A musician of a Leonard Zhakata mold, the 20t… Read Full Bio ↴Born: 1961. Died: 1997
A musician of a Leonard Zhakata mold, the 20th century's final decade saw Leonard Dembo emerge as the latest in a line of domestic superstars. Some consider his music to be classic Zimbabwean rhumba, while other feel its sungura. One thing is for certain; no matter how it is classified, it is good! Despite starting his musical career in 1985, Leonard Dembo didn't hit full-stride until the 1990s. The former cattle herder became insanely popular with his 1992 hit Chitekete, in which his lyrics drew upon traditional Shona sayings. According to Afropop, the track was so popular (it sold more than 100 000 copies) that it became a standard wedding song. Dembo and his band, Barura Express, stuck to their guitar band-sound, pumping out both danceable and singable hits. Sadly, tragedy struck as the band hit full stride. Dembo died before his music had the opportunity to truly reach international audiences.
Despite the death of their talismanic leader, Barura Express has continued touring and recording without Dembo.
Chitekete
Leonard Dembo Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
invented by Allasoft on behalf of Lloyd Hofori
Email: lloydhofori@yahoo.com
babatai baba...
chibababa aba a a a ababa
hauite hauite weti mumagumbeze
The song "Chitekete" by Leonard Dembo is a popular Zimbabwean tune that is known for its catchy beat and lyrics. The song is about a type of dance that originates from Gokwe North, a region in Zimbabwe. The dance is called Chitekete and is characterized by fast and repetitive footwork. In the song, Dembo encourages people to join in on the dance and enjoy themselves.
The lyrics describe the dance moves in detail, and the chorus repeats the phrase "babatai baba," which can be interpreted as an invitation to dance. The verse "hauite hauite weti mumagumbeze" is a call for the dancers to keep moving their feet quickly and not stop until they feel the rhythm. The second verse mentions the name Allasoft, who is credited with inventing the dance on behalf of Lloyd Hofori, whose email address is also listed in the lyrics.
Overall, the song is a celebration of Zimbabwean culture and the joy of dancing. It has become a staple at parties and events throughout the country and is often played at weddings and other celebrations.
Line by Line Meaning
chitekete kuGokwe North kumasoro
Chitekete dance originated from Gokwe North in the Soro area.
babatai baba...
Let's dance...
chibababa aba a a a ababa
The sound of the guitar
hauite hauite weti mumagumbeze
Dance slowly, moving your waist
Contributed by Natalie W. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Sallie Waha Manguvhewa
can some pls translate this song to english