By Trevor Makonyonga
It is always an inspiring sight when artists grow their craft. Such is the story of former Munya Mataruse and Mbeu’s drummer, Watson “Jay Watta” Chidzomba (Jr) who recently went solo forming his own band.
The 29 year old told Bustop TV about his recent adventure.
He said, “I started writing my music six years ago when I was still a drummer for other bands. I compiling my music for the future plan to lead my own band which is a dream come true. I started off my solo career last year, 2020, with a 4 piece band drums, keyboards, bass and me on acoustic guitar and mbira. The band consists of Tafadzwa Mataraunda is the keybord player, Keith Musena who is the late Oliver Mtukudzi drummer and I am on the lead vocals, composing, acoustic guitar and mbira.”
Most people could be hearing about the artist now but he has quite an impressive portfolio for his age.
His first qualification came naturally at birth as he is the son of veteran actor and former Pakare Paye manager Watson Chidzomba. Although he has featured on some productions, Jay Watta chose not to fully follow his father’s footsteps choosing to focus more on music.
His career was launched when he was part of the now defunct cultural band, Pakare Paye Ensemble. At the ensemble he play Marimba at different venues whilst he was just a schoolboy. He opened for the late Sam Mtukudzi with the ensemble.
Fast forward to when he was out of school, Jay Watta would join Munyaradzi Mataruse as a drummer. He was part of the band until Munya left for Canada. That is when Ashton ‘Mbeu’ Nyahora would adopt the band becoming the first Mhodzi Tribe.
Jay Watta would also perform with Oliver Mtukudzi, share the stage with the late great Dorothy Masuka, Ringo Madlingozi and was part of the Tuku @60 bash in South Africa. He has performed at various Jazz festivals locally and South Africa. He also performed at the Pakare Paye Solo festival.
Apart from recording with other notable artists, Jay Watta has released such songs as Usazochema, Love is blind and Hameno.
His music and performances can be accessed on YouTube and Facebook. He has vowed to keep working on his career and churn out a new sound.