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Review: Clare Nyakujara’s ‘Pimp Your Music Brand’: A Guide to Creating a Successful Music Career

New York-based singer-songwriter Clare Nyakujara, known for her soulful and uplifting music that reflects her African heritage and American experiences, has released her latest endeavour, an eBook titled “Pimp Your Music Brand.”

 

With over 20 years of experience in the music industry, Clare has now turned her attention to helping aspiring musicians establish a strong presence and achieve their goals through effective branding strategies.

In today’s digital age, where the music market is more competitive than ever, Clare emphasizes the importance of a well-crafted music branding strategy. Her eBook serves as a comprehensive step-by-step guide, catering to beginners as well as seasoned industry professionals, to navigate the intricacies of building a successful music career.

Clare understands that in order to stand out amidst the noise, artists must have a thorough understanding of their target audience.

She stresses the significance of recognizing the specific demographic one wishes to reach, as this insight shapes the image, messaging, and overall branding efforts required to connect with potential fans.

In “Pimp Your Music Brand,” Clare explores the fundamentals of music branding and highlights the pivotal role it plays in capturing audience attention and loyalty.

Drawing from her wealth of experience, Clare reminds readers that effective branding extends beyond mere logos and names. It encompasses all marketing efforts and, most importantly, influences how audiences perceive an artist.

In her eBook, she offers a roadmap to creating a music branding strategy that aligns with an artist’s vision and resonates with their target audience. From understanding the importance of credibility to crafting a compelling message, Clare provides musicians with the tools they need to establish a strong brand identity.

Clare’s commitment to empowering musicians extends beyond her eBook. She has also created a popular Udemy course entitled “How to Create a Music Brand That Sells: A Guide for Musicians.”

This comprehensive course helps musicians navigate the intricacies of branding and marketing their music effectively, ensuring sustainable success in the industry.

From establishing a strong identity to identifying target audiences and creating impactful marketing materials, the course equips musicians with the knowledge and skills needed to monetize their music and cultivate a dedicated fanbase.

Through her expertise and passion for helping musicians achieve their goals, Clare Nyakujara proves to be an invaluable mentor and guide, revolutionizing the way musicians approach their careers.

For more information about Clare Nyakujara’s eBook “Pimp Your Music Brand” and her Udemy course “How to Create a Music Brand That Sells: A Guide for Musicians,” visit her official website on clarenyakujara.com

Rick Ross Harare Show — A Bitter Sweet Night Of Glamour

For his maiden appearance in Zimbabwe, American rapper Rick Ross needed only 50 minutes to deliver an unforgettable performance last night at the HICC.

The glamorous aesthetics of his set were complimented by a frenzied crowd that passionately sang along to a wealthy catalogue threading hit after hit.

But that is something everyone would have easily anticipated from a multi-award-winning international superstar.

However, the emerging conversation is a tale of a long bittersweet night out in the capital.

The show was billed to kick-off at 1700hrs with curtain-raising red-carpet performances by local artists. However, there was a delay probably to allow as many revellers into the giant arena.

The MTV Base branded red carpet did justice to the VIP ticket holders. Emphasis on the red-carpet stage as it will assist in the unravelling of a discourse that this review holds in massive regard.

This stage is where a number of local hip-hop artists were assigned. Hillzy warmed that stage to an energetic crowd that assured him of their love for his new EP which dropped on the same day.

Saint Floew took the chance to put a face on Silas Mavende as the song continues its run for song of the year contention. The Fourty Gang (Kikky Badass and Crooger) were out to prove their class amidst social media heat following their lashing out at this year’s Zim Hip Hop Awards.

Simultaneously, the main stage roared into life. DJ King Her unfolded her genius on the decks as fans settled around 9pm.

At this point in time, the line-up schedule was just a conspiracy theory. Notable is DJ Rimo teaming up with legendary emcee Etherton Bennie to add a vegan dish to the menu.

The routine would turn the concert into a club frenzy as MCs Cut, Tatts and Abisha exchanged the mic until midnight.

It was however well executed sets with tiny doses of local music, something which we heartily despise as an industry aspiration – promotion of local content.

