RISING musician Taku Splits is fast becoming one of the country’s promising new voices, blending Afro-soul, Afro-pop and hip-hop into a sound that connects with a wide range of listeners.
The Rusape-born artiste, formerly known as Splits Loui, says his journey began in high school, where his passion for music took root during school events and choir sessions.
“We banged desks in class to play beats and rap over the sound,” he recalled.
“Later, I started hanging around professional musicians and picked up a few skills from there.”
Although he says growing up in Rusape did not directly shape his sound, it helped him to build a solid foundation.
“It’s a small town where everyone knew everyone, so word about us spread easily,” he said.
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Recently, the artiste rebranded from Splits Loui to Taku Splits, a move he says reflects maturity and personal growth.
“I wanted a name that was more relatable, especially to my elders,” he explained.
“Incorporating my real name has always been my dream.”
Taku Splits’ track Life Yangu became a breakthrough moment when it went viral on TikTok, introducing his music to thousands of new fans.
“It’s the best thing that’s happened to me,” he said.
“Most people who love it don’t even know me and that’s special because it means they genuinely love the song.”
The artiste is working on the official Life Yangu music video in collaboration with BlackBox Entertainment, which he describes as “family pushing the work”.
Taku Splits draws inspiration from personal experience and observation.
“There’s a dash of both,” he said.
“I’ve gone through some of the things I write about and I’ve witnessed some of it too.”
As an independent artiste, he admits that the road has been bumpy but he remains focused and optimistic.
“Challenges exist, yes, but I’m the challenge that challenges fear,” he said confidently.
Known for producing and performing his own music, Taku Splits handles much of his creative process himself from creating melodies to mixing and mastering.
“Sometimes I come up with a melody and record myself, then upload to the distributor,” he said.
He cites both local and international artistes as influences, including the late Oliver Mtukudzi, System Tazvida, Alick Macheso, Jah Prayzah, Winky D and Takura, as well as Wizkid, Tekno, AKA, Chris Brown, Zahara and Lil Wayne.
Looking ahead, Taku Splits says fans can expect more visuals and live performances around Zimbabwe.
“It’s time for serious branding,” he said.
To young Zimbabweans aspiring to enter the music industry, his message is one of encouragement.
“Keep doing you, believe in your work and start now,” he said.
“Opportunities will meet you on the way fully prepared.”