Mthabisi Tshuma [email protected]
VICTORIA FALLS songstress Cingi is turning her attention to the studio, believing that the time has come to build on her growing reputation as a live performer by releasing her debut extended play (EP).
The artiste has been making waves on Zimbabwe’s music scene, performing at some of the country’s most sought-after festivals. Her latest appearance was at the Shoko Festival, where she impressed audiences during the opening night.
Curated by Sofar Harare, the event brought together Vicky Soulful from Zvishavane, Cingi from Victoria Falls and Harare-based artistes Kuda Rice and Bhanshee. Star FM was the broadcasting partner.
With her live performances gaining momentum, Cingi said she was now focused on developing her solo brand through a studio project that reflects her musical identity.
“I’m working on an EP which I hope to have done and dusted by March or so next year. I’m looking forward to that as well. This is going to be my first, thus I’m working flat out.
“The EP will be an authentic voice telling authentic tales, with a definite contemporary traditional feel. In my view and from the feedback on some of the songs I’ve performed live, it’s going to be fireworks and worth moving one’s feet for,” said Cingi.
The singer said she was pleased with how far she had come over the past five years, reflecting on her early days at the Shoko Festival and the growth she had experienced since then.
“I first performed at the Shoko Festival in 2021 under Voice2Rep, a Magamba Network and Accountability Lab project, alongside 10 other artistes from across Zimbabwe. That should have been their opening night as well.
“I was so shy, as that must have been one of my first live performances. The growth from then to now is just incredible,” said Cingi.
She said this year’s performance was a defining moment, allowing her to express herself more confidently and showcase the artiste she had become.
“This year, the atmosphere just screamed who Cingi is unmuted. I felt at home on that stage, expressing myself the way I know how, through music, dance and a bit of talking here and there.
“I did a whole set, and that was so encouraging and amazing for me because it meant someone thought I could handle all that. And I did! I’m honoured,” she said.
Cingi attributed much of her growth to performing with AbeLifa, a band based in her hometown of Victoria Falls, which she said had helped sharpen her skills and deepen her appreciation for live music.
“I’ve been growing as a live performer lately. I’m part of a band called AbeLifa back home in
Victoria Falls. Performing with these guys has been so eye-opening and has helped groom me as an artiste.
“I’ve always preferred live performances to studio setups. So, in all aspects, I’m growing,” said Cingi.
—@mthabisi_mthire
