Known as "The Lion of Zimbabwe," Thomas Mapfumo is one of the best-known African artists on the world music scene today. He successfully introduced the traditional sacred music of the metal-pronged Mbira and Ngoma drumming into the mainstream through his music. Known for championing African culture and causes, Mapfumo has been a driving force in African pride and identity. He is also known as “Gandanga” (freedom fighter) and has fearlessly spearheaded his Chimurenga beats through his continued tremendous contributions to the struggle for a united, prosperous, and comfortable Zimbabwe. His tireless liveliness in civil rights activism prods him to exploit his tools of trade to communicate with the public in song.
Program of African Studies
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