Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma [email protected]
AFTER months away from the spotlight, Matabeleland South musician Master Zhoe is ready to make his presence felt again.
For some artistes, disappearing from the public eye can signal uncertainty. For Master Zhoe, however, it was a period of reflection, learning and preparation. While fans may have wondered where he had gone, the Bulawayo-based musician was quietly working behind the scenes, refining his sound, strengthening his team and preparing for a comeback he hopes will take his career to the next level.
That comeback begins today with the release of Ngizama, a new single featuring one of the region’s most talked-about artistes, Fab G Mshanakagogo, whose hit song Imali Yesigweja has made him a fan favourite across Matabeleland.
Master Zhoe, known for blending Afro-pop, dancehall and indigenous sounds, believes the new track marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in his musical journey.
“I have been quiet on the surface, but I haven’t stopped working. I have been in the studio writing, producing, and really levelling up my sound. I also took time to study the business side, build my team, and get my catalogue and releases ready the right way.
“I didn’t want to just drop music to drop music. I wanted to come back with something that actually moves people, and that’s exactly what’s coming next,” said Master Zhoe.
His manager, Glynnis Maggie Manuel, said the break was intentional and focused on building a stronger foundation for the brand rather than rushing to release music.
The result is Ngizama, a song Master Zhoe believes will resonate with many young people chasing their dreams despite obstacles and setbacks.
“The track is called Ngizama and features man of the moment Fab G Mshanakagogo, a sign that I am eager to come back stronger, luring more people to my brand,” he said.
The song was born during a period of personal reflection and carries a message of self-belief and growth.
“The inspiration for the track came after I wrote it during that quiet period when I was reflecting on growth. It’s about outgrowing old circles and betting on yourself. I was tired of waiting for opportunities, so I decided to create them,” said Master Zhoe.
Music industry observers believe the song has the potential to become a crowd favourite thanks to its uplifting message and danceable rhythm. The collaboration with Fab G Mshanakagogo is also expected to help the track reach a wider audience throughout Matabeleland South and beyond.
But Ngizama is only the beginning.
Master Zhoe revealed that fans can expect more music in the coming months, with several singles lined up ahead of the release of a full studio album.
“I have several singles dropping very soon and a whole album to release after, with collaborations I did with a couple of very talented Zimbabwean artistes to be disclosed soon,” he said.
While he is keeping the identities of some collaborators under wraps for now, he said the project will showcase different sides of his artistry. The album will include both Ndebele and English songs, reflecting his roots in Matabeleland while also speaking to a national audience.
“I want this to be the album that reintroduces me not just as an artist, but as someone with something to show.
“The goal is to get it on radio, get people dancing, but also have them replay the lyrics,” said Master Zhoe.
More than entertainment, he wants the album to speak directly to young people trying to navigate life’s challenges, pursue opportunities and remain relevant in an increasingly competitive world.
The musician is also preparing to return to the stage, where he first built a loyal following through community shows, school tours and regional events across Matabeleland South.
“Live performance is where I connect with people the most, and that’s what made me a fan favourite in the first place. I took time away to work on new music and tighten the show, because I didn’t want to come back doing the same thing,” he said.
Plans are already underway for performances in Bulawayo and Gwanda before possible tours to South Africa and Botswana, where he has steadily built a fan base.
According to his team, the goal is to give audiences more than just music by combining energetic performances with meaningful storytelling.
Master Zhoe has also been paying close attention to changes in the music industry, particularly the rise of digital technology and artificial intelligence.
“The digital age has completely changed the game. Distribution, marketing, fan engagement, it’s all online now. I haven’t incorporated AI directly into my music yet, because for me music is about human emotion and lived experience, but I’m definitely watching it and learning,” he said.
While he sees value in new technology, he is cautious about relying on it too heavily.
“I think AI is amazing for the business side, where there are mixing suggestions and content creation. It can help us be more consistent. But I’m cautious about AI replacing real artists. Fans connect to real stories. No algorithm can replace a live show where everyone is enjoying music. So for me, AI is a tool in the studio and in marketing. But the heart of the music will always be human.”
It is this balance between embracing innovation and staying true to authentic storytelling that he believes will set him apart in a crowded industry.
His return also comes at a time when artistes from Matabeleland South are increasingly pushing for greater national recognition. With the region producing several breakout talents in recent years, Master Zhoe’s comeback adds fresh momentum to efforts to shine a spotlight on local talent.
For his supporters across Beitbridge, Gwanda, Plumtree and beyond, today’s release is more than just a new song. It is the beginning of a fresh chapter for an artiste who chose patience and preparation over rushing back into the spotlight.
As Master Zhoe himself puts it: “I took the time to grow, to learn, and to build. Now it’s time to share that growth with the people who supported me from day one.”
With a new single out today, more releases on the horizon, a full album in the pipeline and live performances being planned, Master Zhoe is stepping back onto the scene with renewed confidence and a clear message: he never stopped working, he was simply preparing for a bigger return.
