HARARE - Takunda Mukundu, 15, the son of celebrated lead guitarist and music producer Clive “Mono” Mukundu has joined 19-year-old Gary Tight’s band as lead guitarist.
Taka, a form three student at Prince Edward High School, joined Gary Tight’s group’s Zion Originated as a replacement for Tatenda Mapaso who is now part of an upcoming Afro-fusion group called Gwenga.
The young guitarist, who can also play drums, percussion, mbira and bass guitar, told the Daily News yesterday that he felt honoured to be teaming up with Gary — the son of Ndinoda Wangu hit-maker Willom Tight.
“I have joined Gary’s band because I believe in what he is doing,” said the artiste.
“Gary will help me as I embark on a professional music career.”
Taka’s optimism is also shared by his father who is convinced that his son is now ready for the big step.
“I am happy that my son has joined Gary’s band because I think this will help him grow as a musician. We did a live interview/jam session at SFM radio on Africa Day and listeners were impressed by his guitar skills. I am confident that he will do well,” said Mono.
Gary, on the other hand, believes working with the young artiste will cement the good artistic relationship that has existed between their fathers for decades.
“He (Taka) plays lead guitar and I felt duty-bound to invite him into my group in honour of the close ties that have existed between my father (Willom) and his father (Mono),” said Gary.
“Since our fathers have worked together for a long time, I felt it important for me and Taka to take these close family ties to another level.
“Taka is like a young brother to me and am sure we will help each other make an impact in the music industry,” said Gary.
The two young artistes’ decision to team up has impressed Willom Tight who recently recently released a 15-track album titled Manifesto that features Malian music superstar Salif Keita and Bongo Maffin’s Harold Rangakane Mathaku who is better known as Speedy.
“I never saw it coming. I have been pleasantly surprised by the maturity and big brains of these two kids,” said Willom.