As the clock hugged midnight, the HICC swelled to almost full capacity and patience became a scarce commodity with fans expressing their frustration and organizers were swift to respond.

They unveiled Rick Ross as the opening act. The Boss invaded the stage with salutations for Zimbabwe as a loving people. His set testified global stardom.

The connected crowd cheered the Big Boss chorally chanting ‘Roo-zay’ after every song.  Scott Sakupwanya was invited on stage and Ross rounded his large frame with the ‘scarf’. The theatrics rounded off the main act of the night.

Scott Kupa & Rick Ross – Pic by Nyasha Technical Muzarabani

Enzo Ishall was the surprise act of the night. The ZimDancehall artist is currently flying high with the ‘serial hit maker’ tag and this night was another chance to effortlessly do this music thing.

He indicated that Nasty C was the next performer. The young rapper from South Africa took to the stage cool, calm and gravy!

Nasty C is familiar with the Zimbabwean turf hence his delivery was simple but polished. He made way for late addition DJ Maphorisa who made sure Amapiano remains a favourite and fast-growing genre across the continent.

Holy Ten and Takura capped the night despite the emptying seats in the wee hours of a Saturday morning.

Billed to be the main opening act for Rick Ross, Nutty O’s chance was blown away as the artist failed to perform.

His management has issued a statement saying among other things; Their balance was not paid up by their official stated time of performance, his team were not granted access tags nor access to the event before and during the event and that they were denied a performance slot on the stage.

ROAR entertainment is yet to issue a statement or respond to Nutty O’s management

The Rick Ross show by ROAR Entertainment has so far received a fair share of negative and positive criticism pointing to the way it was organized.

For a show that Zimbabweans wanted as a chance for the local hip-hop industry, to prove their mettle, it left a sour taste. This is a night where local rappers could have been afforded a chance to showcase the art which has been buzzing all year.

It was a beautifully crafted show that however pierced our patriotic and revolutionary local hip-hop hearts.

The Real Cost Behind Pokello & Tanya’s Red Carpet Looks

The fashionable duo of Pokello and Tanya and their inspiring beauty looks always remind us of the true ethos of friendship: friends that slay together stay together.

They are the ultimate Best Fashion Friends! Somewhat of a Gigi Hadid & Kendall Jenner or an Eva Longoria & Victoria Beckham.

Simply put Pokello Nare and Tanya the Therapist are some of the Most Stylish Besties on the Gram.

The pair possess a certain royal elegance that gets more amplified when they’re together like they did at the recently held Rick Ross Concert in Harare.

Pokello and Tanya stepped onto the MTV Base red carpet at around 2130 escorted by security detail, but Zimbuzz managed to catch a glimpse of the two.

They looked just as stylish as we expected. It’s rare for them to look anything but flawless

But How much do these two pay to look this good?

Zimbuzz takes a look at the heavy price tags on their outfit. The focus does not include accessories and heels, we are pretty sure the cost could be higher.

Pokello

Designer: Casablanca Paris (casablancaparis.com)

Vol De Nuit Quilted Curved Hem Mini Skirt – $722

Vol De Nuit Quilted Cropped Jacket – $1,073

Total: $1,795

Tanya

Designer: Dolce & Gabbana (us.dolcegabbana.com)

Jersey leggings with sequins: $1,245

Cropped silk jacquard sweater: $1,595

Total:$2840

Hillzy Releases His Last EP titled In The Building

Hillzy’s In the Building marks a turning point in the multi-talented artist’s already decorated and storied career.

A year after moving back home to his native Zimbabwe from Cape Town where he had spent almost a decade – Hillzy found new inspiration and verve to create music for himself and to feed his artistic inclinations.

Determined to break out of the musical pigeonhole he had been placed in, Hillzy set out to prove that he can out rap, outsing and out-produce all his contemporaries.

In The Building features 11 songs, all of which are mixed and mastered by Hillzy himself. 5 of the songs are produced by him under his Mr Masinh pseudonym.

As part of his return to his roots, Hillzy has linked back up with his early collaborator and mysterious figure – H3nry (Forever).

