Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, [email protected]
BULAWAYO artistes are set to benefit from direct access to some of Zimbabwe’s top music producers after Zimdancehall star Ma9Nine opened Wazin Family Studios in Magwegwe North.
The newly launched recording facility aims to bridge the gap between artistes in Matabeleland and the country’s mainstream music industry by bringing acclaimed Harare-based producers such as Oskid and Tamuka to Bulawayo.
Named after Ma9Nine’s trademark “Wazin” chant, the studio is part of the musician’s broader vision to nurture talent and create opportunities for upcoming artistes from the region.
“Our vision is to bring renowned producers from Harare, including Oskid and Tamuka, to work from this studio. We want artistes from this region to have the same opportunities as anyone else in the country,” said Ma9Nine.
He said the studio’s mission is to uplift talent not only in Matabeleland, but across Zimbabwe by providing a platform where artistes can record high-quality music and connect with industry professionals.
“The main aim is to uplift talent in Matabeleland and nationwide. We want to work with and support every artiste, meaning everyone is welcome,” he said.
Ma9Nine said Wazin Family Studios has already set an ambitious target of producing at least five breakthrough artistes by the end of the year.
“Our goal is to put five exceptionally talented artistes on the map before the end of the year. The trademark of the studio is what we call Big Ndebele,” he said.
The initiative is expected to strengthen Bulawayo’s music industry by reducing the need for local artistes to travel to places like Harare and Johannesburg in search of established producers and recording opportunities.
Ma9Nine (born Hansel Ndlovu), a trailblazing musician from Bulawayo, is recognised as the first artiste to perform Zimdancehall in Ndebele. He is famous for hits like “Windi Womtshova” and “Chimuti” which features Enzo Ishall. A Bulawayo Arts Awards Outstanding Alternative Music award-winner, he started as an acapella and Afro-pop singer before shifting to Ndebele Zimdancehall.
— @mthabisi_mthire
