derick.khumalo
Langelihle Dube
[email protected]
Bulawayo-born artist and producer Kiid Angel, born Wendell Lipepe, is preparing to release his second EP, “Sunsets & Heartbreaks”, a project exploring men’s mental health, heartbreak, healing and emotional resilience.
Through the seven-track body of work, Kiid Angel, a songwriter, keyboardist and founder of Angelou’s Jew Records hopes to create a safe space for conversations around emotions, vulnerability and the silent struggles many men face while trying to live up to society’s expectations.
Kiid Angel who blends genres such as Afro-beat, Amapiano, Hip-Hop, Trap and R&B, has steadily carved a name for himself as one of Zimbabwe’s emerging multi-talented musicians. His journey has been marked by four continental music award nominations and a growing presence across digital streaming platforms.
However, with Sunsets & Heartbreaks, the artiste says the focus is not on achievements, but on telling stories that resonate with people who often suffer quietly.
“Throughout the day, many men wear masks. They’re expected to be providers, protectors and to always have everything under control. But when the sun sets, the performance ends. The mask comes off, and that’s when the real emotions surface,” he said.
For Kiid Angel, the heartbreak referenced in the title goes beyond romantic relationships.
“The heartbreaks I’m talking about aren’t just about love. They’re the silent battles men carry every day. We grew up hearing things like ‘Man up’, ‘Men don’t cry’ and ‘Speaking out is a sign of weakness.’ Those expectations have taught many men to suffer in silence,” he said.
The idea behind the project was born from his own reflections on the challenges men face.
“I kept asking myself one question: if men are expected to be providers, then who provides for them? Who do they turn to when they need someone to lean on? I realised that many men are silently breaking while trying to stay strong for everyone else.”
The EP, which took a year and a half to complete, represents a defining moment in Kiid Angel’s artistic journey, as he believes he has discovered a sound that fully represents him. While his previous releases explored different musical styles, Sunsets & Heartbreaks combines contemporary African rhythms with honest storytelling, refined production and emotionally charged songwriting.
As both the producer and performer behind the project, Kiid Angel says staying authentic was more important than following popular trends.
“I wanted every song to be something people could enjoy, but I never wanted entertainment to overshadow the purpose behind the music. I believe authenticity connects with people more than simply chasing trends,” he said.
One of the EP’s tracks, “Rejects”, was inspired by a painful personal experience. The song was written after what was meant to be a relationship counselling session with a pastor.
“I walked away feeling unheard. I thought because he was also a man, he might understand where I was coming from. Instead, I accepted the outcome with a heavy heart and a smile on my face. On my way home I wrote the lyrics, produced the instrumental and poured every emotion into the song,” he said.
Another track, “Retsepile Wena Fela”, takes the form of a prayer from someone questioning whether God truly understands their struggles. Kiid Angel said the song reflects moments in his own life when he questioned whether the sacrifices, he made while growing up, including dedicating much of his childhood to church and academics, had been recognised.
Beyond sharing his own experiences, the artiste hopes the EP encourages listeners to change the way they view vulnerability.
“Speaking up isn’t weakness; it’s courage. Giving men a safe space to speak, heal and be understood doesn’t make them less of a man. It makes them healthier fathers, brothers, husbands, sons and friends.”
The project also provides a platform for emerging musicians, with Kiid Angel deliberately featuring up-and-coming artistes he believes deserve more recognition.
“I believe there are many hidden gems waiting to be discovered, and I wanted this project to become a platform where they could showcase their gifts.”
His passion for developing talent extends through Angelou’s Jew Records, which he envisions as a nurturing space for young creatives.
“I want the label to become a home for up-and-coming artistes. There are many talented musicians who simply need guidance, education and opportunities.”
Fans can expect accompanying music videos for songs from the EP, while tracks from Sunsets & Heartbreaks will be previewed during the August Baby Fest 4th edition, an event Kiid Angel is hosting alongside Thriller Entertainment Company and DJ Offswag.
The event aims to promote unity while creating opportunities for emerging artistes to showcase their talents.
