Ex-Macheso guitarist eyes come back

14 Nov, 2021 - 00:11 0 Views
Ex-Macheso guitarist eyes come back

The Sunday Mail

Veronica Gwaze

VETERAN rhythm guitarist Lucky Mumiriki is happy to have recovered from a life-threatening stroke that derailed his music career a decade ago.

The stroke grounded him as he could literally do nothing.

However, the former Orchestra Mberikwazvo guitarist has now tremendously improved, though he is yet to resume playing the guitar full-time.

Mumiriki said it pains him not to be able to do what he loves most.

“Ndezvashe! I might be so eager to return on stage, but it is the Man above who decides what you can or cannot do. He also knows when it is time,” he said on the sidelines of Alick Macheso’s family show in the capital on Sunday.

“I am playing my part; taking my physiotherapy sessions seriously. I am happy with the progress I have made so far. There was a time I could not do anything, but that has all changed.”

Mumiriki suffered a stroke on May 14, 2011.

It marked a turning point in his life as he could no longer play the guitar either on stage or in the studio.

At some point, the talented guitarist was bitter and felt neglected by his paymaster, workmates and promoters.

So bad was the situation back then that he even vowed never to return on stage.

However, he later developed a positive mind which he believes has kept him going and helped him heal.

He loves music so much that he still attends live gigs, mainly in Chitungwiza and surrounding areas, even when the stroke made it difficult for him to move around.

“I am almost there, but I feel there is still more room for improvement in terms of flexibility on my hand. I keep practising at home so that I get fully fit. I guess it is just a matter of time. It might not be like the old times, but I am sure I will be able to play,” said Mumiriki, who also had a dance with System Tazvida’s Chazezesa Challengers.

His speech has improved and he can now walk at a decent pace, albeit with a limp.

“I had thrown in the towel, but watching my colleagues in action made me soldier on.”

But, will the guitarist reunite with Orchestra Mberikwazvo or he will be joining Boys Dze Nyombwe fronted by businessman-cum-musician Joy Commander?

Joy Commander roped in the reputable guitarist into his band last year as a backing vocalist, executive producer and overseeing the band’s rehearsals.

“An announcement will be made,” said Mumiriki.

“God has stood by me over the years. He is still in control, so I will just follow his lead.”

For survival, he had taken to poultry, although his project collapsed due to challenges associated with the coronavirus pandemic.

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