 

The only other collaboration on the album comes via the production and vocals of Manno Beats – a multi-award-winning producer and artist from Haiti, who lends his talents on Signs.

Celebrated producer and guitarist Spirit Fingers produced Only You which dropped earlier this year and has already proven to be a massive hit on social media, raking up 2 million views on TikTok alone.

The other notable single from the album is Chargie which has just crossed the 1 million views threshold on YouTube.

In The Building is a clear demonstration of Hillzy’s talents and storytelling abilities that has the perfect blend of Hip Hop and R&B offerings that balance Hillzy’s boisterous confidence and emotionally captivating sincerity.

As Hillzy highlighted in a recent interview on ZiFM this will be his last EP before starting work on his official full-length album.

THE JOY release single “Egoli” and perform on Jools Holland’s 30th birthday bash

It has been a momentous weekend for The Joy with the release of their brand new single “Egoli” on Friday and a performance on the iconic UK music show Later…with Jools Holland on Saturday; for a one-off live recorded special for Jool’s 30th Birthday Bash filmed at London’s Eventim Apollo.

They performed their debut single “Isencane Lengane” – watch HERE.

With their roots in traditional Zulu music and modern acapella, their latest offering takes the South African quintet into rich, melodic, and uplifting music terrain.

Produced by Tiago Correia Paulo (Bongeziwe Mabandla, Tumi and the Volume), “Egoli” beautifully showcases what happens when The Joy’s signature harmonies are supported by Maskandi-influenced guitarwork and delicate production flourishes.

It’s no wonder they have caught the attention of Alicia Keys, Jennifer Hudson and Sam Smith and this weekend appeared hailing from a small town just outside of Durban in South Africa, The Joy’s members met at high school after entering a singing competition together.

Their music quickly spread internationally through their Instagram and TikTok accounts and, before long, they were working producer Two Inch Punch (Kali Uchis, Jessie Ware, Years & Years).

Through his label imprint, the quintet released their debut single “Isencane Lengane” in May 2021, with EP Amabutho following in September of that year – both helping set the group on course to become a global phenomenon.

“Egoli” surges with happiness at the hopes and dreams it encapsulates. “Egoli means ‘place of gold’ in Zulu, a name given to Johannesburg because of its gold mining history.

The song is about leaving the rural areas to move to the big city for a better life,” says the group.

“In South Africa this is a reality we face from a young age, growing up separated from our parents who work in the cities to send money back home. For us the big city represents hopes and dreams and we are on our way to reaching them! ”.

Holy Ten, Voltz JT, SaintFloew lead 2022 ZIM Hip Hop Awards Nominations

Hip-hop’s most prominent stars Holy Ten, Voltz JT and SaintFloew will battle it out to add a few more trophies for their shelves as they lead the 2022 ZIM Hip Hop Awards nomination list.

This year’s edition takes place on December 8 2022 at the 7 Arts Theatre in Avondale Harare with the Red carpet starting at 6 pm.

Holy Ten and Voltz JT both scored 7 nominations in the Best Male, Best Collaboration, Best Album, Song of the Year, Best Hustle, Personality of the Year, and People’s Choice category.

Saintfloew comes in second with 6 nods in Best Male, Best Hustle, Song of the Year,Best Alternative, People’s Choice and Best New Comer.

Ti Gonzi, R Peels and Hillzy come in with 5 nominations each whilst Leo Magozz and Kikky BadAss both have 4 nominations.

Probably the fiercest Zim Hip Hop Awards edition in recent years as almost all of the fan favourites and bangers are up for nomination.

The most coveted Best Male and Best Album categories are gonna send tounges waging as any one of the nominees can run away with it.

Leo Magozz who provided the country with an anthem is expected to bag the song of the year and Best Collaboration for his hit song Fire Emoji.

He will however face a tough battle in the Best Alternative as he faces stiff competition from Mzis’kay, Saint floew, Hilzy and Tanto Wavie.

Prevoius Best female winners Kikky and Phreshy have their dominace under threat from Masvingo-based rapper Shian, Young gemini, Noluntu j and Milz million.

