Liberty Dube
Entertainment Correspondent
MUTARE-BORN artiste and actress, Memory “Yaya Saru” Chinamasa, is using her latest single — “Muitiro Wenyu (Your Ways”) — to explore faith, while maintaining her connection with the Manyika culture.
Released last week, the Afro-fusion and Afro-soul song examines the struggle to understand God’s ways, and the importance of remaining hopeful, and trusting despite life’s unanswered questions.
Yaya Saru, who is now based in Harare, said her music embraces contemporary influences, while retaining Zimbabwean identity through language, rhythm, melody and storytelling.
She described her sound as Zimbarock Muzik, drawing on traditional and modern influences, with her Manyika accent and vocal delivery forming part of her artistic identity.
In an interview, she said music offer room for experimentation and personal growth without requiring her to abandon her cultural background.
“It has been an exciting and fulfilling journey because I have always believed that music should be a space for exploration, growth and self-expression.
“I have never wanted to confine myself to one particular sound or artistic identity. I enjoy experimenting with different genres, embracing new influences and discovering fresh ways of communicating through music while remaining true to who I am and where I come from.
“Every project comes with its own learning experience and presents an opportunity to challenge myself creatively, sharpen my craft and discover something new about my artistry.
“That is what keeps me inspired to continue pushing boundaries. I want to create music that speaks to different generations, connects with people from diverse backgrounds and remains relevant beyond the moment of its release,” she said, adding that preserving her Manyika identity remained central to her work.
“However, as much as I embrace contemporary sounds and global musical influences, I am equally passionate about preserving my cultural identity. My Manyika roots, language, accent and storytelling are an important part of who I am as an artiste.
“I want people to listen to my music and recognise that it is Zimbabwean, even when the production carries modern influences. For me, it is about striking that balance between embracing the future and celebrating our roots,” she said.
Her musical journey date back to 1997, when she was 15, and wanted to join Ragga Manyika group, Assegai Crew as a singer. However, her father opposed the move.
She began performing with different groups and as a solo artiste at entertainment venues in Mutare around 2011.
In 2012, she released her debut single, “Umtimawako”, followed by “Maputseni”, produced by Clive “Mono” Mukundu.
She later collaborated with Jah Prayzah on “Chengetedza Hupenyu”, expanding her presence on the local music scene.
In 2017, she released “Ndinokusuwa” in collaboration with Oskid.
Other releases, including “Baya”, added to her catalogue, while her 2021 track “Jongwe Rangu” helped raise her profile.
Her appearances on ZBC musical programmes and Classic 263, also introduced her music to wider audiences.
Beyond music, Yaya Saru has built a following through social media skits, short dramas and comedy.
Her experience working with the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) has also contributed to her artistic development.
She holds a degree in Music Business, Musicology and Technology from Midlands State University.
More than three years ago, she released her debut extended play (EP), “Sounds from My Motherland”, which further explored Zimbabwean experiences through music.
The EP features “Rudo”, “Tsitsi”, “Runyararo”, “Handikusiye”, “Slay Queen”, “Reuben” and “Ndibvumbamirei”.
Through “Rudo”, “Tsitsi” and “Runyararo”, she encourages love, celebrates other people’s achievements and challenges jealousy.
“Reuben” explores the emotions of a lover longing for a partner.
On Valentine’s Day earlier this year, she released “Ndokumirira”, a love ballad that added to her growing catalogue.
Yaya Saru blends modern sounds with Manyika roots
