Online Reporter
Showbiz Reporter
Ahead of her highly-anticipated album launch in Harare this Saturday, Feli Nandi, affectionately known as “mskana wemarokwe marefu” (the girl with long dresses), has released visuals for her song “Muranda” to whet fans’ appetites.
Two hours after its release, the love song had already surpassed 6 000 views and was ranked 29th on the trending videos chart. However, many fans feel the visuals – just over two minutes long – are too short.
The Mubayei, Mufudzi Wangu, and Unotyei hit-maker will launch her latest album, Ndisiyei, at 7 Arts Theatre. The eight-track album follows her debut offering, Izwi.
In a previous interview, Feli’s manager, Connie Mazanhi, described Ndisiyei as deeply personal, drawing inspiration from real-life events and themes such as death and suicide.
“The album, available from March 22 on all digital platforms, experiments with new sounds and techniques,” Mazanhi said.
While she remained tight-lipped about featured artistes, Feli hinted at a collaboration with Gemma Griffiths.
Speaking on one of the tracks, Ndega Ndada, during a recent radio interview, Feli revealed: “Comic Pastor wrote that song as he’s one of the people pushing me to record music that will make people dance. So we wrote this song together.”
Feli, who has worked with top musicians like Freeman and Jah Prayzah, expressed her desire to collaborate with Alick Macheso in the future.
On the artistes she is currently vibing to, she singled out Oriyano’s track Areka as a favourite.
To up-and-coming female musicians, Feli had this advice: “Go for it! Get into the studio and record that first song. Nowadays, it’s even easier – just go on TikTok and let the world hear that voice. Don’t be shy!”
Beyond music, Feli Nandi is known for her distinct ethnic-inspired fashion sense. She revealed that her love for elegant, flowing dresses stems from a childhood dream.
“When I was growing up, I always wanted to be a princess, so I loved big, fancy dresses. That’s the inspiration behind our style at Feli Nandi Apparel,” she said.
With a growing fan base both locally and internationally, Mazanhi confirmed that Feli Nandi is planning a nationwide tour.
Feli’s musical journey began in 2018 as a backing vocalist for Mbeu and the Mhodzi Tribe, where she honed her craft before launching her solo career in 2020. Her collaboration with Trevor Dongo on Mufudzi WeMombe marked a turning point in her career, propelling her into the limelight.
Influenced by Zimbabwean music legends such as Oliver Mtukudzi, Thomas Mapfumo, and Chiwoniso Maraire, Feli Nandi continues to blend traditional and contemporary sounds, solidifying her place as one of the country’s most exciting artists.