Masofa Panze Art are expected to scoop both the Best Brand Supporting Local Hip-Hop and Best promoter as they have been visible with their work, taking the lead in post lockdown era

Tickets have been pegged as follows: Standard ticket 10USD,  VIP 30USD, early bird 20USD and are available at liquor supplies in Avondale.

See the Full List by Categories              

  1. Best Male
  • Saintfloew
  • Holy Ten
  • Voltz Jt
  • R peels
  • Ti gonzi
  • Suhn

 

  1. Best female
  • Phreshy
  • Young gemini
  • Kikky
  • Shian
  • Noluntu j
  • Milz million 
  1. Best Collaboration
  • Voltz Jt ft emtee -pfurai nekuno
  • Leo magozz fire emoji remix
  • Bagga Weragga ft Mycole biller -2pac shakur
  • Lamas ellz asaph terry tempo –va va voom
  • Boy nino ft Calvin- dankie mdali
  • Holy Ten ft Kimberly Richards-To scared

 

  1. Best Hip-Hop Group
  • Dialectrik blue
  • Domane
  • killemol
  • Icey ekxne and slyme fox
  • Mula nation

 

  1. Best Producer
  • Jon the producer
  • Progis the name
  • Jax on the beat
  • Zero music
  • Afrow zenda
  • Scip mula
  • Hoolan wolf

 

  1. Best New Comer
  • Bling 4
  • Bagga Weragga
  • Saint floew
  • Mycole biller
  • Brian jeck
  • Kay flow
  • Tha Bees

 

  1. Best Brand Supporting Local Hip-Hop
  • Grapevine
  • Masofa Panze art
  • Shoemaker IIWII Mens conference
  • Define ent
  • Domane
  • Letter Z music factory

 

  1. Best Album
  • Scrip -scripian 2
  • Jungle loco- gwala mnandi
  • Dingo duke- the tavern hotel
  • Suhn-suhn
  • Voltz JT- life of muvhimi
  • R peels- zviri ever beautiful 2
  • Holy Ten – energy

 

  1. Best Promoter
  • Preezo
  • Brintz- hip hop power sessions
  • Tich define
  • Masofa panze art
  • Domane
  • Oceane le renx

 

  1. Best Diaspora
  • Mlue jay
  • Chief chino
  • Kuda k
  • Dimitri and the scarecrow
  • Hillzy
  • Synik
  • briss mbada

 

  1. Best Radio DJ
  • Mox
  • Khekhe
  • Pd and lady k
  • Kritic igwe
  • Thorne laroque
  • Prometheus

 

  1. Best Club DJ and event dj
  • Ikonic krimz
  • Tk beats
  • Dj Ace frver
  • Smith on deck
  • Raydizz
  • Dj sibs appollo
  • Kead wikead
  1. Best Gospel Act
  • J soldier
  • Jason gwanzura
  • Top kris
  • Leon mwana wajoze
  • Joe chiz
  • Nta

 

  1. Best Dance ACT
  • Geek twins
  • Infinite crew
  • Break nation
  • Robotics
  • Extreme dreamers
  • B street crew

 

  1. Best underground
  • Malcom Mufunde
  • VI the law
  • Raykaz
  • Linc thaPrez
  • Dialekrtic blue
  • Stiiv

 

  1. Best alternative
  • Mzis’kay
  • Leo magozz
  • Dingo duke
  • Saint floew
  • Hilzy
  • Mugaratia
  • Tanto wavie

 

  1. Planet dodger best Online media
  • Zazise media
  • 263 post
  • Zimsphere
  • Yaad universe
  • Greedy south
  • Zimhiphopcircles
  • Juice mag

 

  1. Best Journalist.
  • Mukudzei Mlambo
  • Takudzwa Kadzura
  • Denzel Sambo
  • Elmond Chibaya
  • Ronald Magweta
  • Lennon Mudzengerere

 

  1. Visual arts
  • Billie
  • Sphinx Bow
  • Kreota
  • Caligraph
  • Post studio art collective

 

