Prudence to showcase new hot album
Launched last month, Prudence is the first solo offering from this gifted young woman, the first opportunity to experience her many different facets, a culmination of her artistic experiences so far, which have led her down a colourful path in music, stage and film from her very young days.
The hugely popular singer, songwriter, jazzist and actor, Prudence, has become a household name in Zimbabwe, performing over the years in countless clubs, festivals, and exclusive corporate events with some of Zimbabwe’s top artists, the likes of Jazz Invitation and others.
She has shared stages with acclaimed African artists, travelled widely in the region including somewhat off-road trips to Botswana and Namibia, toured in France with the famous jazz uncles, The Cool Crooners, performed in Norway over the last four years, and most recently with the women’s ensemble, WoCalling, in September.
This chequered musical journey provides the DNA for the new album, three years in the making, which in spite of her strong jazz background, Prudence says: “I love jazz, but . . . this is not just jazz, it touches many different genres . . . It’s who I am; it’s me.”
The album is already receiving good airplay, a few favourites being Mayayarira (Talking drum) inspired by Mali music, mixed with the traditional Zimbabwean chokoto drumming pattern, and a call to “count your blessings and be thankful”.
Emancipation has a strong reggae influence with which Prudence grew up in the family home, and Bhuku (Book) is more soulful with the jazz influence coming through. Baba Bhoyi (Hubby) talks of a two-way partnership and family building.
Composed by songwriter Robert Manthenga, the song is re-arranged together with Prudence with some surprising brass elements added.