Watch out for Simz

If you enjoy South African Afro-Soul singer, Sjava’s music, then you will definitely love the sound of Bulawayo’s Simphiwe Masuku aka ‘Simz’.

Raised between the Nkulumane suburb in Bulawayo and his rural home in Matopo, the 25-year-old singer seems to be rising at his own pace while using his daily experiences as the motivation behind his songs.

Whether sounding like Sjava is a deliberate imitation or a natural coincidence, the young man possesses some unique talent and brings something different to Bulawayo’s music table.

In an interview, Simz said his music career has its background in the Seventh Day Adventist Church with his journey having taken shape in 2017 when he joined an acoustic band.

“My story is a very similar one. My parents had different aspirations regarding what I was supposed to become, but I developed an interest in singing at a very young age. My elder sister, Gugu was a choir leader in high school and I so much admired that.

“I took part in a capella choirs at church and that’s how I was able to develop confidence and creativity in songwriting.

“In some groups, I was the lead singer, and in 2017, I became part of a four-man acoustic band called the Ethnic Feeling, where I was the lead singer,” Simz said.

Ethnic Feeling, Simz said played at local events and at some point, recorded an album titled Rooted which, however, failed to make it to digital stores.

As a solo artiste, Simz has released two seven-track EPs which are available on digital streaming platforms.

“I’ve performed at several places including the Intwasa Arts Festival and at private events.

“My music is also found on digital streaming platforms such as Spotify, and YouTube. So far, I have 14 tracks from my two EPs and a few projects underway.

“My music is mostly in the IsiNdebele and messages are embedded in metaphors and proverbs.

“Most of the songs are on life issues and daily challenges such as gender-based violence and depression, especially in men since society pays more attention to the girl child and women issues,” he said.

Simz said he draws his strength and motivation from his mother, Peggy Masuku, who has been making headlines on both local and international news for winning the My Beautiful Home competition in the Matobo district last year. She continues exhibiting her talent in traditional hut painting.

Apart from music, Simz is a broadcaster working for the recently licensed Matobo radio station, Bayethe FM. He is also a computer wizard and a music producer.