He was here, he lived and he left a mark!
Sad news of the passing on of multi talented artist Delroy “Scara” Maripakwenda shocked many Zimbabweans this morning. Tributes have been flooding social media as the creatives sector mourns a young star whose potential most feel was not exhausted. His death came as a shock to most people who went on to spend the greater part of the day sharing memories they had with him. This comes after a week-long of “good vibes” from Shoko Festival which ended this weekend.
Delroy Scara Maripakwenda was famous for being “The heartbeat of Winky D’s live performances” and at some point he was one of the few, if any, African aero drummers. He had been in the creative scene for over 6 years taking up the stage as a dancer, choreographer and drummer. His dedication and hard work was evident in his performances. At the time of his death, the young star had graced many stages, worked with several big platforms such as Fiesta Fiesta Zimbabwe, Houz of Gruv and artists including Winky D and Oliver Mutukudzi, featured on at least two radio stations and had more than 4 articles documenting his art. As much as we are heartbroken to have lost him so soon, we are grateful to have a part of him living with us through his many great performances available online.
What was significant about Scara as an artist is that he managed to make a name for himself and much could be learnt from him on Finding Your Space as a Musician/Instrumentalist in a Vocalist dominated music industry. “I believe a generic instrumentalist can have a meaningful career and be successful outside a band as this allows one to be open and unique in their own craft and be able to fully articulate their own vision in light with their own talent. Being in a band limits one to conform to the lead artist’s vision and at the same time the visions should be the same and in sync if one is going to make it with a band.” He said in an interview earlier this year. His videos and content online shows that he wasn’t just all talk but lived to make a recognizable brand. Delroy knew that the industry needs a lot of bricks to start recognizing instrumentalists as artists in their own rights as opposed to being in the shadow of vocalists.
We have surely been robbed of so much more from the ecstatic drummer who had plans of sharing his great talent with the world. “After the lock down, there is going to be a re-invention of Scara the drummer. I will also be introducing drumming classes and I will be working on a drumming rehabilitation initiative for Autistic children. I will also be continuing with wedding choreography bookings and am looking more into the virtual world because that’s where we are headed as a globe.” , Scara said during an interview with Mumhanzi Media in April this year. As we say rest well to Delroy “Scara” Maripakwenda”, let’s make a point to leave a mark with our art for the world to cherish.
Having worked with Delroy for so many years, at Jibilika we are deeply saddened by the loss of a friend, brother and fellow artist. Our condolences to family and friends. Rest easy Scara!
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