What does playing at Zimfests Zimbabwe Rocks concert mean to you and what can we expect from your set? Zimbabwe rocks means a lot to me this year because, it will be the first time I get to perform to such a large number of Zimbabweans. Although the prospect is slightly daunting I know it will be rather special. My set will be fun, fast and should put smiles on faces!
Are you familiar with some of the other acts performing at the show? And which other Zimbabwean artists are on your radar at the moment?
Yes Im familiar with most of the acts on the roster this year. Im looking really forward to seeing Chiwoniso, Mann Friday & Jusa in fact, Im really looking forward to seeing all the acts as it will be so far away from the gigs Im used to playing.
How did you convince your mother to let you pursue music and not medicine or law?
If Im honest, Id have to say it was very difficult. My mother didnt have it easy raising us. As an adult I can now see why she wanted me to do something academic but, at the time it felt as though she just didnt understand nor care what I wanted. I just dug my heels in and asked her to trust me and she eventually gave in. It took 10 years or so but she now really believes in me & supports me 100%
You will be releasing your new album in September, can you tell us a little bit about it?
Yes my debut album Saved will be available to buy in September. Its very hard to describe, I guess but the best way would be to think of it as 11 snapshots of my journey through adolescents to manhood. All my frustrations, highs, lows and observations documented through the language of music. The styles are varied but its very guitar heavy much like the music I enjoy most. There are some great pop songs on the record. I think I mostly proud of the fact that everything on this album came from my head, I was given the chance to produce it myself and the end result is something Im really proud of.
Eight months into 2010, what has been your highlight? What are you looking forward to in the rest of the year?
Ive been blessed with many opportunities this year. Ive supported the wonderful Noisettes, Macy Gray, Ellie Goulding to name but a few. Ive built a really solid fan base and I can only hope to improve on that in the months to come. Im really looking forward to playing in Malawi at the Vinspired Lake Of Stars Festival in October but most of all,
Im looking forward to playing with Mark Ronson. I have so many questions for him he may have to hold me back haha!
What advice do you have for aspiring Zimbabwean musicians?
Dream and keep dreaming because nothing is impossible if you work hard enough. Remember who you are and put that in to your music. Most of all, knowledge truly is power. If you know what youre talking about, youre already half way there.
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Post published in: Music