The Sunday Mail
Tendai Chara
FOR eight solid years, singer and songwriter Takura Shonhai struggled with drug and substance abuse.
Takura, who recently came out of drug rehabilitation, attributed the drug and substance abuse to the pressures that are associated with fame, the music industry in general and broken relationships.
The Zim hip-hop star had seemingly reached the peak of his career and became one of the country’s most sought-after hip-hop stars. Producing hit after hit, Takura would give other rival Zim hip-hop singers, among them Ti Gonzi and the late Cal_Vin, a run for their money.
The release of standout tracks such as “MaObama”, “Wandachuza”, “Haarore” and “Zino Irema” catapulted him to national stardom. Within a relatively short period, Takura solidified his top position and released the wildly popular Extended Play “Stripped”.
Tracks like “Mungandidii?”, “Ndoda Kutaura Newe” and “Mari Hairambwe”, which are part of the “Stripped” compilation, captivated the imagination of hip-hop fans.
At some point, the gifted composer and singer would easily be part of sold-out gigs at imposing venues like the Alexandra Sports Club in Harare.
Takura is now struggling to regain his mojo. The majority of the songs that he released of late are a far cry from those of his peak days. The productions have not been that appealing.
Based on how his music has evolved over the years, one might be tempted to make unimaginable conclusions regarding the singer’s music career.
Takura is of the view that drug and substance abuse derailed his career and resulted in him losing “everything”.
“Drugs never contributed to my rise. Instead, I lost everything to drugs. Every single thing in my life,” he said. “I was always postponing my programmes as I concentrated more on drugs.”
He chronicled how he ended up at a drug rehabilitation centre.
“I was obviously abusing drugs and at the same time suffering from depression. I was struggling with a lot of things in my life. I lost family members, friends and opportunities. During this period, I was not the easiest of people to deal with,” said Takura.
The rapper considers himself lucky to be alive. “If my manager Mike Rich had not looked out for me, I am sure I would have been dead by now. I would have not lasted a month or two,” he said.
“Mike has been my manager since 2018 and he is the one who decided to take me into rehab. He has helped me when I had nobody else to help me and for that, I am very grateful.”
Takura feels there are a lot of misconceptions surrounding depression and therapy sessions.
“Some people still think that depression and therapy sessions are meant for white people. This mentality is causing the death of so many people,” he said.
During rehabilitation, the singer says, he learnt a lot of useful lessons.
“Growing up, I used to isolate myself from others, even at home; I would spend most of my time in my bedroom,” he said. “In rehabilitation, everyone is treated the same. Circumstances forced me to socialise with the other boys.
“At first, I was struggling to adjust to the conditions. I even entertained thoughts of running away. Later on, I adjusted and I ended up liking the place.”
