used at the world beauty pageant putting the country on the globe as a music powerhouse. He worked to help us recover in many ways. Music soothes the soul and can heal psychologically,” said Midlands Provincial Arts, Promotions and Development Administrator, Reward Shockson.
Leonard Musowenyoka Dembo is remembered for hit songs like Chitekete, Tinokumbira Kurarama and Mazano, among others.
