Paul Pindani in CHINHOYI
CHALLENGES in life have motivated Chinhoyi Afro pop artist, Tawanda Simbi, to venture into music.
Better known as Coldpearl, Simbi was born in Chinhoyi in a family of three.
He is the only one doing music.
He did his secondary education at Kutama College and tertiary education at the Catholic University.
“I can say I motivated myself into singing, after facing a lot of difficulties, in life.
“I realised I could only let the people know my story through music but there are Zimbabwean artists that also gave me the zeal to sing because of the deeper lyrics they shared,” said Simbi.
To date, Simbi has recorded 15 songs.
Some of the tracks, which have propelled him into the limelight are Kuseri kwe Guka, Ameni and I See Power.
He told H-Metro he still recalls the first show which propelled him to prominence.
“My very first show, which I performed at a popular spot in Chinhoyi, where I shared the stage with Enzo Ishall and ExQ, opened new doors.
“My main genre is afro pop but I also try out different genres,” he said.
Simbi said his favourite artist is Jah Prayzah but loves all Zimbabwean artists as he believes they are all good and unique in their own vibes.
Simbi said Burna Boy is his best international artist.
“Local artists never get the recognition they deserve but we are slowly getting there since we now have our own radio station that has recognition across the district,” said Simbi.
“But, there has been the belief that music can only make sense when you go to the big cities but it’s about to change.”
He believes there has been a lot of improvement in the music industry.
Simbi said the lack of resources was hindering his progress.
“Proper management and coaching will help the local artists in getting the recognition they deserve.
“Hard work will always get us to the top.
“I think my music needs publicity because I believe those who will know my work will learn and also enjoy it.
“The world needs to know that there is so much talent in the outlying areas which a lot of people look down upon.”