Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
They came to Harare in 1999 from Democratic Republic of Congoro as boys in search of greener pastures and peace of mind but now they are real men.
Their vision was to pursue Rhumba music away from their war-torn country, the DRC.
Like any other expedition, it took a lot of sacrifice, sweat and savings for them to settle in Zimbabwe.
Twenty-five years later, Zimbabwe remains their second home, which gave them a lifeline in music and entrepreneurship.Not only have they settled well in Zimbabwe but the country has given them a sense of belonging.
This is the true story of the consistent rhumba outfit Diamond Musica led by Pitshou Lumiere.
Pitshou, who is the face of Diamond Musica, told The Herald Arts that it has been 25 years of success and love.
Although some of his band members deserted him for other local rhumba groups, Pitshou is celebrating a quarter of a century in Harare with pride.
“I came to Zimbabwe in 1999 via Tanzania where I was based from 1997.
“Of course, I have been travelling in and outside Zimbabwe but this country has become my second home.
“Of course, we have encountered some challenges in music but we can’t complain because Zimbabwe has given us everything that we need in life,” he said.
The talented choreographer and songwriter said he has special moments to share with fans as he celebrates their 25th anniversary later this month.
“Calling Zimbabwe my second would be an understatement to say the least.
“Zimbabwe is my world and everything to myself because I enjoy everything I do here from music to work and entrepreneurship.
“When I first set arrived in Harare, I was humbled by the hospitality that we enjoyed and the instant impact that we made in music,” he said.
The affable multilingual chanter reckons Zimbabwean hospitality was unmatched in the sub-region.
“When I came here, I had language problems because I only spoke Lingala, French and English. I had to learn Shona and I am glad that I can now sing and write Shona songs pretty well.”
Pitshou, who has collaborated with Suluman Chimbetu and recently Jah Signal on his latest single titled “Motema”, said he was determined to work with more locals.
“I have always wanted to collaborate with Zimbabwean musicians in other genres because there is power in synergies.
“This is the other reason why I looked for Jah Signal and did this song together.
“The song, which can be translated to heart, shows my appreciation of Zimbabwe where we are respected.
“It is also going to be my theme song as we continue celebrating the hospitality of Zimbabwe. As the Congolese community in Zimbabwe, we are happy that we have found a home that we are calling ours,” he said.
Musically, Pitshou’s camp was upbeat to win new fans despite the emergence of other genres.
“Rhumba music might appear to be confined to a certain community but it’s a big genre overseas.
“The likes of Werrason, Koffi Olomide and Ferre Gola are currently touring Europe and filling up big venues. As Diamond Musiaca, we have shown that although we are sometimes sidelined by some local promoters.
“Local promoters appear to be sidelining rhumba groups although they know we are there and can perform better.”
Pitshou, who has been working with award-winning producer Prince “Oskid” Tapfuma, believes his 25th-anniversary celebrations will live up to expectations.
“I always consult widely before I organise an event that attracts well-to-do people.
“In my case, I have noted that many people love our music and we can’t afford to let them down. More music is coming before the end of the year with another single titled ‘Pete Pete’, which means soft has also been released by Selekta Base at Nash Studios.
“I have also worked with a young artiste called Miss Daisy who has shown a lot of potential and determination to go.”
A regular performer at major festivals in South Africa and Tanzania, Pitshou still calls Zimbabwe home despite having other options he has. On new year’s eve, he will hold a get-together party in Harare with other rhumba outfits that came from DRC like Bana Ngwasuma and Bana Des As alongside local acts including Lady Storm, Juntal and BV Labien Musica.As he commemorates his stay in Zimbabwe, Pitshou feels loved by locals.
He has also mastered the art of diversifying in other projects to supplement their earnings. Pitshou’s fairy tale is nothing short of a script of fortune hunters who left their motherland in fear for their lives and found sanctuary in Zimbabwe.
leeroy mupariri
