Fodya Yamasunga Kunaka: Tatuh Maluba Conquers Cresta Jameson

By Mpundu Valerie

After a postponed birthday album launch that disappointed some fans, Tatuh Maluba finally delivered the celebration his supporters had been waiting for, turning Cresta Jameson into a showcase of music, memory, and resilience.

For the past two years, it has been culture for the man to release an album on his birthday. This time, circumstances fought the RHINOS and the celebration had to be pushed back. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise.

On Friday evening at Cresta Jameson, the audience bowed down to a polished performance. The band came, saw and conquered. Chava Chimurenga warmed up the crowd, setting the perfect mood for the night. What followed was a trip down memory lane. Tatuh opened with "Hope Dzandarota Kunaka" off his debut album of the same name. Eloquent vocals, crystal sound, and backing vocalists who were on fire.

Soon after, he played "Nyarara Chipembere," popularly known by fans as "Ktaura Havagone," before going religiously back to where it all began with his first-ever track, "Zororo." So nostalgic was "Zororo", Tatuh had to remove his signature hat. The song sank deep, evoking memories of toiling in vain when life is unkind. “Ndakadzidza hangu asi hupenyu hwakandipa musana...” he sang a soul-searching reflection on education, hustle, and painful ends, but with a reminder that there is always hope. That eventually, there is rest when things fall into place.

He then sampled "Hondo Haina Dura", a deep, haunting track on the ravages of war. No victor, only pain, loss, and scars. He closed the emotive set with "Ndiani Achanyara", a song of positivity. "Ramba uchirova, kunoedza chete". Never give up. Fodya yamasunga kunaka indeed. The wait made the launch sweeter, and the Rhinos proved why they are slowly but surely invading every space.

What began as a postponed celebration became an evening of reflection and musical connection. Tatuh Maluba and the RHINOS demonstrated that beyond the anticipation surrounding an album launch, a lasting performance is built on musicianship, storytelling, and the ability to make an audience feel every word.

For the fans who had waited, Friday night was finally their moment.

Tatuh Maluba Cresta Jameson performance