Forward Kwenda
A brilliant mbira player, Forward Kwenda recorded his first 45’s by age 17. His remarkable fluency and idiosyncratic style mark him as a unique musician. He lives in Harare, Zimbabwe.
See Also:
- mbira tutorial video by Forward Kwenda
- music by Erica Azim
Trance 3
Length: 60:08
1999
CD (267-C) $15.00 plus shipping available
This CD features three traditions of spirit music: Zen Shakuhachi, Mbira Spirit Ceremony, and Sacred Tembang Sumba from West Java. Forward Kwenda’s mbira contribution lasts a satisfying 23 minutes: two songs played in Gandanga tuning and recorded by Erica Azim atop a granite boulder in Zimbabwe.
Tracks:
- 1. Choshi & Shoganken Reibo (performed by Ronnie Nyogetsu Seldin)
- 2. Tadzungaira (We are suffering) (performed by Forward Kwenda)
- 3. Gonamombe Rerume (Brave Hunter) (performed by Forward Kwenda)
- 4. Jemplang Leumpang, Muara Beres, Lokatmala, Tahajud, & Lumengis [Gugum Gumbira et al
Instruments: (in alphabetical order)
mbira, vocals.
Credits: (in alphabetical order)
Forward Kwenda, Ronnie Nyogetsu Seldin.
Songs For the Rainmaker
Length: 90 min:
1997
Tape (236-T) $12.00 plus shipping available
Recorded in Harare in 1997 by Joy Shulman.
Tracks:
- 1. Chipembere
- 2. Marenje
- 3. medley
- • Nhimutimu
- • Mbavarira
- 4. medley
- • Nyama Musango
- • Kanhurura
Instruments: (in alphabetical order)
mbira, vocals.
Credits:
Svikiro
Meditations From An Mbira Master
Length: 70:10
1997
CD (190-C) $15.00 plus shipping not currently in stock
This collection of solo pieces and duets (with Erica Azim) beautifully characterizes Forward Kwenda’s soulful playing and singing styles. Mbira tunings used in this recording are gandanga/mavembe, nemakonde, and nyamaropa.
Tracks:
- 1. Kanhurura (performed by Forward Kwenda)
- 2. Gonamombe rerume
- 3. Zvichapera chete (trad.)
- 4. Chipembere nhimutimu
- 5. Tadzungaira
- 6. Chipembere
- 7. Mukai tiende
- 8. Mandarendare
- 9. Chipindura
- 10. Mahororo
- 11. Chidhangechidhange
Instruments: (in alphabetical order)
mbira, vocals.