James Chimombe

James Chimombe (1951–1990) was a Zimbabwean vocalist and a guitarist. His career included stints with OK Success, the Acid Band, the Ocean City Band, and the Huchi Band. His music melded Kenyan, South African, and Congolese influences into Zimbabwean music. James also worked American Country & Western sounds into his music, combining them with African horns and light, lilting guitar lines.

Biography

Chimombe got his start as a rhythm guitarist with Thomas Mapfumo's Acid Band. He next moved to the Blacks Unlimited and OK Success. As one of Zimbabwe's first resident Congolese bands, OK Success recruited top Zimbabwean musicians and produced a string of hits in the 1960s and 1970s.

Paul Tangi Mhova Mkondo owner of Club Hide-Out 99 was instrumental in establishing James Chimombe who was the resident musician at Club Hideout 99. During the 1980s Chimombe led the Ocean City Band, and led the Huchi Band until his death. He also spent some time with the Real Sounds of Africa. Chimombe is best known for his hits "Jemedza", "Kudakwashe", and "Bindura". Chimombe was heavily influenced by Motown Stars especially Lionel Richie. Chimombe would during the week sessions sometimes sing and perform Lionel Richie songs at Club HideOut 99 where he was the resident artist.In 1990.

Death

Chimombe died of AIDS in Zimbabwe.