Talented Mutare-based musician Richard Femayi released a single track last week applauding the healing powers of a local prophet, Madzibaba Shepherd Nzira, who has become a sensation in the eastern border city.
Femayi, who leads a seven-member band, released the single track titled "Madzibaba Nzira." He produced the song at Kunashe Studios.
Femayi explained his reasons for writing the song in an interview with Standard Style on Friday.
"I was going home one day and passed by Madzibaba Shepherd Nzira’s home in Mutare. I saw many people there and inquired what was happening," he said.
"That's when I found out there was a prophet doing wonders."
"Before I met the prophet, I had already heard that he performs miracles and has healing powers. This is why I decided to write a song praising him. I want people to learn about him through music," he added.
The Orchestra Harare leader said Nzira was a true man of God. Nzira is the son of the late Chitungwiza prophet Madzibaba Nzira, a popular spiritual healer whose shrine attracted high-ranking government officials, renowned businesspeople, and others.
He was also known for his immense wealth.
Nzira said he had few words, but acknowledged that this showed God's work.
"I don't have much to say, but when the musician approached me, I said I had no problem with a song being produced about me. However, let's praise God because I am merely being used as His servant," he added.
Femayi's music,which is called Bvanyangu, incorporates various genres, including gospel, rhumba, and sungura.
Femayi is also collaborating with Obert Chari on the song "Chamhamha" and featuring Mathias Mhere on the song "Munhuwenyama."
Today, Madzibaba Nzira's legacy is being carried on by his son, Shepherd (42), who has established himself in Mutare.
Nzira's sprawling mansion in the Mutare suburb of Hobhouse has become a shrine.
Hundreds of worshippers and those suffering from various ailments flock there for spiritual healing.
He has also adopted his father's title, Madzibaba Nzira. Some of his clients come from as far as the United States and Europe.
Nzira previously led Zvakazarurwa Zvevapostori and has inherited his father's spiritual gifts.