  1. Best live act
  • Dough major
  • Luminous
  • Dingo duke
  • Noluntu j
  • Ti gonzi
  • CTL

 

  1. Song of the year
  • Saint floew – Silas Mavende
  • Holy ten too scared ft Kimberly Richards
  • Boy nino ft calvin Dankie mdali
  • Leo maggoz ft bling 4 and brian jeck fire emoji
  • Voltz jt Shamwari yangu
  • Hillzy – Nharo

 

  1. Video Of The Year & video director of the year
  • Kikky Badass- Talk ft annita sorojin sorojena
  • Leo maggoz fire emoji remix
  • Tanto Wavie- kudzinga munyama
  • Hillzy -Nharo
  • Ti gonzi – Pachi Hip Hop
  • Briss mbada- Mutadzi

 

  1. Best hip hop hustle.
  • Luminous
  • Holy ten
  • Oscar utete -Kingsville clothing
  • Voltz JT
  • Saintfloew
  • Kikky Badass
  • R peels
  • Asaph

 

  1. Best hip hop verse (sweet 16 award)
  • R peels -BP
  • Kriss newtone fire emoji- remix
  • Don jovi- ngene lay’nini
  • Outspoken- marvelous man
  • K Brizzy-presidential suite
  • Raykaz jodeci two

 

  1. Hip hop personality of the year
  • Naboth Rizla
  • Voltz jt
  • R Peels
  • Ti gonzi
  • Holy ten
  • Suhn
  • Asaph

 

  1. People’s choice
  • Holy ten
  • Voltz JT
  • Kikky
  • Hillzy
  • Suhn
  • Saintfloew
  • Luminous
  • Ti gonzi
  • Tanto Wavie
  • Dough major

 

  1. I Am Hip Hop Honorary Award
  • Naboth Rizla

 

  1. Lifetime Achievement
  • Maskiri

GZE enlists Takura on The Drill Hit – Ka That So

After six months of priming his fanbase and preparing for the release of his debut solo album titled Chekera, veteran wordsmith GZE has released his high energy drill-influenced single titled Ka That So.

The track features one of Zimbabwe’s hottest artists – Takura.

On the GangstaMadeIt produced song which is set to be a surefire hit, Takura and GZE trade bars laced in bombastic confidence.

Ka That So follows on from the release of Hondo Nerudo last week which was the first official release from GZE’s Chekera album.

The video directed by Simdoc matches the energy and creativity of the song featuring some truly impressive special effects that position GZE as the larger-than-life figure that matches his reputation.

In the build-up to this drop, GZE had dropped 9 freestyles which are part of his Freestyle Fridays mixtape.

Harare hosts the Communication Training on the ARIPO Regional Intellectual Property Rights System

The African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO) and the Intellectual Property Rights and Innovation Project in Africa (AfrIPI) are hosting a Communication Training on the ARIPO Regional Intellectual Property Rights System from 8 to 10 November 2022 at the ARIPO Secretariat in Harare, Zimbabwe.

Representatives from ARIPO Member and Observer States are attending the event presentially. Among others, participants include members of the National IP Offices, Government communicators, and the media from Angola, Botswana, Burundi, Cape Verde, The Kingdom of Eswatini, The Gambia, Ghana.

Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sao Tome & Principe, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

The Communication Training is the first of its kind at ARIPO and the region. It has been positively welcomed by the participants, who feel it is important for communicators to learn the technical side of Intellectual Property (IP) and how to demystify it to the general public.

The general public needs to understand the importance and impact of intellectual property in their daily lives.

Additionally, there is a need for government communicators and the media to be equipped to effectively communicate the ARIPO Regional Intellectual Property Rights System and the positive effects of the AfrIPI project to their audiences which can be used for awareness creation at a national, regional, and global level.

Many people are unaware and misinformed about Intellectual Property. For example, Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and the creative sector are losing out on the benefits of intellectual property.

“Communication plays a significant role in building respect and awareness of intellectual property rights. Without effective communication, the business sector, including SMEs, innovation hubs, and Research & Development institutions, will not readily be aware of intellectual property rights and how these rights can benefit their businesses and sustainably sustain their national economies.

