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Mthabisi Tshuma, Showbiz Correspondent
Patati Patata, a collaboration song between Zimbabwean urban grooves maestro Roki, Congolese Soukous singer Koffi Olomide and Tanzanian Afro-pop artiste Rayvanny has ushered people into summer because with its catchy lyrics and rhythm that get one in the mood to party.

The single, that was released on Wednesday accompanied by a well-produced video, has become the talk of town, just like its title Patati Patata (talkative person) suggests as many people had anticipated its release.

After listening to the track that is receiving a lot of airplay on local radio stations, some have said they feel the song will definitely usher them to a partying vibe this summer season.

By yesterday late afternoon, the song was 50 000 views short of reaching one million views on Youtube.

Soon after its release, the song received airplay on regional music channel, Trace Africa where it was featured as an exclusive yesterday.

Roki clinched this rare collaboration that will likely expose him to international audiences courtesy of Passion Java Records.

In an interview, Roki who last month made a strong comeback with his Uchandifunga song whose video made history in the country by being the first to clinch a million views on YouTube in less than 96 hours, said he is overjoyed with the popularity of Patati Patata on YouTube.

He said the song in which President Emmerson Mnangagwa is hailed by Koffi who chanted “ED Mnangagwa number one” is all about celebrating the motherland, Zimbabwe.

“This is a local production that brought together big guns in the music industry, not only in Africa but globally. Patati Patata simply means someone who is talkative and the song is about celebrating our motherland Zimbabwe, a nation blessed with beauty and talent of all kinds.

“Liver Classics from Tanzania mixed and engineered the song alongside hit-maker Oskid while the director Kenny who has worked with the likes of Burna Boy came this side to work with Studio Art Pictures (SAP),” said Roki.

He said the idea to collaborate with regional artistes was aimed at uniting creatives and also serve as a learning curve.

“The powerful delegation which was part of the production was meant for us as African creatives to share ideas and learn from others who’re doing it big in the entertainment scene.

“It was a pleasure to work with everyone on the project and I promise more fireworks,” said Roki.

Asked about naysayers who have been trashing the song, Roki said: “The song’s title, Patati Patata is about talkative people and these are the people we’re talking about. As an artiste, I’m not moved by their comments as those who appreciate our work know this is a hit song,” he said.

The singer’s association with the recently established record label seems to be paying off for him as he has once again hogged the limelight. -@mthabisi_mthire