The Zimbabwean music scene is buzzing with the news of Baba Harare’s dramatic transformation. The once-popular Jiti musician, known for his energetic performances and suggestive lyrics, has seemingly undergone a complete metamorphosis, leaving his fans in a state of bewilderment and sparking heated debates across the nation.
Baba Harare, who once commanded the stage with his signature dreadlocks and wild, seductive dances, has shed his old image, opting for a clean-cut, corporate look. He has also disbanded his band, urging his members to pursue their own musical ventures, and declared his intention to embrace gospel music, Hmetro has reported.
The news of his transformation has sent ripples through the Zimbabwean music scene, with many fans expressing shock and confusion. Some have voiced their approval, hailing the change as a positive step, while others have expressed disappointment, lamenting the loss of the artist they once knew and loved.
“The truth is that Baba Harare was influenced by his lover to dump his genre so that he settles with her,” revealed a source close to the musician. “They married secretly and wedded recently where they strictly invited a few friends and close family members. Everything was kept under wraps and a well-known Harare marriage officer officiated the event. He decided to dump everything and has his locks cut short. He also disbanded his band and told his members to start their projects. There is no turning back for him, he says, he received Jesus as his personal saviour and is now leading a new life with his partner, who is also of a Christian background.”
The source’s revelation has added fuel to the fire of speculation, with many fans questioning the authenticity of Baba Harare’s conversion. Some have accused him of succumbing to pressure from his new wife, while others have expressed concern that his newfound faith is merely a publicity stunt.
In a recent interview with Star FM’s Gospel Greats presenter, Yvonne Tivatye, Baba Harare defended his decision, stating that he is happy with his transformation and will not apologise to those who disapprove.
“This is the best decision I have made so far since I was born. I will not apologise to anyone, secondly, I think Mwari vakatipa free will yekuti kana une zvauri kuda kuziva unokwanisa kutsvaga kuti uzviwane,” he said. “At some point ndanga ndakutsvaga kuti panyika pano timbori vanani. I liked listening to sermons of many people, I interacted with many people including prophets, pastors. At first hapana munhu akauya kwandiri achiti ita so, the reason vanhu vanotryer kudiscrediter Mwari, kuti Mwari akachinja munhu akadai here. Ndiko kuverenga Bible nekuterera masermons evamwe vanhu. Kudhara ndakamboti namate namate and back slided, this time I wanted to see on my own kuti Mwari vari kutii. Handina kutendeuka nekuti ndatambura, ndakatendeuka ndichipisa, and ndo best album rangu, ‘Prove them Wrong.’ I repented when I was in Australia, after I decided kuita zvandakuda.”
Baba Harare’s words have been met with a mixed reception. Some fans have expressed support for his decision, praising him for embracing his faith and seeking a new path. Others, however, remain unconvinced, questioning the sincerity of his conversion and expressing concern about the direction of his musical career.
“He will not last in gospel music. He is just not good at it. Achadzokera hake kwake chaiko, vachiri kubatana kuneso nemukadzi,” commented Stride Chibi, reflecting the skepticism of many.
“Baba Harare vanofana kukwekweredzwa kudzoka kuJiti,” echoed Negomo, echoing the sentiment of those who feel that Baba Harare’s departure from Jiti music is a loss for the Zimbabwean music scene.
“The last man who did (this stuff) chekugereswa rasta nemukadzi was Samson. We all know how it ended,” remarked Brian Matonsi, drawing a parallel between Baba Harare’s situation and the biblical tale of Samson, who lost his strength after being betrayed by Delilah.
“Wasiya zvese anobva akusiya,” lamented Manicaland King, expressing a sense of betrayal and disappointment.
“Saka mu Christian aidanana nemunhu wenyika kut zviite sei. Ada kut tiimbirwe nani jiti,” questioned Defiant Pathfinder, highlighting the hypocrisy perceived by some in Baba Harare’s decision to embrace Christianity while maintaining a relationship with a non-Christian partner.
While some fans have expressed their disapproval, others have offered words of encouragement and support.
“He knows best and who are we to judge him?” remarked Valarie Ndlovu, advocating for acceptance and understanding.
“Thank you for listening to the voice of God and not men. God will surely take you far. Richness in God is far much better than richness of the world. All the best Baba Harare,” wrote Athan Sibbs, expressing hope for Baba Harare’s future.
“Thank You Lord for saving us from those lyrics and videos ainyadzisira ega ega, I am shocked that stuff was allowed on family radio and TV stations,” exclaimed Jim Runda, expressing relief at the removal of what he considered to be inappropriate content.
“Which Jesus did you receive? Vanonzi maslay Queens anokuitisa obvaakusiya akudumper wamuridge usisina chinhu,” questioned Norman Muganhu, expressing concern about the potential for manipulation and betrayal in Baba Harare’s new relationship.
The debate surrounding Baba Harare’s transformation is likely to continue for some time, with fans and critics alike weighing in on the matter. Only time will tell whether his new path will lead to success or whether he will ultimately return to his Jiti roots.