At AfrIPI, we are committed to help the Africa communication community to make the most of IP promotion,” said Aida Galindo, AfrIPI Project Leader.

“Counterfeit products, which don’t comply with intellectual property rules, can threaten consumers’ health and, in some cases, lives. Serious dangers have been linked to counterfeit products ingested by consumers (food, drink, medicines) or put directly on the skin (cosmetics, fragrances).

People in the creative sector, such as artists and designers, are also affected by infringers who claim ownership of their work that is not protected, for instance. Subsequently, intellectual property is a subject that matters to everyone, and it is in your hands, as communicators, to share this message,” added Aida Galindo.

“In Africa, IP awareness can transform lives by helping reduce poverty, creating employment, and accelerating economic growth. For this reason, we are intentionally conducting this training to ensure that, ultimately, we are all well-versed with the mandate of ARIPO, as well as the IP system and its potential benefits,” stated Mr. Bemanya Twebaze, Director General of ARIPO.

“As will be demonstrated in this training, IP can be leveraged as a tool to facilitate Africa’s development. This is made possible by providing incentives to inventors and creators and facilitating the disclosure of knowledge and the transfer of technology and know-how,” added Mr. Bemanya Twebaze.

This Communication Training on the ARIPO Regional Intellectual Property Rights System will review those rights, including patents, trademarks, copyright and related rights, utility models, industrial designs, geographical indications, plant varieties, and trade secrets, and how to communicate them to the public.

The training will also cover the ARIPO protocols and their respective scopes. Moreover, two seasoned trainers in the field of communication from Ghana and Uganda will also share best practices on how to communicate IP effectively.

The objective of this training is to build the capacity of the participants to understand intellectual property issues and raise IP awareness among various stakeholders. It will also help promote respect for IP rights and encourage intellectual property protection.

Tatenda Mahachi bags a Crown Gospel Music Award nomination

Hot on the heels of his new collaboration, musician Tatenda Mahachi has scored a Crown Gospel Music Award nomination.

Mahachi is nominated in the category of Best of Africa together with South African songstress Winnie Mashaba for their song ‘A Friend’ (Shamwari).

The announcement which was made Friday evening placed the talented musician together with Linda Dlamini from Eswatini, Botswana’s Boago Fenju and fellow country Mike Mahendere.

Speaking on his nomination Mahachi expressed joy at the honour.

“The Crown Gospel Music Awards are the biggest gospel music awards in Africa, being recognised with a nomination from such a prestigious institution is humbling,” said Tatenda Mahachi.

“Many thanks go to Dr Winnie Mashaba for the collaboration and her travel to Zimbabwe to shoot the video, our producer Wizy from limitless production and everyone who partnered with us on this project.”

A friend or simply titled Shamwari — is a song of hope and encouragement to everyone who is going through life’s difficult seasons to remember that ultimately there is a friend in Jesus who knows all of our needs.

The song was released a month ago and is receiving good airplay on the radio as well as on TV.

“Our song is still new but has already managed to garner such a nomination, something which speaks well on its message and impact,” explained Mahachi.

“We thank the support of our local radio stations, TVs and the media at large for helping us amplify the project.”

The 15th edition of the Crown Gospel Music Awards will make a return to the Durban ICC on the 27th of November 2022.

RayDizz’ new compilation ‘The Abstract African Mix 5’ Now out

One of Zimbabwe’s most popular and decorated DJs, RayDizz has released The Abstract African Mix 5.

A fresh compilation of today’s hottest tracks blended effortlessly with timeless hits that go back generations.

RayDizz is a master of complementing different genres together from Hip-Hop and R’n’B to Afrobeats, Amapiano and Zim Dancehall, creating an atmosphere that let’s you lose yourself to the vibe.

Mix 5 features celebrated artists such as Ruger, JAE5, Amaarae, Kali Uchis, Burna Boy, SaintFloew and DJ Larry as well as select songs from RayDizz himself. Whether it’s a night out with friends or you’re own your chilling at home, The Abstract African Mix 5 is an experience you will enjoy.

Liaten and enjoy below: