THE Black Umfolosi, an interdenominational group of imbube singers, has lauded the music genre for celebrating diverse cultures and its uniqueness worldwide, emphasising its ability to transcend borders and showcasing its significance in promoting cultural heritage.
Speaking to NewsDay Life & Style, the group’s founding member Sotja Moyo praised imbube, highlighting that they were inspired by the culture of the genre.
“We have always been inspired by the culture of imbube. It is part of our culture. Throughout our performances around the world, we have received remarks and praises on how this genre celebrates culture in all parts of southern Africa,” Moyo said
“It is the music that conveys the message in full because it’s just vocals. I have never worked myself.
"This has always been my job and now as the sole founding member remaining, I see it taking me to another level and it has disciplined me.”
He indicated that he has seen up-and-coming imbube groups germinating in Bulawayo because they have seen that the genre is here to stay.
“Our mandate has always been to revive imbube.We didn’t want it to die, we want to make it something that is recognised on a global scale,”Moyo added.
Formed in 1982, Black Umfolosi has released more than 17 albums.
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It has staged performances on all the continents, making it the second best imbube group in Africa after South Africa’s Black Mambazo.
The group was one of the eight recipients of government awards at the National Heroes Acre during Heroes Day celebrations in Harare last year.
They were honoured by President Emmerson Mnangagwa for their song — Unity.
