Leonard Zhakata facts for kids

Leonard "Karikoga" Zhakata (born 25 June 1968) is a famous musician and singer from Zimbabwe. He mostly writes and sings in his native Shona language. Zhakata is known for his sparkling outfits and popular songs like Hupenyu Mutoro, Batai Mazwi, and "Gomba Remarara". His biggest hit was "Mugove" from the 1994 album Maruva Enyika. This song became very popular and helped him become a national star.

Early Life and Musical Journey

Leonard Zhakata started writing his first song in 1986. He was once part of a music group called SUNGURA BOYS. Other famous musicians like Simon Chimbetu and Nicholas Zakariah were also in this group. Later, Zhakata and his nephew Thomas Makion formed their own group called Maungwe Brothers.

In 1994, when he was 26 years old, Zhakata made history. He became the youngest Zimbabwean musician to sell over 100,000 copies of an album. His solo album Maruva Enyika sold more than 120,000 copies!

Speaking Out Through Music

Zhakata has sometimes used his music to share his thoughts about important issues. In 2006, he spoke about wanting more radio stations to be available for Zimbabweans. Some of his songs have been restricted from playing on state radio. This happened because people thought his music contained political messages.

From Fitter to Famous Singer

Leonard Zhakata is the only boy in a family of seven children. He also trained as a Fitter and Turner. When he was young, he used to sneak out of his home to play music with his friends. At just thirteen years old, while at Shiri Yedenga School, he composed his first song called "Baba vaSamson".

It took some time for Leonard to record his music. He faced challenges and was turned down by recording companies. But he didn't give up! In 1989, he finally got his big break and recorded his first song, "Moyo muti". This was followed by his album "Yarira Mhera" in 1990.

The Rise of a Star

Zhakata's skills in writing songs kept getting better. He released popular songs like 'Tungidza Gwenya' and 'Shungu dzemwoyo'. However, it was his album Maruva Enyika with the hit song Mugove in 1994 that truly made him a superstar.

This album, along with his talented band, The Zimbabwean All Stars Band, and amazing dance moves, became a huge sensation. "Mugove" was played everywhere during the festive season that year. After this success, albums like Nzombe Huru and Vagoni Vebasa further cemented his place in Zimbabwean music.

The Meaning Behind "Karikoga"

Leonard Zhakata gave himself the nickname "Karikoga." This Shona word means "Loner." He chose this name because of the difficulties he faced growing up alone and in poverty. Many of his songs talk about the struggles of ordinary people and those who had a tough childhood.

Discography

• Sheshe Yangu, 1989
• Yarira Mhere, 1990
• Shungu Dzemoyo, 1991
• Maruva Enyika, 1994
• Nhamo Dzenyika, 1995
• Mandishorei, 1995
• Nzombe Huru, 1996
• Greatest Hits, 1996 (compilation)
• Vagoni Vebasa, 1997
• Ndingaite Sei?, 1998
• Pakayambuka, 1999
• Kumera Kwezora, 2000
• Original Rhythms Of Africa (ZORA) (also known as Ndiriwenyu), 2000
• Mubikira, 2001
• Hodho, 2003 (once banned in Zimbabwe)
• Udza Vamwe (Spread the message), 2004
• Tine Vimbo, 2006
• Zora meets Mbira (Zombi),2009
• Gotwe (Last Born), 2011
• Zvangu zvaita, 21 December 2013
• Mutungadzose 8 July 2016
• Game Changer (released as a single with 2 versions)
• Musandityire (I am a Fighter), June 2020 (a single off the upcoming album titled Mupendero Wenguva)
• Mupendero Wenguva 14 December 2022