When walking solo in the plains of the savanna, with tall grass and predatory felines as the only company, would fear creep in at all?
Even when one goes on a very long hiatus from the public, is there anything to be afraid of when making a comeback?
The answer is simple: Hatitye. Loosely translated, hatitye means “we are not afraid.”
This is the track Mr. Alexio Kawara has chosen to resurrect his — never frail but often overlooked career: Hatitye.
His previous album releases, Tose and Kana, coupled with a plethora of singles, had already made him a household name.
Although it is clear from his latest release that he is likely to dominate the gospel genre as he did during his Urban Grooves era, Alexio will have to put in the work and remain consistent.
Like his fellow former Urban Groover, Tembalami, Alexio can easily become a force in gospel music.
What sets him apart is his ability to switch between genres that’s pure magic.
For someone who has been widely known for love songs, this switch could elevate him into uncharted territory: gospel music.
His voice on a pure Afro-beats track could still melt hearts as it did in his earlier days. Hatitye proves that.
An inscription about the song on YouTube describes it like this: Hatitye is a Shona word which means “we are fearless.”
This song speaks to the fears that hinder us from reaching our God-given destinies. We are assured of victory because God, the Creator, has given us the Way in the form of His Son, Jesus Christ. We walk fearlessly because we trust Him to lead the Way.
Could he be telling his fans that he now knows his destiny? The setting of the visuals alone speaks volumes showing that even in plains and unnatural environments, one need not fear as long as the Lord is with them.
The greatest tale told by this uniquely sounding track is its emphasis on the Word of God.
Alexio starts by digging up a Shona Bible, as if to symbolise the new musical path he is now taking.
Then, he leads a band of followers in single file perhaps to show that he is now guiding people toward the one true God.
His vocal prowess is not to be underestimated. He starts in a very low register and gradually shifts to higher notes, inviting the melodious backing vocalists.
Even the production quality of the song is exquisite. (Jairosi Hambahamba produced it; visuals were done by Simba Gee.)
The void he left, he has returned to fill. No other musician can do what Alexio does.
This is a beautiful song that could leave a mark on Africa.
Now, we wait for more new tracks from Lex. We can only hope they come soon.
Until then, PEACE…
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