Leonard Karikoga Zhakata

Country	Zimbabwean

Leonard Karikoga Zhakata is a towering figure in Zimbabwean music, renowned for pioneering ZORA (Zimbabwe Original Rhythms of Africa), a high-energy genre that blends Sungura with profound social and spiritual commentary. He achieved legendary status in 1994 with the release of Maruva Enyika, featuring the record-breaking hit "Mugove," which solidified his place as the youngest musician in the country to surpass 100,000 in album sales. His stage name, "Karikoga," translates to "Loner" in Shona, a title that reflects both his upbringing as the only male child among seven siblings and the weight of responsibility he felt during a childhood marked by the liberation war. A former fitter and turner by trade, Zhakata has evolved from a secular superstar into an ordained pastor, continuing to use his platform to address the struggles and aspirations of the common person.