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Simon Mutambi is a renowned Zimbabwean sungura artist, widely regarded as one of the most consistent performers in the genre today. Born on 29 September 1983 in Featherstone, he has grown into a key figure in Zimbabwean music as both a skilled bassist and the leader of the Cobra Kings. As of 2026, Simon Mutambi is 42 years old. (1)

Biography Profile

Full Name: Simon Mutambi

Birth Place: Featherstone, Mashonaland East Province

Birthday: 29 September 1983 (Age - 42)

Occupation: Sungura Artist, Farmer

Spouse: 1 wife (name unknown)

Children: 2

Nationality: Zimbabwean

Early Life and Inspiration

Mutambi grew up in rural Featherstone, where he developed a deep appreciation for sungura music. He drew inspiration from iconic artists such as Alick Macheso, Nicholas Zakaria, and Somandla Ndebele. (2)

He began his musical journey working alongside Leeroy Lunga, often known as “Kamusena.” Determined to sharpen his craft, Mutambi later trained under Nicholas Zakaria, famously nicknamed the “Senior Lecturer,” where he refined his guitar and bass techniques.

Musical Career of Simon Mutambi

Mutambi reached a turning point in 2009 when he formed his band, Cobra Kings, and released his debut album Ko Zvinotyisei. This marked the beginning of a steady and disciplined recording career. By 2024, he had released 12 studio albums, solidifying his reputation for consistency. (3)

Musical style and achievements

Renowned for his “talking guitar” technique, Mutambi’s sound blends traditional sungura rhythms with contemporary social themes. His disciplined work ethic and relatable storytelling earned him widespread appeal. Songs like “Chembere Yako,” “Chimbomira,” and “Upenyu Ivhiri” have enjoyed heavy radio rotation. He became the first sungura artist to perform at the Harare International Festival of the Arts in 2007 and has consistently featured in national music charts. (4)(9)

Recent projects and influence

His 13th studio album, Yadeuka Yadeuka (2025), recorded at Trutone Studios and mastered by Gibson Makumbe, includes collaborations with Nicholas Zakaria and Gift Amuli. The album’s success reinforced his position among a new generation of sungura innovators such as Mark Ngwazi and Peter Moyo. Mutambi continues to advocate for artistic entrepreneurship, urging musicians to diversify income streams through farming and technology. (5)

Key Albums include:

1. Ko Zvinotyisei (2009)
2. Zvine Simba (2010)
3. Zviri Pasi Pedenga (2016)
4. Hazvipere Mushe (2019)
5. Saka Uchaita Sei? (2022)
6. Uchataura Zvese (2022)
7. Tiri Pamutsetse (2024), his 12th album, launched in Beatrice (6)
8. Yadeuka Yadeuka (2025) (13th Album)

Personal Life of Simon Mutambi

Simon is married to his wife and have got two children together, a boy and a girl. In May 2024, during the launch of the album Tiri Pamutsetse, his son performed alongside him, reinforcing the “like father like son” theme. His late father, Moses Mutambi, passed away on 27 February 2023 at the age of 97. Simon has credited his father with teaching him hard work and principles. (7, 8)

His mother, Mai Sarah, is also close to him and has even performed emotional tributes alongside him. His younger brother, Naison, was instrumental in his early musical career.

Impact and Philosophy

Mutambi has earned praise for his mature songwriting and meaningful social commentary. His music often explores themes of resilience, relationships, family, and marriage, resonating strongly with everyday listeners.

Through discipline and consistency, he has built a sustainable career in music, enabling him to invest in his own instruments and property—an achievement that reflects both his work ethic and his long-term vision in the industry. (9)

Outlook

Balancing music with farming in Beatrice and Chivhu, Mutambi embodies the self-reliant artist. His “Smart Sungura” identity—stylish, disciplined, and socially conscious—has helped bridge generations, keeping sungura vibrant in Zimbabwe’s evolving musical landscape. (4)