Sahii honours totem through debut album Sahii

Mbulelo Mpofu, [email protected]

SAHII is not just a stage name for Dianah Rudo Chivizhe but is also her totem, a symbol of her identity and heritage.

The songwriter and multi-instrumentalist calls herself a “Moyo, Sahii and Mashayamombe”, paying tribute to her great grandfather, who was a skilled mbira player and hunter.

Sahii has a passion for music that runs in her blood. She grew up in a musical family in Bulawayo, where she learned to play various instruments, including the mbira and the box guitar.

She also studied Media Studies thereby enhancing her knowledge of music as a form of expression.

Sahii’s talent was evident from a young age when she led the choir in primary school and impressed audiences with her voice.

She later worked as a studio backing vocalist for the late Joe Maseko, a famous recording artiste and producer. She also performed at Sizane High School where she completed her secondary education.

Sahii recently released her debut single, Sahii, which is also the title of her upcoming album. The song showcases her soulful vocals, thoughtful lyrics and a unique fusion of traditional and contemporary influences. Sahii has captivated listeners with her emotional depth and evocative storytelling, creating a distinct musical style.

She is working on her album, which is expected to be out by the end of this month. Sahii draws inspiration from her life experiences, cultural heritage and the diverse music landscape of Zimbabwe.

She aims to create a body of work that resonates with audiences and showcases her artistic growth.

“My album is 80 percent complete and I’m excited to release the album. It’s a self-funded project and I’m happy with the progress that I have made so far,” she said.

Some of the songs that mbira enthusiasts should look out for include Ndizvo, Guq’uthandaze and African Woman.
Sahii said some of her musical influences were Thomas Mapfumo, the late Chioniso Maraire and Stella Chiweshe. She also credits her grandfather as a source of inspiration.

Sahii’s musical prowess, combined with her unwavering passion and dedication, has positioned her as a rising star in the Zimbabwean music scene.

With her unique sound and captivating performances, Sahii is poised to make a significant impact not only in her homeland but also on the global stage.

As she continues to explore and push boundaries, Sahii’s musical journey promises to be one filled with creativity, authenticity and a celebration of her Zimbabwean roots.

She enjoys playing the Nyunganyunga and a little bit of box guitar.

“That’s what I played first before the mbira and when mbira came, I lost all interest in the guitar. Mbira is a very spiritual Zimbabwean instrument,” she said.

Sahii has enjoyed a blossoming working relationship with S’coo Madonko and Tariro NeGitare, something that she cherishes.

“They have been great big sisters. I have gained a lot of wisdom because they have been in the industry for a while,” she said. – @MbuleloMpofu

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