Introducing Raven, Zimbabwean blues & neo soul musician
Tell us a bit about your history, (Where you are from, family, highlights outside of music)
Born and raised in Harare. I’m single. I participated in public speaking, swimming and modelling. Future plans of
studying psychology.
How did you get into music?
There is history of music in my family. I have always been passionate about music and thank my poetic streak for my song writing skills.
What type of music do you sing
Blues and Neo soul.
Do you play any instruments?
A bit of the marimba and I’m learning how to play the piano.
Do you have a band?
Yes, a 4 piece band, which includes a drums, keys, Bass and lead guitar.
We first heard you backing vocals for Outspoken, what was it like working with him?
It was a great experience. The hip hop/spoken word element was a different culture as Outspoken addresses social, political and religious issues.
Will he feature on some of your tracks?
Yes,I have one special track that would sound great with a spoken word feel.
Which other artists have you worked with before?
I recorded a track with award winning hip hop artist Synik, live shows with Hope Masike, Prudence Katomeni Mbofana during a Human rights concert. I will be doing a collaboration with Kenyan artist Silas Miami during HIFA 2015 and Jam Signal.
Your thoughts about the music industry in Zimbabwe?
It still has a long way to go in terms of good quality production, video wise and recording.
What role is music playing in Zimbabwe today?
Protests and assisting with domestic violence awareness, child abuse and issues that affect the populace.
Where else have you performed?
Book cafe,Alliance Francaise, Zimbabwe German Society and Maestro.
Tell us something that we do not know about you?
I’m a good dancer.
What does the tattoo mean?
Rebirth, through any difficult situations I emerge victorious.
Zimbabwe at 35, what are your thoughts?
Encouraging to see that artists are free to mingle and produce their music anywhere in the country.
Given $1 billion to tackle any social issue in Zimbabwe what would that be?
I would pick an organization that tackles prevention of child abuse, helping children who have been abused so they can get school fees, medication, school uniforms and food.
What’s your definition of patriotism?
Identifying myself with my country endeavouring to make the world a better place.
Zimbabwe is the best country in the world because...
We are a peaceful nation.
