UNITED Kingdom-based Zimbabwean songstress Busi Mhlanga has bounced back with a new track titled ‘Gqi Gqi Gqi.’
The single, which has an Amapiano groove, was co-produced by upcoming Bulawayo DJ and producer Ntuthuko ‘Deejay Ntu2kay’ Ndlovu and a United Kingdom-based British/Nigerian producer called Growzie.
Busi, popularly known as the Queen of AbeNguni, said the just-released was part of her efforts to teach isiNdebele language and syllables to the younger generation.
““The song features many isiNdebele syllables which are critical components of the language. As a cultural ambassador it is my duty to carry on the legacy to the young ones. I feel duty-bound to always promote African culture and heritage through my music and dressing despite the fact that I am based in the United Kingdom,” said the Bulawayo-born songstress.
Busi used the trending amapiano beat in order to make the song palatable to youngsters.
“Amapiano is the beat of the moment that young people are hooked on. As such it made a lot of sense to use the amapiano beat because I am targeting youngsters,” she said.
‘Gqi Gqi Gqi’ is a sequel to the amapiano-inspired single titled ‘Graceland’ which was inspired by Grammy Award-winning American singer Paul Simon’s 1986 hit.
‘Graceland,’ produced by a British Ghanaian called Frank Nero, featured United Kingdom-based Zimbabwean drummer Jesumin Moyo with the South Africa-born pair of Prudence Jezile and Sisa Mtwana providing the backing vocals.
The Queen of Abenguni ventured into the arts in 1992 as the lead vocalist for Bulawayo’s first Female Troop, Umhlathuzi, which was under the mentorship of the internationally acclaimed imbube outfit Black Umfolosi. In 1995 she began a five-year stint as the lead vocalist of Albert Nyathi’s ensemble.
“I learnt a lot from Nyathi and got a lot of opportunities and recognition during my time in his group. I left in 2000 to pursue my solo career in Denmark. I then relocated to the United Kingdom where I have been based for about two decades.
“I have performed at various festivals in Europe and Africa and have got opportunities to share the stage with various well known artists including the late Hugh Masekela, the late Oliver Mtukudzi, Zahara, Femi Kuti, 2face Idibia and Winky D,” said Busi.
