Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
MUTARE-BRED diva Rutendo Jackie has made a bold move by settling in Harare, seeking to enhance her career in the capital, where numerous opportunities await.
The talented multi-lingual songbird will unveil her debut album today after years of releasing singles and EPs, all of which have garnered endorsements from the jazz community and mature music lovers alike.
Titled “Zindoga,” Jackie collaborated with eight producers on this album, which features 13 songs and seven collaborations.
To win the hearts of many, she beautifully fuses Afro-fusion with traditional Zimbabwean and folk influences — a sound that has notably been absent in recent years. She featured Chiweddar and Greffen Punkk in the opening track, “Bvumai.”
Jackie roped in Silent Nqo for the track “Usacheme,” affirming her true musicianship with the fiery lead guitarist.
She also combined forces with South Africa-based producer Mr Brown, Starr Healer and 3dkeys.
Additionally, she featured Peter Ngoreta on the track “Ka 2Dhora,” while Shane appeared on the track “Shanda.”
Another track of superior quality is called “Nipe Penzi,” featuring Sadimu.
Other songs that complete the album include “Mangwanani,” “Mwari Muri Zuva Rangu,” “Yahwe — Acoustic,” “Huku Ine Ronda,” “Gwenyambira,” and the title track “Zindoga.” For variety’s sake, she incorporated amapiano influences and fused Shona, Zulu and Swahili lyrics into most of the songs.
In an interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, Jackie expressed her hopes for a major breakthrough.
“I took my time working on this project, and I am convinced that I have produced timeless music that appeals to many people across the continent,” she pointed out. “Some of the songs are three years old, and I have been polishing them to ensure that they are rich in texture and appeal. This project was taxing, and I am glad that I have finally produced it. It will be available across all platforms.”
She also conceded that she invested heavily in this project, which she hopes will catapult her to acclaim.
“Being a female musician is not easy, as we are required to work twice as hard as our male counterparts.
“Coming up with an album is also not easy for female artistes who are required to invest a lot in their craft. I am convinced that this album will be embraced by many, and we want to use it as a launchpad toward penetrating the sub-region and, later, the continent at large,” she said.
Largely inspired by Busi Ncube, the late mbira duo of Mbuya Stella Chiweshe and Chiwoniso Maraire, Jackie is famed for investing heavily in her stage presence, wardrobe and choreography.
She takes her job seriously, and she anticipates bigger things after relocating to Harare.
“I always give it my all each time I take to the stage and even in the studio. I want to be remembered as one of Zimbabwe’s finest artistes in the years to come. Once I fulfil this wish, I will continue to work hard and ensure that I have an impact on the local music landscape,” she added.
Artiste manager and talent scout Diana Nheera, who is working closely with Jackie, applauded the diva for her creativity, professionalism, and vision.
“Rutendo is yet again set to bless audiences with a deeply grounded showcase of artistry. What continues to in-spire me is her unwavering attention to detail — the way she blends sacred lyrics with enchanting vocals and pairs it all with exquisite fashion and visuals that honour the true essence of music. This offering is no different. It is thoughtful, spiritual, and beautifully executed. I can’t wait for people to indulge in it, and the Hillcrest children are absolutely amazing. Their innocence brings a purity to the hymn that elevates it into something truly divine,” shared Nheera.
Jackie is one of the few divas who have been succeeding despite facing numerous challenges that hinder the progress and continuity of most female artists. With a supportive team, including Nheera and others in the back-ground, Jackie is destined for the stars.
