Tsonga disco music legend Joe Shirimani now exploring sounds of the African diaspora

Newly releasedProject Diasporafeatures Valu Neithan (Uganda), Joe Shirimani (SA), Stanco who sings in Shona but originally from SA and Brace Thorn Shirimani (SA). The EP is called Tulibamu which simple means We Are One in Ugadan language, and it was released on July 25. The EP showcases various African influences.

By Funeka Bambalele

After three successful decades in the music industry and with 28 albums to his name, Tsonga music legend and producer Joe Shirimani is now set to take his sound to the diaspora.

Born William Sheremane Monkwe in a small village of Makaunyane around Pretoria, he has consistently maintained his success by embracing an open-minded approach and fearlessly exploring new territories. To remain relevant over the years, he has focused on collaborating with young artists, a strategy that has proven effective throughout his career.

 He believes that working with youth is essential because “young people frequent clubs where music is played and where others gather. You must do something that resonates with them otherwise you will be left behind. I have managed to master that for the past three decades and I don’t know what will happen going forward.” This insight reflects his commitment to staying connected with contemporary musical trends.

Joe Shirimani has been contemplating his exploration of the diaspora market for some time, feeling the need to do something different. He began by creating a unique sound that strongly influences African music, incorporating elements into his recent album.

 Although his fans initially did not embrace this new direction, he continued to experiment with his sound until the COVID-19 pandemic compelled everyone to stay home and limit activities. During this time, the idea for the project was revived and brought to life.

Project Diaspora features Valu Neithan (Uganda), Joe Shirimani (SA), Stanco who sings in Shona but originally from SA and Brace Thorn Shirimani (SA). The EP is called Tulibamu which simple means We Are One in Ugadan language, and it was released on July 25. The EP showcases various African influences. A quick listen to some of the tracks takes you somewhere in Africa where you dance kwasa kwasa.

 “I have always wanted to explore African music after disco and traditional styles. I’ve sampled this music but noticed they often didn’t understand these songs. I’ve always wanted to create something unique. My friend and I decided to combine South African, Shona, and Ugandan styles, resulting in something interesting.”

 The lyrics are in Sotho, isiZulu, Xitsonga, Shona, and Ugandan languages. With the fusion of different languages and musical styles, Joe Shirimani is confident that music fans will embrace this project.

 “The aim is to capture the continent with this sound, as the languages spoken here bring us together. Through the music we are just emphasizing our unity as Africans during this time.”

Joe Shirimani began his music career as a Xitsonga disco artist. After 2010, he focused on promoting his own culture and language through music. He developed a new genre called Dzumba, a modernized version of Xitsonga traditional music, because he believes that music evolves.

Upon recognizing the pervasive inferiority complex that had settled among the Tsonga-speaking communities, particularly those residing in Pretoria and Johannesburg, he took it upon himself to instill a sense of pride in their identity. For too long, many Tsonga individuals felt compelled to suppress their cultural expressions, opting instead for a fractured version of Zulu to gain acceptance in a society that often judged them harshly.

To celebrate their heritage, he included a poignant track in Penny Penny’s album titled “Sichangane Yishilungu,” which translates to “The Shangaan Language is similar to English.” This song juxtaposed words from both languages, encouraging Tsonga people to reclaim their voice and speak freely in their native tongue, fostering a sense of community and pride.

Beyond his personal artistic journey, Joe Shirimani distinguished himself as a music producer of exceptional integrity—one who championed the success of others rather than hoarding opportunities for himself. While many producers turned away aspiring talent, he made it his mission to uncover and nurture emerging artists. This talent scouting commenced shortly after his partnership with BMG, which later joined forces with Sony to become SonyBMG. His keen ear led to the discovery of several Tsonga artists, including the likes of Esta M and Penny Penny (real name Eric

Nkovani), who subsequently became stalwarts in the music scene.

“I first discovered Esta M before stumbling upon Penny Penny,” Joe Shirimani recalled. “I secured a deal for her with BMG while recording her at Shandell Studios in town. Meanwhile, Penny was working as a cleaner there and overheard Esta recording in a language that resonated deeply with him. Driven by ambition, he approached me, expressing his desire to sing.”

“Despite facing scepticism from numerous producers who doubted his talent, Penny Penny showcased his extraordinary vocal ability after just a brief audition. I decided to feature him in one of Esta M’s songs, and he delivered an unforgettable performance. Once we wrapped up Esta M’s album we focused on Penny Penny. When it came out it sent shockwaves through the industry and became a phenomenal hit in 1994, propelling him to the pinnacle of success.”

 Joe Shirimani recognized the unique contributions that both artists brought to the Tsonga disco music genre. Esta M had previously collaborated with music legend Thomas Chauke before embarking on her solo career, while Penny Penny possessed a distinctive vocal style reminiscent of Peter Tenet, whose rough timbre struck a chord with audiences.

“I sensed that the industry was hungry for something different,” Joe Shirimani reflected. I took a chance, and his distinct voice captivated the entire music landscape.”

 Thus, with a blend of courage and vision, Joe Shirimani not only transformed the careers of these artists but also revitalized the representation of Tsonga culture in the South African music industry.