South Africa-based Zimbabwean afro-fusion songstress ‘Shantel Mwana WeZimbabwe’ as she is popularly known in the music circles, has said she is fighting for women through her music.
The diva revealed in an interview with The Herald Arts that her advocacy was not much about empowerment or rights, but ill-treatment of women.
“Many musicians sing about praise on women or fighting for empowerment, but less focus on the poor treatment of women by men,” she said. “We need to preach the gospel with solutions on how best we can curb the issue of abuse on women. I am working on videos to promote the awareness.”
Shantel said she sang what she experienced.
“I am one of the many women and men who suffered, physical, verbal, financial, sexual and emotional abuse at the hands of their partners, husbands or wives,” she said. “I was depressed and I tried to soldier on, but ended up quitting my music. But with the help of ‘Dr’ Kutira who has been helping with counselling and pushing my music, I stand right and tall, competing with some of the local and regional musicians.”
Shantel, who has just released her new album entitled “Takazvizama”, said she wanted to communicate her message to all music fans.
“The album and title track speaks for itself,” she said. “My first album Makuwerere was much of a celebratory of woman in general. Music should communicate and I am happy how my music has managed to penetrate the market.”
Shantel said she was inspired by South African singer Makhadzi and Botswana’s Slizer.
She said her main challenges were lack of exposure and opportunities.
“It seems some promoters do not want to give us equal opportunities with male counterparts, same with also working with us,” she said. “Only a few good stakeholders come on board in a difficult time.
“We also call for promoters or relevant authorities to assist and always check on upcoming artistes on how they are working, this motivates and also put us on the spotlight.”
‘Dr’ Kennedy Kutira, who has worked with Shantel, said he has been working with both local and regional artistes.
“For musicians to grow, it is not only about their music, but they should take part in fellowship programmes, to boost their career,” he said. “I have been engaged with various artistes who I help build their career.”
Herald
