The Sunday Mail
Without doubt, Obey Makamure, whose stage name is Tocky Vibes, is one of the most enigmatic characters in local showbiz. His ‘weird’ outfits have become a hot topic among showbiz followers. The same can be said about the choice of names for his child(ren), songs and albums. It appears the talented musician is never short of surprises for his fans. He recently shocked many after a nasty fallout with fellow musician ExQ, which resulted in the audio and video of the song “Wakatemba” being briefly taken down by YouTube. However, a simple conversation with the “Tocky Aenda Nenyika” singer easily proves that he is not only down-to-earth but he is dreaming big as well. He recently sat down with our reporter BRIGHTON ZHAWI.
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Q: Your fashion choice has set various social media platforms ablaze? Can you tell us about it?
A: (Laughs) Art is like a flower garden. It is colourful and beautiful! I am just different and it is a blessing from God. I believe I have been a unique artiste from the days I got my breakthrough in music. Similarly, I am different on the fashion side, too. I try to create unique attires every time for my videos or gigs. That way, I become distinct from everyone else.
Q: It appears like you are not slowing down on the music side. What is inspiring the release of all this new music?
A: I still have a lot of unreleased songs as we never stopped working from the beginning of the lockdown. Inasmuch as the lockdown affected our normal shows – the major revenue stream – we used the time to fine-tune some songs we had already recorded. Also, we began working on new music. I am going to be dropping more music this year. Our fans should expect more because we already have it.
Q: Anything special to look forward to on the new music?
A: I can say that I am working on a collaboration with Mr Brown from South Africa. Something big is definitely coming. So, while you enjoy “Manyatera”, “Chikwereti” and “Mabhiriyati”, just know much greater stuff is on its way.
Q: How is your relationship with ExQ?
A: All is good. He is my brother. You saw the song was put back on YouTube, so that sums it all up. In fact, we are working on something together?
Q: You seem to work well under Mount Zion Music. What do you make of this relationship?
A: The producer is a hardworking man. I respect his work ethic. The thing is if you work hard, you automatically go on the same page with me. However, I feel like I have not yet reached greater heights. Look at guys like the late Lucky Dube. He made a huge impact across the world and for me to be at that level, I must work hard. Tikuda kutoimbawo nana Jay Z (I also want to sing with Jay Z). We should grow.
Q: What do you attribute your staying power in the cutthroat music industry to?
A: It is the blessing of God. When I reflect on my life and career, I can see the hand of God. A lot of people have helped me as well and I am grateful and humbled. As a person, I have tried to be as humble as possible. There is no need for pride in life. Everyone is talented and there are so many better artistes out there. I have learnt that humility takes you far.
Q: Last month you celebrated your son’s birthday. How do you balance being an artiste and family man?
A: It gives me purpose because when I work, I will be doing it for him and his mother. My wife is supportive and I value her advice.
Q: On that, what inspired the classic track “Mhai” and how did your mother respond to it?
A: She loves it so much. I just thought of appreciating her. You know mothers sacrifice a lot for us, so I had to express my feelings through the song.
Q: Any parting words?
A: I am proud another guy from Rugare, Kae Chaps, is doing well. I am happy for him. For someone who was helped on my way up, I am willing to do the same for others. That is why you see I do collaborations with other artistes. I consider it a way of helping others as well.
