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Danisa Masuku
Fast-rising Muungu Africa, a South Africa-based musical outfit comprising Zimbabwean Lynol Siwela and South Africans Sindiswa Shobede and Bongo Beats have had to remix the Lazaro track in order to try and make it appealing in South Africa.

The original version sung in Shona by the three members was released as part of their second album Show Love last year in December. Though it was received well in Zimbabwe, it failed to captivate the SA music lovers.

Confident that the track had the potential to take them places, the group decided to give it another try by remixing it and adding the voices of Niola and Busiswa. Upon completion, the afro/house music group, launched the remix in Johannesburg last month and have since embarked on a tour to promote that track. The launch which was a success saw SA artistes Master KG and Zanda Zakuza of the hit Skeleton Move performing.

Siwela, who is the group’s spokesperson said: “Lazaro did well in countries like Zimbabwe but didn’t do fairly well in South Africa.
This is why we’re now promoting its remix to try and popularise the track here,” Siwela said.

He said he was hopeful that Lazaro would be a hit in South Africa as it is proving to be a favourite of many where they are performing. Its music video that was released last month has so far garnered over 100 000 views on YouTube.

“The song is highly requested and has gained 132 800 views on YouTube. As a result, we’ve made a consideration to promote it across South Africa and we’ll also be bringing it to Zimbabwe where we’ll conduct promotional tours,” he said.

The song mirrors difficulties that some people face in life before they make it. On the track, Siwela and Shobede portray themselves as a couple leading a difficult life.

Reflecting on the SA music industry, Siwela said competition there was stiff.

“We’re glad as we’ve managed to penetrate the South African music industry. Two of our songs, Dali Wami and the remix of Lazaro are promising to become hits here,” Siwela said.

Muungu Africa was formed in 2012 and has two albums.