By Emison Haripindi
Mwayesa Cheruza (53), a reggae and Zimdancehall artist from Highfield, is yearning for a collaboration with young Zimdancehall artists.
Popularly known as Quagga in Highfield’s Western Triangle suburb, the 53-year-old has rebranded himself as HardTarget in line with his new musical direction.
Speaking to this publication, the musician said he joined Zimdancehall as a way of showing young people that the genre is not all about dirty lyrics, but can also be used to spread love, address social ills and help build the country.
“I still have the energy and am ready to mix and collaborate with the youngsters.
“As a father, I would like to show our youths that we can sing clean lyrics and do shows that can draw the whole family to our venues.
“I also sing reggae for the mature audience,” he said.
Asked if he faces challenges in the industry, HardTarget said, like any budding musician, he faces financial challenges.
“Yes, I face challenges financially as I want to record and do shows.
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“I am a family man, and the money I get from my hustles is what I use to fund my music. I therefore have to divide my income between my family and music.
“Nowadays, it is better because they now understand and are supportive,” he said.
HardTarget said new artists also struggle to gain recognition, as they mostly rely on social media to promote their music.
“As new artists, it is a bit hard to get recognition from the fans as we mostly rely on social media. We would like established radio stations to help us.
“My wish is to get promoters and do collaborations with other artists,” he said.
HardTarget said he had uploaded some of his music on YouTube, with songs such as Karwiyo Kerudo and Sa Cristiano na Messi doing well.
With young artists such as Ngwere Diki, King Alfa and Young Junitor enjoying a huge following, it remains to be seen whether the 53-year-old grandfather can break into the competitive Zimdancehall scene and gain recognition.
Will he one day feature at Cup Clashes or get a chance to record with the famed Chillspot Records?
Time will tell.
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