IN a refreshing change of pace, Bulawayo's female artists made waves in the music scene in 2023, breaking barriers and putting their own spin on the local music scene.
Here is how some of the most notable names performed this year.
Sandra Ndebele Sibindi
She made headlines when she launched her album Umuzi, which was sold for a staggering $US53 000 at the ZITF.
She went on to make headlines as she contested in the municipal elections during the August 23 general elections, which she lost. She, however, won the council seat during the December 9 by-elections.
Ndebele also went on to graduate with an Honors Degree in Music Business, Musicology and Technology at the Midlands State University.
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Thandy Dhlana “Ethno-soul diva”
“2023 has been a good year. I did a couple of state functions, cooperate functions, performed at the Zima awards, at Shoko Festival, Phenomenal Festival of Lights, Roots Festival (Austria), Soul Cookout Coca-Cola, Sanganai Hlanganani, Doek and Slay. I represented my city at the Zimbabwe Music Indaba as well just to mention a few.”
LaDee
“2023 wasn’t a good year for me because I took a rest a bit from the music sector due to my health issues, but I tried to give my fans something at the end of the year and I’m glad they appreciated the project.
“Gracing the RoilBAA23 stage was my best moment, I recently released a song called Khanyisa that is actually making waves and I feel like we're ending the year on a positive note," she said.
Lady Tshawe
“Definitely, being part of The Dr Hokaspokas show, a production that afforded me the opportunity to perform at the State Theatre, Market Theatre and Civic Theatre in eMalahleni! Being able to stage my first spoken word show in Harare earlier in the year was also quite amazing.” she said.
Mandie Mae
“I released my debut album and did my first collaborations and features with big Bulawayo artists. I also did my first music show when I launched my album," she said.
Sithandazile Dube
“2023 was a good year for me artistically especially with Covid-19 behind us. I managed to work with big brands like Musasa, PPC, Old Mutual and Nedbank. I also look forward to work more and increase my online visibility next year.”
Tariro NeGitare
“My major highlight was being appointed manager for Stanbic Jacaranda music festival. It came at a time I did not expect it and yet it was just what I needed. I managed to use all my events and hospitality background as well as my knowledge of being an artist," she said.