Online Reporter
Joshua Muswere
The need to be recognised regionally and internationally ignited the career of Mugove Nevanji, a talented singer, songwriter and contemporary dancer better known as Shellah.
The artiste has begun to reap the rewards of his patience, strategic planning and dedication despite facing numerous hurdles along the way.
In 2018, Shellah announced his arrival on the music scene with his four-track Extended Play (EP) titled “I’m Shellah Black.”
However, the 30-year-old has encountered financial constraints that have made pursuing his dream a challenge.
“After releasing the ‘Nerudo’ album, I had to shelve my music career as I had exhausted my funds,” he explained.
“I earned nothing from my first EP because I failed to market the project, which led me to take a five-year hiatus from music.”
During the Covid-19 pandemic, Shellah decided to pursue a Degree in Electrical Engineering to create a stable source of income while still following his passion.
His music blends Afro-beat, jiti, and sungura, thereby enriching the already diverse music landscape in Zimbabwe.
Growing up in a religious family as a member of the United Methodist Church fostered Shellah’s singing ability as he was part of the church’s praise and worship team.
“In 2015, I began honing my songwriting skills and started recording in 2016. This is when I met my first producers, Nyasha Timbe and Mr Noxa,” Shellah recalled.
To date, Shellah has released two projects, each with different outcomes, but he maintains a positive outlook.
A third project is expected before the end of the first quarter of this year.
His single ‘Urigamba’ has remained on Power FM Zimbabwe’s Top 40 charts for two consecutive weeks.
Having mastered the art of resilience, Shellah serves as an inspiration and motivation for emerging and aspiring artists.
“My main aim is to spread positive messages to everyone, promote love, and eradicate hate,” he said.
“My advice to upcoming artists is to exercise patience and embrace hard work.”
Born and raised in Kambuzuma, Harare, the Afro-fusion musician attended Wadzanai Primary School and Kambuzuma 1 High School.
