Take Fizzo is a Zimbabwean music producer and musician with almost 20 years experience in the business. He has produced numerous hits and worked with many artists starting off in the early 00s during the birth of the Urban Grooves era. Most recently he has produced hits for artists such as Ammara Brown among many others as well as the award winning trio, Few Kings which he is also part of.
Where did the name Take Fizzo come from?
My mentor, Delani (Step Aside) Makhalima inspired the name it started off as Take 5 (what directors on a set say when he/she wants everyone to take a break). The idea was to say that once I start to produce everyone “takes 5” it then changed over the years to Take Fizzo.
How long have you been in the music industry and what has been the key to your success?
I started loving music since I was 10 years, when my father bought a Sony HiFi and got me a couple of rap albums. I only managed to get into a studio at 15, I was part of the ground-breaking album “The Future” almost 20 years in the business and my motto is “work with those who want it as bad if not more than you”.
Where did your passion for music come from?
My parents. They had tons of vinyls from Stevie wonder, Bob Marley and the Wailers, Thomas Mapfumo, Dolly Parton, Kenny Rogers you name it they had it. Every second weekend there was a turn up at our house and they would play music all night, dance and have a blast. So, from a young age I saw the power of music in uniting people.
If you were to describe your role the music industry what would it be?
My role is simple, I’m a King Maker.
Who inspires you in life?
My 2 boys, Zuva and Zion. They give me a sense of belonging and give me the strength to continue being great.
Who are the rocks in your life?
My mother, (Amai Grace) she is in her words “My all-weather jacket” she has been my number one supporter and critic.
Which one of the songs you’ve worked on is your favourite and why?
No favs, songs to me are like children, different but no favs.
What is your favourite project you have worked on?
Chamhembe vol 1 and Few Kings – The Feeling Ain’t Fair.
Where in the world would like to go and play a live set?
I would love to be a Rolling Stone and travel the whole world and play. In Africa, Zanzibar. Europe, France. Special mention to Thailand, Brazil, Portugal and Jamaica, but my dream is to fill up the National Sports Stadium. Imajeni, a whole 75k people vibing to your ish? What a vibe!!!!
What’s on cards for the rest of the year?
Its April already… wow time flies, this year I am mainly focusing on ME. Learning new instruments, working on a degree in music, so in terms of music I might be a bit “quiet”. I will be releasing Tulk Munny’s “Skiri RemuFirim” soon. And random tracks here and there. I will be back in full-time music production next year.
How important are awards to you when you create a new project?
An album, mixtape, ep etc is a journey. What’s most important to me with a project is watching it come alive. Cherishing the lovely moments and Overcoming all the obstacles along the way. Just like a baby, after the nine months the parent is happy having a baby. Compliments/disses from others will not make the parent love the child any less or more.
How do you know when a song is going to be hit?
When my son Zuva sings along to it.
How far away is the Zim music industry from reaching its full potential and being recognised internationally?
It is close, we learn new things every day and I’m happy to say that we apply them. More videos are coming out, the social media presence is there our tracks are getting better quality wise. I’m happy with the progress.
Name 3 artists you would you like to work with and why?
Teckno Miles – because he has got this amazing vibe on tracks
Sarkodie – He is my favourite African Rapper
Kikky Bad Ass – I crush on her lol!
Who are your favourite Zim artists and why?
Roki – A friend, a genius
The late Oliver Mtukudzi – a legend
The late Mateo – Absolutely brilliant
Which upcoming artists should we look out for this year?
I don’t like the term upcoming, I feel all artists are great, some have been unearthed but doesn’t mean the others are not good. Look out for Meister this dude takes Shona raps to the next level.
Ishan is dope, very keen to hear more from him. Vocally look out for a guy called Tendex. He is wild. But with Zim there is a span of talent, this is my 3 right now.
How can people access your music or get in touch with you?
Hit me up on social Media. Instagram/Twitter/Facebook – @takefizzo
For my music, go to www.soundcloud.com/takefizzo
What advice do you have for aspiring artists?
Your biggest enemy/hater/naysayer is YOU!!!! Hard work, Positive thinking and keeping your eye on your dream is all you need to succeed.
How would you like to be remembered?
Musical innovation is full of danger to the State, for when modes of music change, the laws of the State always change with them. – Plato
I want to be remembered for making a positive change to our people. Remembered for being an advocate for honesty, integrity and character. My dream is to open a school of music and have a big ass statue by the forecourt.
