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Darlington Nafitari’s relationship with music began in 2017, playing at church and crusades. What started as a humble pursuit soon became a professional calling in 2019, when he decided to take music seriously. “I was inspired by the music business,” he explains, “and that’s how I got the drive to become a professional bass guitarist.”
His earliest influences were the legends of Zimbabwean music, Thomas Mapfumo, Oliver Mtukudzi, Mbira dzeNharira, and Chiwoniso Maraire. Their rhythms, combined with traditional sounds like Mhande and Chinyambera, shaped Darlington’s unique ability to merge African authenticity with modern versatility. “They taught me to be proud of myself as an African-Zimbabwean,” he shared with The Movement.
An accomplished musician, Darlington’s versatility is one of his strongest suits. As a session musician, he doesn’t box himself into one genre. From the soulful tones of mbira-inspired tracks to the vibrant energy of reggae and Afrobeat, he’s comfortable playing it all. “I play any type of music,” he says, “and that adaptability allows me to work with diverse artists and audiences.”
Every artist has a defining moment, and for Darlington, it came when he played for Shashl at Unplugged Zimbabwe. “It was my first time performing with a well-known artist on such a big platform,” he recalls. The event not only marked a professional milestone but also gave him the confidence to pursue larger opportunities.
Since then, he’s graced notable stages like Oktoberfest Zimbabwe and the Kadoma Music Festival, collaborating with artists like Chengeto Brown, Guspy Warrior, and Ndunge Yut. “Each performance stands out because of the energy we bring as a team,” he says, emphasizing the collaborative nature of his work.
For Darlington, music is a way to connect and inspire. Whether through intricate bass solos or encouraging audience participation, he makes every performance interactive. “I’ll call people on stage, let them sing their favourite lines, or highlight a prominent bassline,” he explains. His dynamic stage presence keeps the energy alive and the audience engaged.
His approach to music is deeply personal. “Everyone connects to music differently,” he says, “but I want my audience to feel the music on a deeper level, to understand its message, and to apply it to their lives if it helps.”
Breaking into Zimbabwe’s competitive music industry hasn’t been without hurdles. From financial instability to lacking access to equipment, Darlington has faced his share of challenges. Yet, he’s persevered through consistent rehearsals and collaborations with fellow artists. “Meeting and working with others gives me the drive to keep going,” he says.
The future is bright for this session bass guitarist. While his current focus is on live performances and covers, Darlington hints at upcoming solo projects and plans to grow his brand. “Better performances and a bigger brand are what’s next,” he shares, brimming with ambition.
For bookers and fans, Darlington Nafitari offers versatility. His ability to adapt to any genre, combined with his deep-rooted connection to Zimbabwean culture, ensures that every performance is a celebration of sound, rhythm, and soul. As he continues to rise, Darlington is undoubtedly a name to watch in Zimbabwe’s music scene.
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