Harare

Zimbabwe has produced many artists who have made a name for themselves in different ways. Among these artists the name Kudaushe Matimba should be included. Mbira and marimba master, Kudaushe Matimba was born in Rusape and grew up in the townships of Harare. He spent most of his youth in Zimbabwe inspired by life and the struggle for justice.

Learning the marimba at school, Matimba then started to perform with his brother and music mentor, Richard (RIP) in his marimba band Svinurai (Open Your Eyes). He released his first single 'Nhamo Yamakandipa' and 'Hurombo' in 1995. Matimba’s career include stints with great musicians such as Beulah Djoko, Clive Malunga, Prince Tendai and Stella Chiweshe, as well as master guitarists Jonah Sithole, Louise Mhlanga, Ashton ‘Sugar’ Chiweshe and Joshua Dube. It is with these artists that Matimba garnered his reputation as one of Zimbabwe’s prolific musicians.

The last few years have seen the blossoming of Matimba’s music career with the Bhundu Boys. He eventually headed to Britain to pursue different musical opportunities, leading to collaborations with other African artists such as Chartwell Dutiro, Kora master Kadialy Kouyate, Juldeh Camara, Shiyani N’cobo, Rafiki Jazz, Mabulu and many other artists.

Matimba formed Harare in 2005. He acquired his music degree at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) in London in 2007.