Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
She has touched the hearts of millions with her wondrous voice, powerful compositions and refreshingly well-choreographed acts on stage. Singing from personal experiences, social commentary, and everyday life, United Kingdom-based diva Cynthia Mare (CM) has been creating soothing songs that offer renewed hope to those in despair.
The death of her mother in 2011 was a turning point for her, prompting a return home to find closure.
In 2015, she left for the UK, and now she is back home a decade later. Her absence was strongly felt during her ten-year hiatus, during which new stars were born.
She is not returning home empty-handed but with a new album titled “The Voice Reborn”, which is set to be launched at the Zimbabwe German Society in Harare on October 1.
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub’s Trust Khosa (TK) has been consistently checking on the diva’s whereabouts, and she still holds Zimbabwe close to her heart.
She vividly remembers all the memories she has made at home — the tears shed and, of course, the laughter.
Many of these memories were created both locally and overseas, where she has become a multiple award winner, including at the Zimas.
After a long break from the spotlight to recharge her vocal batteries, the award-winning songstress is back home in Zimbabwe, ready to reignite her musical journey. She sat down to answer 10 quick-fire questions about her return, her growth and her outlook on Zimbabwean music. Read on . . .
TK: How do you feel about being reunited with your fans after 10 years away from the spotlight?
CM: I’m very happy, very excited. It feels like the right time — almost like a spiritual calling to return to music. I didn’t plan it this way, but everything has aligned perfectly. I’m really looking forward to my first show.
TK: What have you missed during the decade-long period away from home?
CM: I have missed Zimbabwe so much. It has a very special place in my heart. I also missed singing and music in general — the energy of performing and creating.
The most I did during that time was sing at home and occasionally compose new songs.
TK: Now that you are back for a couple of years, how do you plan to engage your fans in person?
CM: My plan is to step back into the music industry fully — hold live shows, interviews, collaborations. I want people to know I’m back, and I can’t wait to meet fans again. I feel very ready to reconnect.
TK: Musically, what can you say about the strides you’ve made in the past decade?
CM: Honestly, I took a very long break from music, so I can’t say I made strides in that period. But that’s why I’m here now — to start afresh and create new milestones.
TK: In terms of evolution, how have you transformed from the Cynthia Mare we knew 10 years ago to the current version of yourself?
CM: Well, 10 years means growth. I’m older and hopefully wiser. But in many ways, I’m still the same bubbly, loud and curious person who loves people and loves learning.
What has changed is that I’ve gained new life skills and perspectives that I’m ready to channel into this new chapter.
TK: What has kept you busy in the United Kingdom for the past decade?
CM: I went back into nursing, which kept me grounded. Outside work, it was all about family and enjoying a simple life — cooking, cleaning, smiling and spending time with loved ones. It was fulfilling in its own way.
TK: What can you say about the developments that took place in the local music landscape during your absence?
CM: The industry has really bloomed. The recording quality has improved and the talent is incredible. Despite the challenges, artistes have pushed hard and the results are amazing. I’ve been enjoying so much of the new music — the new generation of artistes is killing it.”
TK: As a mentor and role model, what piece of advice do you have for young women who have entered the music industry?
CM: My biggest advice is: be yourself. Find out who you are and put that into your music. Don’t try to copy anyone. Believe in yourself and your journey.
TK: From your experience, what can you say about the impact Zimbabwean music has made globally in the past decade?
CM: Zim music is definitely making waves internationally. Our biggest artistes are being heard across the globe and travelling with their sound. It’s beautiful to see.
TK: Lastly, can you name 10 young Zim artistes that you think are doing well locally, regionally and internationally?
CM: Recently, I attended Nisha’s album launch, and I was so impressed. She’s young, talented and already making an international footprint. With continued support for our local talent, the sky’s the limit for Zimbabwean music.
NB: Mare is a multitalented diva who has been in the game for years. She will be remembered for popular hits like “Zuva Rimwe” — Dai Zvaibvira,” a dedication to her late mother, “Pfugama Unamate,” and “Hatina Musha Panyika,” among others. A nurse by profession, Mare’s undying love for music continues to call loudly and clearly.
