Tino’s passion for music shines through

Joburg East-based musician Tino Damba was born with a love for music.

He said his father introduced him to a keyboard when he was three years old, and that triggered his interest.

“I grew up in Zimbabwe and it made me very aware that to achieve, you had to conquer the territory you are in first. Zimbabwe taught me that,” Tino said.

He grew up surrounded by music.

“My father owned a sound and tech company, which made it easy to fall into the music thing. With music, I don’t categorise myself.

“I play mostly jazz music, but I wouldn’t consider myself a jazz musician. I feel like labelling one’s ability to create music is what limits creativity because your mind will always want to go in a particular direction instead of allowing yourself to be free and explore all music as a whole,” he said.

He admits that getting into the music industry was not easy.

“Nothing good that lasts comes easy. But once I was in, I took advantage of every opportunity I was given to make sure I establish myself well enough to remain relevant in all genres, as well as over time,” he said.

His parents gave the go-ahead for him to pursue his passion.

“My parents’ reaction to pursuing my dreams of entering the music industry was priceless. They did not want me to make music my career. Like most parents, they wanted me to have a fallback and I did not agree with it at all. Eventually, they gave me their blessing.

“At the moment I am working on my concept called The Paradigm Shift. I cannot really go into detail, but I believe that this year there will be a shift in the music game through this project.

“I want to have an impact in 2020, not only among my fellow musicians but also people who appreciate music. I believe that music has a greater message for healing, love and peace,” said Tino.

He advised anyone who wants to be in the music industry to never give up on their dreams.

“Believe in yourself and then find whatever resources you need to and plan your way into the game,” he said.