ZIMBABWEAN singer and composer Carmen Hwarari will launch her latest album titled Listen on December 16 at the REPS Theatre in Harare.
The event promises a vibrant musical experience featuring an exciting performance from Hwarari alongside her collaborators Albert Nyathi, Dereck Mpofu, and Q Malewezi of Malawi.
Joining them on stage will be backing singers Ndomu, Noku, Ammy, and Fay Rindai, described by Hwarari as "passionate, skilled, and devoted." The award-winning dance troupe Iyasa will also be present, along with a special performance by Hwarari's 11-year-old daughter.
The 12-track album, Listen, is described as a multi-faceted musical journey that explores the rich tapestry of African culture and human experiences.
The 12- track album is a multi-faceted musical journey that explores the rich tapestry of African culture and human experiences.
“Divided into compelling sections, it delves into themes of identity, societal norms, women and children’s rights and the transformative power of love. The project is an artistic endeavor that celebrates Africa’s heritage, while addressing pertinent issues," read a press release by Kunzwana Trust.
“With captivating performances, monologues, poetry and cathartic storytelling, Listen promises to inspire reflection and unity through the universal language of music.”
This is Carmen’s second album after her debut album, I Call To You which was released in 2017.
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Listen includes collaborations with three gifted artists — Dereck Mpofu in ‘Arise Africa’, the legendary poet ubaba Albert Nyathi in MaAfrica, Mokoomba’s Matias Muzaza in Bwela, and a Poem The Good Wife written by one she calls Malawi’s best poet, Q. Malewezi.
Born and raised in Bulawayo with a deep passion for music and the arts, Carmen was drawn to the stage from childhood and after graduating from Midlands State University in 2010 and continuing her journey with fellow students in the group African Destiny, she had the privilege of collaborating with esteemed figures in the Zimbabwean music industry including Busi Ncube, Andy Brown, Willis Wataffi Afirika and Adam Chisvo to name a few.
Carmen spoke highly about Busi Ncube who played a great role in her growth.
“Busi introduced me to the fuller music scene in Harare. As a student from MSU, she helped me with my attachment at Thulani Promotions and I met lots of big artists and had a chance to work with them. She has been integral in so many ways, I have worked with her on her projects, toured with her” she said.
Kunzwana Trust said her musical endeavours have taken her on tours to various countries such as Norway, Sweden, India, Angola, Zambia, and South Africa.
“Besides performing, Carmen also shares her expertise as a vocal, traditional dance, and mbira coach and has worked as a music teacher at Harare International School in Zimbabwe, the International Preparatory School in Mauritius, and she is currently teaching at the Bishop Mackenzie International School in Malawi,” read the statement.
