Tryson Chimbetu

Tryson Chimbetu is one of the survivors of the dendera music. He is son to the late Naison. Naison and his brothers Simon, Allan and Brian became popular in the 1980s. They released a series of songs branded under Marxist Brothers band. Brian and Simon are also late. Tryson inherited the culture of music from his uncles and father. He began learning the guitar back in high school and this prompted him to carry it with him and practice during his free time.

In 2002, he joined the music industry. This was prompted by a Mutare tour that he had with his father. He was fortunate to have the blessings of a father who kept encouraging him to pursue a career in music. When his father passed on, he joined his Sulumani’s band. Sulumani is son of his late uncle Simon. The joint venture did not last for long owing to disagreements. The twosome was forced to part ways.

In 2005, he formed his own band Marxist Brothers. Its formation prompted the recording and release of his debut album ‘Marxist Revival’ (2008). The album was well-received by fans. The ‘Marxist Revival’ album was followed by ‘Bvamrod’ (2010), ‘Nguva YaChimbetu’ and ‘Compass’ (2013).

The artist has reportedly gone through some challenges. In 2013, his musical instruments were allegedly seized upon failing to pay $300 to a local transport company that transported the equipment to Guruve and Rushinga for shows. In March of that same year, he was abandoned by his four band members when he failed to pay them for several months.

His involvement in music has seen organisations awarding him certain roles. In May 2013, he was appointed Zimbabwe Red Cross (ZRC) humanitarian youth ambassador. The role was designed to advocate youth empowerment particularly among the less privileged. In 2014, he embarked on a maiden international show in South Africa. He performed at Transvaal Hotel in Boksburg.