Harare – The Sounds of Motherland band, led by renowned Zimbabwean guitarist and lyricist Progress Chipfumo, find themselves in a precarious position as their leader remains in the United Kingdom, months after departing for what was intended to be a short festive season vacation. Chipfumo’s prolonged absence has left the band, who rely solely on him for their livelihoods, in a state of uncertainty.
The “Mangerengere” hitmaker left Harare during the festive season last year, but has yet to return, leaving his band members in a difficult situation.
To further complicate matters, the band was unable to fulfil a series of booked performances during the lucrative festive season period, a crucial time for musicians in Zimbabwe who depend on live shows for their income.
A senior member of the Sounds of Motherland Band, speaking on condition of anonymity, expressed the band’s loyalty and concern: “We don’t know when he will come back, but we are aware that he is in the United Kingdom. We have been loyal to him over the years and cannot betray him by joining other groups. We understand he is unwell and undergoing a leg operation, but things are not looking good for us back home.”
The band member emphasised the importance of live performances for their survival: “We remain hopeful that he will be back home once he recovers so that we can resume live shows. In Zimbabwe, we rely on the proceeds from live shows as band members.”
Chipfumo’s extended stay in the UK is reportedly due to ill health, specifically a persistent knee problem that requires medical attention. However, the musician himself has expressed suspicions that his condition may be the result of witchcraft.
Chipfumo expressed disbelief over the severity of his condition, stating, “I suspect I was bewitched because I don’t understand how this problem arose.”
The talented lead guitarist and vocalist is still grappling with the implications of his injury, having collapsed on stage three times while performing in Zimbabwe. “I was wearing a knee guard, yet the pain persisted, impacting my performances. For much of last year, I performed despite the pain, refusing to let it stifle my creativity.”
Despite the challenges he faces, Chipfumo remains committed to his fans and has reassured them of his plans to return to Zimbabwe as soon as his health permits.
“Home is always best, but I currently have no choice but to undergo treatment for my knee,” Chipfumo stated. “I often find myself questioning the cause of this injury, which continues to trouble me even after surgery. I hope to recover fully so I can return home and resume live shows.”
Chipfumo reassured his fans of his plans to return, saying, “If all goes according to plan, I expect to be back home in the first week of August. I know my fans have missed me tremendously, but I ask for their patience as I focus on my recovery.”
With unwavering passion for his craft, Chipfumo looks forward to reuniting with his audience and sharing new music, confident that his journey toward healing will soon lead him back to the stage.
“I can only promise fans good music once I return home for a series of shows. Music is my life; I can’t afford to ditch my fans for good. Performing before my kith and kin on home turf is always encouraging. I believe everything happens for a reason, and I still have faith in God that I will be healed,” he stressed.
