In 2003, an all-boys group comprising blood brothers and cousins christened Nyasa Guruz was formed.
The group was made up of Fatsani Kalonda (Blak Jak), Jones Kwangwani (Pappa), Brave Mnyayi (Blak Seed), Mangaliso Mnyayi (Badde), Dumisani Mnyayi (Liko Bwoi), Jimmy Kwangwani (Jinke) and Peter Makalande (Zep).
Their music style and uniqueness quickly made Nyasa Guruz a likeable group which became a household name. Their songs topped the charts in various media outlets and a good number of their compositions became party anthems.
The group recorded three albums, Nthawi in 2006, followed by Tikudira in 2007 and Tabweranso in 2009.
Though it registered considerable success, their presence on the market was riddled with disappearing acts in between. They seem to have mastered the art of leaving the stage when people were expecting more from them.
But according to the group’s leader Pappa, the disappearing acts are part of their strategy.
“We do invest a lot in research. We try to analyse the market, our target audience and other factors which are crucial for our survival on the market,” he said.
After a lengthy hibernation, the Afro-dancehall group reappeared in 2018 when they released three singles, Ukamalira, Lero Ndi Lako and Akali Moyo.
Many of their fans were excited with their return and probably thought it was permanent.
The quality of the three singles showed they remained an outfit which is class apart. The compositions were typical Nyasa Guruz, with a club feel to it, a factor which made their music a darling to many youths.
However, just like before, the group went into another hiatus. And like they have done before, they have made yet another come back this year and have since released a single, Elube.
“We are now back to stay. We are now back with full force and our fans should anticipate experiencing an exciting music experience with Nyasa Guruz,” Pappa said.
The band leader said the release of their new single signals the start of their new project, an extended play (EP), to be released this year.
Pappa said work on the EP has already started and it is being recorded at their studio, Inhouse Media, by producer Martin Angelz.
“It has been quite a journey for us as a group. We have had our ups and downs, but overall we can say it has been an exciting experience for us. We have grown as people and artistically. The phase we have reached now is key for us,” he said.
Pappa said the group has benefitted from its composition as the blood ties allow them to reconcile quickly whenever they have differences.
“If there is need to criticise each other, we do so without any fears.
“We have grown up together and we realise that the intention for such criticism is for us to make sure we are sailing in the same direction,” he said.
The lead singer revealed that their upcoming EP will comprise seven songs.
Currently, because of other life demands, the group now remains with just five members namely Blak Jak, Pappa, Badde, Black Seed and Jinke.
Blak Jack, who also pursues a solo career, said making music with the group brings a satisfying feeling to him.
“It has been quite a ride. It has had everything: the fights and sweet memories. Being around the creatives itself is also exciting.
“Nyasa Guruz gave birth to Blak Jak and it also helped set a way for urban music in Malawi,” he said.
Whether their recent return is the final one, we are not sure. But for now their fans can enjoy Elube.
