Chris “Million” Masocha Set to Bring Mbaure Genre Home in April

South Africa-based Zimbabwean sungura musician Chris “Million” Masocha is making waves as he prepares to bring his unique musical style, the mbaure genre, across the Limpopo to his homeland in Zimbabwe this April. The talented frontman of the Livewire Band is gearing up to launch the mbaure genre on February 1 at Club Tropicana in Port Elizabeth, South Africa.

Masocha, a Mhondoro native, is enthusiastic about introducing mbaure, which he describes as a slower yet classic sub-genre of sungura. “Mbaure is unique in that it plays with four guitars, the saxophone, and marimba. It’s slower than typical sungura, but it carries the same energy and soul,” he explained. The upcoming launch event promises to be a night full of high-quality music and exciting performances, with Masocha assuring fans a memorable experience.

“I promise a night to remember—a whole night of quality classic sound and dances,” said Masocha, adding that the genre would continue to evolve over time. He noted the excitement surrounding the launch, with fans eagerly expressing their anticipation on social media platforms.

Masocha’s journey into music began in Zimbabwe, where he attended several schools, including Kawara Primary in Mubaira and Seke 4 High School. His love for music grew from an early age, although he lacked the exposure and mentorship that many aspiring musicians need. It was only when he moved to South Africa that he began to actively pursue his dream of becoming a professional musician.

His breakthrough came after meeting the Chitungwiza group Zim Select during a birthday celebration at Welcome Club in Zimbabwe. The group saw potential in him, and together they worked on his first album, Muri Huchi, in 2017. Masocha, who has been recognized for his versatility, is comfortable with multiple genres but has gravitated toward sungura, which is a style close to his heart.

Over the years, Masocha has continued to build his career, producing a series of successful tracks such as Tanha Dzaunosvikira (2019), Chasatani Hachidyiwe Mahara (2021), and Mhanduwe Musadaro (2024), among others. His ability to merge different musical influences while keeping the essence of traditional Zimbabwean sounds has earned him a dedicated following.

In addition to his music career, Masocha is an information technology professional, running shops that sell computers and accessories and operating salons in Port Elizabeth. However, his heart remains in music, and he is determined to take his sound beyond South Africa. “In three years’ time, music should take us far, including taking our music to other countries in the region and beyond,” he said.

Masocha’s accomplishments have not gone unnoticed, and he was honored with the Best Male Musician award at the 2024 Nelson Mandela Bay Zim Business Excellence Awards in Port Elizabeth. With his mbaure genre gaining popularity, he is poised to make an even greater impact in the music industry, both in Zimbabwe and abroad.

As Masocha prepares to introduce his mbaure genre to Zimbabwe in April, fans can expect to hear a fresh, innovative sound that blends traditional sungura rhythms with modern instrumentation. His dedication to evolving Zimbabwean music while staying true to its roots is sure to leave a lasting mark on the industry.