Zimbabwean Musician Jimmy "Guitar Man" Buzuzi Dies, Tributes Pour In

Zimbabwean guitarist Jimmy "Guitar Man" Buzuzi

By Percy Nhara

HARARE – Zimbabwe's music industry is mourning the death of acclaimed session guitarist James "Jimmy Guitar Man" Buzuzi, whose extraordinary talent, humility, and decades-long contribution to local and international music earned him admiration across generations of musicians.

Buzuzi, who recently returned to Zimbabwe after spending several years performing and living in the United States, died after battling health complications. His passing has triggered an outpouring of tributes from fellow musicians, producers, and artists who worked alongside him during a career spanning more than three decades.

Affectionately known as "Guitar Man," Buzuzi was widely regarded as one of Zimbabwe's finest session guitarists. His distinctive sound blended jazz, afro-fusion, and Zimbabwean guitar traditions, making him one of the most sought-after instrumentalists in the country.

His career included collaborations with numerous artists and bands, including Bongo Love, Willom Tight, Mateo and Friends, The Other Four Band, and The Vigilance Band. Veteran musician Boniface Mavengeni described Buzuzi as more than a colleague.

"RIP bro. I owe this guy a lot. Nguva yenzara taipanana tumapepa twehupfu kunopa madzimai kuti vabike sadza," Mavengeni wrote, recalling the difficult years they supported each other through personal hardships.

Musician Steve Chamakanda said Zimbabwe had lost one of its most generous and dependable artists.

"We lost a good one. I will miss my dear brother and friend, Jimmy Guitar Man Buzuzi. One of a kind, Jimmy was sweet and giving and an awesome musician. He knew how to pitch in and get done what needed doing," he said. "His music lives on in the ethers, on the airwaves, and on everyone's digital devices."

Veteran bassist and producer Pablo Nakappa reflected on a friendship that stretched nearly 35 years.

"My music journey will be incomplete without mentioning Jimmy. I have known Jimmy for close to 35 years. We have played together in countless bands," Nakappa said.

He recalled touring the United Kingdom with musician Winky D in 2013 before Buzuzi relocated to the United States, where he spent nearly a decade pursuing music.

"He came back last year and had just started doing gigs. Met Jimmy a month ago, and he told me he was not in good health but was recovering. Such a humble guy, ever smiling. Loved his guitar, loved his jazz," Nakappa said.

Singer, songwriter, and producer Eyahra Mathazia paid tribute to Buzuzi's contribution to her acclaimed 2008 album Kibo – The Calling. Mathazia described him as the final addition to the Kibo Orchestra during recording sessions and credited him with elevating the project's authentic Zimbabwean sound.

"He had an intuitive ear and could feel where the music was going. We watched his fingers glide with ease over the strings as he had a smile on his face," she said. "A quiet, soft-spoken man. Gifted yet respectful. A musician most bands wanted to work with." She added: "Zion has indeed gained a maestro."

Buzuzi established his reputation during the late 1990s at the legendary Lashley Rehearsal Studios in Harare, where many of Zimbabwe's top musicians honed their craft. His talent later carried him onto international stages, including performances in the United States, the United Kingdom, and major Zimbabwean festivals such as the Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA). Despite his achievements abroad, friends say he remained deeply connected to Zimbabwean music traditions and was passionate about mentoring younger musicians.

Beyond the accolades and performances, friends remember Buzuzi as a humble family man whose generosity matched his musical brilliance. His death leaves a significant void in Zimbabwe's creative sector, but fellow musicians say his influence will continue to be heard through the countless recordings, performances, and artists he inspired.

As tributes continue to pour in from across the world, one message remains constant: Zimbabwe has lost not only a gifted guitarist but also a beloved friend, mentor, and cultural ambassador. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family.

May his soul rest in peace.

Jimmy Guitar Man Buzuzi