The title, Kidi-kaba, which translates to “a big chunk of meat,” is steeped in cultural significance, drawing inspiration from traditional gatherings. Explaining the concept behind the song, Leburu shared that: “In the society where I grew up and live, meat brings people together, and in every gathering, meat takes centre stage as it is liked by many people. When one goes without having had a good share of the serving of meat, it results in displeasure.” Produced at The Village Studios, Kidi-kaba showcases an array of talent. Charles Motsemme produced the single with assistance from Leroy Nyoni, while Swedish producers, Mikael Rosen, and Alejandro Vega also contributed.
The song’s instrumentation was brought to life by Dingalo Mpolaise on percussion, Lereko Lesole on bass guitar, and Tabona Maseko on electric guitar. An intriguing aspect of Kidi-kaba is Leburu’s use of panpipes in place of traditional keyboards and acoustic drums. His fascination with the panpipes began in 1992, during a junior secondary school design and technology exhibition, where he purchased the instrument. Although his interest in the panpipes faded over the years, his mother encouraged him to revisit the instrument for this project. “She reminded me of how much I used to enjoy playing it and thought it would add something special to the song,” Leburu said. The single also features contributions from an international panpipes artist from Chile, South America. This collaboration highlights Leburu’s willingness to merge global influences with local traditions, a theme he plans to expand upon in his upcoming album.
The full album, expected in August 2025, will feature a mix of international and local artists to create a diverse and rich listening experience. While fans eagerly await the album, Leburu continues to perform at small gatherings and corporate events. Balancing his music career with his work as a mechanical engineer, Leburu sees the performances as an opportunity to connect with audiences in intimate settings. Despite his engineering background, music has always been an integral part of his life. Leburu’s ability to weave personal and cultural stories into his music sets him apart as an artist deeply rooted in his heritage while embracing modern expressions.
Kidi-kaba serves as a reminder of the unifying power of music and culture, offering listeners a glimpse into Leburu’s world of creativity and tradition. With the promise of a full album on the horizon, his return to the music scene is sure to leave a lasting impression. As Leburu works towards his next milestone, his journey remains a testament to the power of passion and perseverance in keeping cultural narratives alive through music.
