Simon Mutambi Rides High With 13th Album “Yadeuka Yadeuka”

Consistent sungura musician Simon Mutambi says his dedication and persistence have shaped his rise in Zimbabwe’s music scene. The Cobra Kings frontman, who hails from the farming community of Beatrice, is celebrating rave reviews for his 13th album Yadeuka Yadeuka, a project that has been embraced by both fans and radio stations across the country.

The album features the hit track Chimbomira, which has become a fan favourite and boosted Mutambi’s visibility online. Local radio DJs have also endorsed the project as one of his strongest works to date.

“I can’t thank my loyal fans and God enough for the support they have shown me over the years. I can’t believe I now have a 13th album to my credit, coming from my days as a beginner in Beatrice, which I have always called home,” Mutambi said.

The album was recorded at Trutone Studios and mastered by Gibson Makumbe, a move that gave it a distinct sound. Mutambi says he has received an overwhelming response from fans who have been calling in with positive feedback.

Now in his late 30s, Mutambi represents a new wave of sungura musicians, alongside Mark Ngwazi, Romeo Gasa, and Peter Moyo. His message remains clear: consistency pays.

“When we started, we were not taken seriously by some people, but I am happy because I am now seeing the rewards of consistency. With the sales from this new album, I have managed to buy a tractor worth US$12 500 ahead of the farming season,” he revealed.

In addition to music, Mutambi is also a successful farmer in Beatrice. He believes artistes must diversify and avoid relying on music alone.

“It’s high time we avoid putting all our eggs in one basket. The Covid-19 lockdown taught us the importance of having multiple income streams. At Cobra Kings, I always challenge my peers to invest in other areas because we don’t want to raise a generation of lazy people,” he said.

Mutambi has been passing these lessons on to his band members, emphasising that music must be complemented with other ventures to ensure financial stability.

His career highlights include being the first sungura artist to perform at the Harare International Festival of Arts in 2007. He has also built a strong fan base in rural areas and small towns, often choosing to perform where demand is highest.

“As artistes, we are like hunters; we must know where our audience is. While I also perform well in urban areas, we need to go where the demand is highest because, at the end of the day, we must put food on the table,” Mutambi explained.

Despite the growth of other genres like Urban Grooves, Zimdancehall, and Zim Hip Hop, Mutambi believes sungura remains a dominant force in Zimbabwean music.

“Over the years, we have seen many genres, but sungura is here to stay. We need to adopt a business-minded approach and embrace technology to respect our craft,” he said.

Looking ahead, Mutambi plans to invest more in visuals, recognising the power of music videos in reaching wider audiences and monetising content online.

His discography is extensive, with earlier albums such as Zvinotyisei (2009), Zvinesimba (2010), Ane Nyaya Yake (2011), Zvese Ndezvako (2012), Pasi Pedenga (2014), Makakosha Wani (2016), and Hazviperi Mushe (2017). His YouTube videos have also gained traction, helping him grow beyond traditional platforms.

With his grounded approach, work ethic, and passion for farming and music, Simon Mutambi continues to prove why he is one of sungura’s most consistent and exciting talents. He remains an artist to watch as the genre evolves and adapts to new audiences.