Afro-pop musician Ishan (pictured), who has just dropped his album titled Bhundu Pop, has been sucked into a tribal storm after his sentiments during an interview on Power FM last week.
By Sindiso Dube
Asked what the craziest moment that he had ever experienced since he became “famous”, Ishan responded:
“The reception by Nust [National University of Science and Technology]. I thought I was going to be stoned by the Ndebeles, but then they were like the Shonas, they were like my people,” Ishan said.
“Before I went there, I heard that people in Bulawayo don’t like music from Harare and they only listen to house music, so I was really nervous.”
Born Isheanesu Chigagura, Ishan went on to say he only took the gig because he was getting paid.
“I took the gig because I was being paid and if I had been stoned, I didn’t care. As long as my guys are eating, it’s okay,” he said.
Social media users came out guns blazing at the singer for his statement.
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“So, the Ndebeles are not his people, only the Shona tribe is his people. This is all tribal,” one social media user said.
“Did he just say they were like my people? Is he implying that other tribes can’t be his fans?” asked another social media user.
Ishan later apologised for his sentiments to his fans and the public.
“I would like to express my greatest apology to everyone, who was offended by my comments. By no means did I mean to destroy a fabric of who we are as a people. Understanding this I wouldn’t like anyone to go through another Ishan moment like what happened,” the Kure singer said.
“Therefore, for the purpose of now and the future, I am more than willing to sit down and have more dialogues around such issues to help us bring change to such a matter as I believe this shifts the conversation for the next generation or anyone who looks up to me as a bigger brother, industry friend or fan.”
Ishan is riding high with his new offering Bhundu Pop which features Tammy Moyo, Gemma Griffiths and Gze.
