SONGS From A Room (SofarSounds), a global music events start-up known for its intimate and
community-based shows, made its highly anticipated debut in Zimbabwe last year. The event, held
in Harare, showcased a lineup of rising independent artists, providing music enthusiasts with a
unique and immersive live music experience.
Originating from a humble home concert in London over 15 years ago, Sofar Sounds has grown into
a global community of music curators, spanning more than 450 cities worldwide. The innovative
company aims to revolutionize the traditional live event experience by fostering a stronger
connection between attendees and artists.
Representing the Harare chapter of Sofar Sounds is the multi-faceted creative Khumbulani Muleya.
The Sofar Sounds concert in Harare kicked off with a captivating performance by the Glenview-based
Tru Bantu Tribe. The Afro Jazz in Mbira band treated the audience to an enchanting blend of
rhythmic melodies and soulful vocals. Their set included songs like ; "Mbirimo" "Dzimwe nguva" and
"Huyayi mununure". Comprised of lead vocalist and Mbira player Whatmore Muchuwe, bassist
Takudzwa Mhindu, and drummer Nigel Madzinga, Tru Bantu Tribe has previously collaborated with
renowned local musician Leonard Zhakata, adding to their musical prowess.
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Following Tru Bantu Tribe's mesmerising performance, the spotlight turned to the talented Mbira
musician Nasibo. She graced the stage with a solo act, captivating the audience with the melodic
sounds of the Mbira instrument and her powerful vocal range. Nasibo's talent has not gone
unnoticed, as she previously shared the stage with legendary Senegalese singer Youssou N'Dour in a
multinational musical collaboration in Brussels. Her performance at the concert in Harare was a
testament to her artistry and captivated the hearts of those in attendance. Earlier this year, she
performed in Tanzania at the Sauti Za Busara music festival.
Closing the concert with an incredible display of Afro-acoustic melodies was the four-piece band
Gwevedzi. Their smooth, easy-listening tunes, including songs like "Ndiringe" and "Ndinouya" from
their album Nhungo, provided the perfect finale to the event. Gwevedzi has been making waves in
the Zimbabwean music scene and had the opportunity to perform at the prestigious Stanbic Bank
Jacaranda Music Festival alongside acclaimed artists such as Bongo Maffin, Zakes Bantwini, and
African Storm. For performing at the Sofar debut concert the band was this year shortlisted for an
artist residency in London hosted by Sofar Sounds.
The organisers of the event expressed their enthusiasm for the Sofar Sounds model, highlighting its
potential to empower local musicians and create genuine connections between artists and their
audiences. By reimagining the live event experience and providing a platform for emerging talent,
the concept is paving the way for musicians to build both local and global followings.
Organisers are determined to expand this unique model throughout Zimbabwe. By offering music
enthusiasts an intimate environment with fewer disruptions, Sofar Sounds aims to foster a deeper
appreciation for music while supporting the growth of the local music scene.
