Nama winner Kinah The Music drops EP, ‘Harare to the Capital’

RENOWNED guitarist, songwriter and 2024 National Arts Merit Awards (Nama) “Outstanding Newcomer” Shekinah Nathan Ndlovu, popularly known as Kinah The Music, has released a new project, an EP titled Harare to the Capital.

The project reaffirms Kinah’s versatility, positioning him as more than a backing instrumentalist, but a creative force in his own right. The EP explores themes of love, everyday struggles, emotional healing and the importance of choosing peace over toxic environments.

The title Harare to the Capital carries a deliberate dual meaning, offering a commentary on Zimbabwe’s creative geography and the imbalance between its cultural hubs.
“I selected the name Harare to the Capital specifically because of the influence Harare music has over the largest population in Zimbabwe. ‘The Capital’ in this instance stands for Bulawayo, as this is the hub of creativity but with very little opportunity,” Kinah explained.

Through this framing, Kinah positions Bulawayo as an under-recognised creative powerhouse, challenging traditional perceptions of influence within the country’s music industry.
The tracklist includes Handidi, which explores the pressures of modern work life and the struggle to balance ambition with love and presence; Will It Get Better, a reflective piece that questions the realities faced by ordinary workers while holding onto hope; and Siya Ayende, a self-preservation anthem encouraging listeners to walk away from toxic relationships and emotional burdens.

Born 28 years ago, Kinah began his musical journey at the age of 11 and picked up the guitar in 2017, quickly rising to prominence as one of Zimbabwe’s most in-demand session guitarists. Before his solo breakthrough in 2021 with the Ryan Synth-produced single Uncertainty, he performed alongside some of the country’s most respected artistes, including Selmor Mtukudzi, Asaph, Vuyo Brown, Sandra Ndebele, Jeys Marabini, Tariro NeGitare, and Ilanga’s Busi Ncube. His work also extended to international acts such as Shungudzo and Holly Rey.

His studio credentials are equally impressive, having collaborated with producers such as Murphy Cubic, Oskid Productions, Ryan Synth, Just Percy and international electronic producer Nitefreak. As a session musician, he has also performed on major stages including the Coca-Cola Unplugged Festival, Jacaranda Festival, Rock The River Festival, Victoria Falls Carnival, Intwasa Arts Festival and the UN Virtual Concert.

Following his transition into a solo career, Kinah continued to build momentum with his debut EP Music and My Feelings, as well as singles such as Do It Again (with Just Percy) and Ran Out of Time, produced by Sparks 45. His performances at events such as Sanganai/Hlanganani, Soul Cook Out and the Bulawayo Arts Festival further cemented his growing reputation, culminating in his 2024 Nama win and recognition as one of Zimbabwe’s key emerging music voices. – Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu