Miriam Lishomwa Believes Mbira Music Will Be the Next Big Genre in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwean musician Miriam Lishomwa, popularly known in the arts circles as Amadhuve Sasha, is making waves in the music industry with her belief that mbira music is set to be the next big genre in the country. With her deep, reverberating voice that often evokes memories of legendary performers such as Mbuya Stellah Chiweshe, Sasha’s appeal and dominance in the world of mbira continues to rise.

Sasha, who boasts an impressive catalogue with nine tracks and the eight-track album Mutsindo, credits her passion for mbira music as central to her work. “The love of mbira music has taken centre stage in my career,” she explains, dispelling the colonial myth that traditional African music is evil. For Sasha, mbira and drums have always been integral in invoking African spirits and expressing the reality of black people’s lives.

“I am impressed with the direction our traditional music is taking. It is going to be the next big genre, mark my words. The greatest thing about it is that it promotes the spread of love among ourselves, while it also uplifts the spirit of Ubuntu,” Sasha shared in an interview with NewsDay Life & Style this week.

Her songs, including Machinda, Nehanda, Unplugged, Nzira DeMusango, and Dzaiva Shungu Dzangu, have been well-received, both locally and internationally. Sasha’s rise in popularity has not only attracted local fans but also garnered attention from international audiences and potential collaborators.

Her journey, however, hasn’t been without support. Sasha credits her collaborations with various local artists such as Peter Moyo, Progress Chipfumo, and Diana Sakange, which have contributed to her success. Moreover, international promoters and sponsors have expressed interest in working with her, with collaborative projects in the works.

Sasha’s love for music began during her Grade 5 days, when she sang in an apostolic church choir. She later joined a group called Talking Guitars, which specialized in cover versions of old hits. In 2015, she took a bold step towards a solo career, releasing an Afro-fusion track titled 2 Timer. However, it wasn’t long before she found her true calling in mbira music, inspired by Zimbabwean music icons such as Mbuya Stellah Chiweshe, Mbuya Madhuve, and Chioniso Maraire.

“My heart now belongs to mbira music,” Sasha says.

Her family has played a pivotal role in keeping her dreams alive. She particularly credits her husband, Peter Chiedzo, who also serves as the band manager, for being the cornerstone of their success. “He has been with me from day one, encouraging me and ensuring there is no retreat in this project. His vision is simple: ‘Mbira kuvanhu, Vanhu kumbira’ (Mbira music to the people and people to mbira music),” Sasha says, praising his unwavering support. Her band members and in-laws are also instrumental in her musical journey, all of whom share a collective desire to take mbira music to the global stage.

Looking ahead, Sasha plans to release more music this year, including eight or more video songs, with new tracks like Tinotenda and Mutonga already making waves at her live performances.

As Amadhuve Sasha continues to elevate mbira music, she firmly believes that this genre will soon enjoy the recognition and success it truly deserves, both locally and globally. With her passion, talent, and growing fanbase, it’s clear that Sasha’s role in Zimbabwe’s musical future will be one to watch.