Thomas Mapfumo | |
|---|---|
 Thomas Mapfumo (2011) | |
| Background information | |
| Also known as | Mukanya, The Lion of Zimbabwe |
| Born | July 2, 1945 |
| Origin | Mazowe, Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) |
| Genres | Chimurenga music |
| Occupation | Singer-songwriter |
| Instrument(s) | Vocals, Lead guitar |
| Years active | 1961–present |
| Website | http://www.thomas-mapfumo.com/ |
Thomas Tafirenyika Mapfumo (born July 3, 1945)[1] is a Zimbabwean musician. He is nicknamed "The Lion of Zimbabwe" and "Mukanya" (the praise name of his clan in the Shona language) for his immense popularity and for the political influence he wields through his music, including his sharp criticism of the government of former Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe. He both created and popularized Chimurenga music, and is known for his distinctive voice and slow-moving style.
Mapfumo was imprisoned without charges under the white-dominated regime of Rhodesia, and he was hounded by the Mugabe government of Zimbabwe that succeeded it. He lived in exile in the United States for two decades,[2] and in April 2018, returned to Zimbabwe for the first time since 2005 to perform a concert.[3][4]
- ^ "Thomas Mapfumo: Biography". World Music Central. World Music. Archived from the original on 17 March 2017. Retrieved 5 March 2015.
- ^ "Hauntingly, quintessentially chimurenga". Mail and Guardian. 30 September 2011. Retrieved 1 October 2011.
- ^ "Thomas Mapfumo eyes Zimbabwe return — Nehanda Radio". Archived from the original on 18 March 2013. Retrieved 10 May 2013.
- ^ "Thomas Mapfumo, 'Lion Of Zimbabwe,' Returns From Exile With Triumphant Homecoming". NPR. 7 May 2018. Retrieved 7 May 2018.