Zimbabwean-born, United States-based singer-songwriter and producer Sambiri is set to reconnect with home audiences when he headlines an exclusive Sofar Sounds Harare performance on July 25, promising an evening where soulful melodies, intimate storytelling and Zimbabwean heritage take centre stage.
The invitation-only concert, organized by Sofar Sounds Harare curator Khumbulani Muleya, will take place at a secret venue in Chisipite, with the exact location to be disclosed to ticket holders 36 hours before the performance. Branded "One Night with Sambiri: From New York City to Harare," the event is expected to draw a select audience seeking a unique live music experience.
Raised in Nyanga before relocating to the United States, Sambiri has built a distinctive sound that blends R&B, soul and African storytelling, with songs exploring love, hope, faith, family and identity.
"Zimbabwe has always remained at the heart of my music," Sambiri said.
"My songs explore love, hope, faith, family and identity which are the everyday experiences that connect us all. This Sofar Sounds Harare show is special because it's my third intimate solo performance and my first with Sofar in Zimbabwe. It feels like a continuation of the work I've been doing over the past few years and an opportunity to bring that experience home."
He described the performance as a deeply personal homecoming.
"There's something deeply meaningful about sharing these songs with the people and the place that shaped me," he said.
Backed by a quartet featuring bass, guitar and drums while he performs vocals and keyboards, Sambiri said audiences should expect an immersive musical experience were connection matters as much as performance.
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"Although there'll be a full band, the focus is still on creating a personal experience where people can really listen and connect. The set includes songs people may already know alongside newer music that reflects where I am today," he said.
"I'll also be sharing the stories behind some of the songs and what inspired them. Whether they're in Shona or English, they've all been chosen because they speak to universal experiences while remaining deeply rooted in Zimbabwean culture."
Muleya said keeping the venue under wraps is part of the globally recognised Sofar Sounds experience, which transforms intimate spaces into memorable live music settings.
"We are not announcing the venue in advance. The address will only be revealed 36 hours before the show," Muleya said.
He added that the event's theme, "One Night with Sambiri: From New York City to Harare," celebrates the artist's musical journey while bringing his international experience back to Zimbabwe.
Sambiri said his musical identity has been shaped equally by Zimbabwean legends including Fortune Muparutsa, Innocent Utsiwegota, Marshall Munhumumwe and Leonard Zhakata, as well as international R&B icons Donell Jones, Babyface, D'Angelo and Donny Hathaway.
"I don't see those worlds as separate. They've all shaped the way I think about melody, harmony, storytelling and emotion," he said.
Looking beyond the Harare performance, the artist revealed plans to collaborate with local creatives, write new music and produce visual content during his stay.
"My hope is that this isn't a one-off visit, but the beginning of many more performances and collaborations across Zimbabwe and the rest of Africa. I'm simply continuing to push forward, staying open to whatever opportunities come next and trusting that the music will keep leading me where I'm meant to go," he said.
Tickets and event enquiries can be made through Sofar Sounds Harare via [email protected] or 071 545 0146.
