Lamont Chitepo’s latest single Mafuta, is a collaboration with Sulumani Chimbetu and Tytan that breathes new life into the Simon “Chopper” Chimbetu classic Dzandipedza Mafuta.
It’s Dendera infused with Afrobeats and although it seems like an unusual union, the song somehow works. It’s not only the instrumental that’s reimagined but the lyricism and delivery are revamped. There’s now the added flair of urban music, while certain bits that made Chopper’s classic the hit it was are maintained. Sulu’s voice is the binding agent in this crossover and he maintains enough of the songs original to make it a strong reminder of the classic.
On the production Mr Kamera and Spirit Fingerz work their magic. The song is now a lot more vibrant and it’s easily forgotten that Simon Chimbetu was making a plea for help with his affliction of jealousy on the original song. It’s not only a fusion of sound but Mafuta has a fusion of language, that truly sets it apart.
Dendera and Sungura while still having a home on radio stations like Radio Zimbabwe, were beginning to be seen like outdated genres in terms of their popularity. Yet from the response to the TrapSu (Trap Sungura) sound founded by Tanto Wavie to tracks likes this, it’s being seen that there’s a ready market for reimagined traditional Zimbabwean sounds. The Afrobeats meets Dendera sound might just be another stroke of genius.
Mafuta was released with visuals shot by Lutch Media, Andy Cutta and Lighthouse City Media. The video was co-directed by Lamont Chitepo and Tytan, and it’s a beautiful kaleidoscope of colour. It’s playful, showcases fashion and perfectly encapsulates the energy of the song.
You can checkout the video for Mafuta here
