Trust Khosa
THE late Robson Kaitano, who lost his battle to cancer this week, was a true sungura legend, fellow musicians say.
Kaitano, who mentored the likes of Madzibaba Nicholas Zakaria, Alick Macheso and Shepherd Chinyani, was laid to rest in Goromonzi.
Despite keeping a low profile Kaitano, who died aged 69, was hailed as one of sungura’s unsung heroes.
Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (ZIMURA) board vice chairperson, First Farai, said the history of sungura would be incomplete without the inclusion of Kaitano’s name.
“Growing up, we used to hear about this figure whose strength was mentorship.
“He was a humble guy who helped nearly all the household names in sungura, including Madzibaba Nicholas Zakaria.
“I got to know him when I was performing at Majuru Growth Point in Goromonzi where he used to come and attend our shows.
“He was, indeed, a down-to-earth guy,” he said.
Farai also hailed the late singer for his contribution to ZIMURA.
“When I joined ZIMURA, he was already a member and he would make meaningful contributions. As an association, we have lost a loyal member who was committed to our cause.
“He was a paid-up member and he would make himself available despite his long battle with cancer.
“As an association, we will always cherish his contribution.”
Madzibaba Zakaria said: “He was a fine gentleman who loved his job and also teaching others.
“I was lucky to have worked with him and perfected my skills under his great mtutelage.
“Back in the day, these were the people we looked up to,” he said.
Kaitano is famed for such songs as Kongonya, Deredzai Pfuma Vatezvawa and Hondo Yarwiwa Kare.