Soldier, Rhoda J in Nthawi remix

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n a collaboration with up-and-coming artist Rhoda J, ‘Soldier’ Lucius Banda has proved in a remix of his song Nthawi done, that his voice is still as powerful as ever.

In an interview, Rhoda J, real name Rhoda Jedegwa, said she asked ‘Soldier’ if they could rework his song Nthawi because it inspires her.

She said: “After going through my own tough times, I relate more to the song Nthawi. Time is indeed the best teacher. When we are going through tough times, only a few friends stand with us and this has been my life experience.”

Rhoda J said she initially wanted to rework on Banda’s Esther, but then changed her mind.

“The results of Nthawi remix have surpassed my expectations. Being new in the game, I was not sure how it would turn out, but I must say I have surprised myself,” she said.

The new musician said she was honoured to stand side by side with one of Malawi’s music heavyweights on the song.

“Lucius is such a legend yet full of humility and a great sense of humour. He told me that he wrote Nthawi while in a prison cell at a time when he was down. For me the story behind the song will always be the highlights of my experience with him,” she said.

In a separate interview, Banda said he was impressed with Rhoda J’s singing prowess.

“She asked for permission to redo the song and I accepted. This is what musicians should be doing as such projects make old songs sound better,” he said, adding that the practice is common in developed countries.

Banda opens the song with his signature line on collaborations “Yah man, it’s I and I ‘Soldier’ Lucius Banda, standing shoulder to shoulder with Rhoda J……”  before Rhoda J takes over leading the rest of the song.

The Nthawi remix takes a reggae beat and has Rhoda J in the lead while Banda comes in on the chorus. Their voices blend effortlessly and impressively.

The song has been produced by Pon G, real name Eugene Suwedi.