Next Level Issue 2021 by Groove Magazine Intl

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Groove Magazine International is a music and urban culture magazine focused on young innovators and influencers across the globe and their impact on urban culture.

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THE NEXT LEVEL

ISSUE 1

GROOVE MAGAZINE INTERNATIONAL A MUSIC & URBAN CULTURE MAGAZINE

COVER FEATURE

CULTURE

BUSINESS

MUSIC

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METROPOLITAN

Editor's Letter “If you can't fly then run, if you can't run then walk, if you can't walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.”- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. You can look up, sideways, and even back, but the actual goal

of love with years placed into horning her art.

is to look forward. I put on my high heels and joined the rest of the world in the celebration of 2020! We closed another

We crossed the pond for a befitting celebration of being part

chapter of the century as we strode through the next decade.

of the story of the next generation. We caught up with

With high expectations of making the next step, none of us

Grammy award-winning songwriter and producer, Brian Soko.

had imagined our lives to be turned upside down.

Brian is the flag bearer of bringing home to the world, and vice versa. Moving into the main pillar of our business, we took a

The COVID-19 pandemic broke out early in 2020 and shut

seat at the table with Aurra. We first met Aurra as the

down the entire planet. We found ourselves faced with

seamless wordsmith and from now on she’s a digital

confusion, confined in our own homes and spaces. Quarantine

entrepreneur whose vision aligns with our very own.

has challenged every part of our livelihood as human beings. Ironically, faced with unprecedented times, it also created

What’s the next level?

opportunities for growth, introspection and even innovation. Expanding horizons, bridging gaps, and changing the narrative As a publication, our theme for the year, and the next ten

for the future!

years is, ‘Next level’. Eight years of vision development centered on the establishment of legacies for the next

We are Metropolitan, African, Global...

generation. The question for us was, "What's next?" Like others, we were unprepared, sometimes discouraged, and at most trying to find ways around the 'new normal' Getting the vibrant Gemma Griffiths not only as our cover but as a team player for this issue of the publication, was nothing short of a blessing. The talented, multi-award-winning singer-songwriter epitomizes the ‘next level’. Her meteoric rise into the mainstream, and now the African continent, comes as a labour

Groove Magazine International!

Elspeth Chimedza EDITOR IN CHIEF

Chimedza 4

Cover Image Marc Neilsen Editor in Chief Elspeth Chimedza Senior Editor Peggie Shangwa SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR Gashirai Nyemba Christine Chibage DESKTOP PUBLISHER KeRu Media Photography Marc Neilson Lincoln Mandengu Benny Mars Wardrobe Chenesai Studio Make-Up Artist Gemma Griffiths Cover By Brendon Mafukidze- BM Media Graphics Brendon Mafukidze- BM Media KeRu Media Advertising groovezim@gmail.com 20 Mitchell Road Greendale Harare Zimbabwe Mobile: +263 733 817 786 +263 772 355 188

Next Level

Groove Magazine International Vol. 2 Issue 1 March 2021

SPOTLIGHT

COVID-19 GLOBAL PANDEMIC The New Normal The turn of the new decade brought an unforeseen situation in which the world had to go into hibernation. This came with several side effects on nations, communities and families with several unforeseen challenges that came with a global pandemic. By mid-February, rumors were circulating about a "Corona thing that emerged from Whuhan". Early in March, things took a turn for the worse, and by April, it had spread to almost every nation on the globe. The novel strain of coronavirus — SARS-CoV-2 — was first detected in December 2019 in Wuhan, a city in China’s Hubei province with a population of 11 million, after an outbreak of pneumonia without an obvious cause. The virus has now spread to over 200 countries and territories across the globe, and characterised as a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) on 11 March 2020.

It became a name that we understood called COVID-19 that came with strict precautionary measures such as wearing masks, social distancing and lock-down as part of everyday immediately. Coronavirus are a family of viruses that include the common cold, SARS and MERS. COVID-19 affects different people in different ways. Most infected people will develop mild-to-moderate illness and recover without hospitalization. Communities around the world continuously respond to the rapidly evolving situation around COVID-19, as they try to adapt to ‘the new normal’. Majority of countries have ‘opened’ up for economic reasons, taking precaution remains the best way to flatten the curve.

#TRENDING

In The Groove 2020 was a year that flipped the narrative about literally everything. Sitting at home, gave most of us time to assess what humanity accepted, and didn't accept. And the conversations extended into 2021. So what's been trending and making headlines?

MASK ON OR OFF?

Masks are not just cool facial accessories but could save your life. However, in many parts of the world, citizens have been in conflict about when, or where to wear masks. Some reserved the right not to mask up at all. According to regulations by most authorities, it is mandatory to wear masks whilst in public areas. Fabric masks are recommended to prevent onward transmission in the general population in public areas. Who should be wearing masks? The choice is yours.

#TRENDING

THIS IS A REVOLUTION

CANCEL CULTURE

Using digital platforms changed the face of activism, and Millennials and Gen Z continue to challenge the status quo through this space. In the wake of the death of George Floyd, the hashtag #BlackLivesMatter not only trended, but led to protests against police brutality and racially motivated violence against black people and of colour.

Accountability is a must in the court of public opinion. ‘Cancel culture’ was more than just a buzzword, but a call for accountability by perpetrators of all things deemed ‘offensive’ by the masses. Several brands and individuals found themselves under the scrutiny, and to some extent ostracism for past and present acts that violated the code of the current socio-political climate.

These protests stirred activism across the globe against injustice including in Brazil, France, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Namibia, South Africa, Ethiopia, Angola, Cameroon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, amongst other nations. And the fight for justice continues, on-and-offline.

To be cancelled means that a person, or company are kicked out of their social or professional circle unceremoniously. And several individuals lost jobs, money and standing because of being cancelled. But as we move on let's explore 'second chances.'

PEACE OF MIND

LET'S TIKTOK

The long lockdowns due to the pandemic caused a lot of anxiety. Many people across the globe found themselves in a vulnerable position whilst under quarantine. The experience for most caused loneliness, depression, amplified the reality of confronting one's own problems and mental health. The goal continues to achieve peace of mind despite the unpredictable circumstances on a personal, communal, national and global level through awareness and self-care.

2020 catapulted TikTok onto the mainstream, launching and even saving a number of careers. With a lot of time on their hands, teenagers, and even adults found themselves taking on challenges. From the hashtag #DontRush to #Jerusalema challenge, the platform offered users a source of entertainment. For artist such as Megan Thee Stallion, Jason Derulo, Joeboy and Master KG, TikTok afforded them major streams on music platforms.

Cover Story

Girl-Next-Door Going Global By Peggie Shangwa

Gemma Griffiths African music is like a meal that you serve to your international guests. In the last decade, a newfound recognition, and appreciation of the delectable sounds of the motherland have emerged. And with this breakthrough

Zimbabwean artists are finding their own voice in this new landscape. Gemma Griffiths represents diversity from the landlocked nation shaped like a teapot. She has unique blend of African pop, Shona, and Indie style in her music..

COVER STORY

We had a long overdue sit down to catch up with Gemma Griffiths. Queening with 'Mambokadzi', she received rave reviews from all over for the female empowerment anthem. Gemma takes us through her journey from singing covers to awardwinning top charting singles. She remains the down-to-earth star whom everyone relates to. She creates music that gives language and a voice to people’s prayers on 'Titungamire', by giving hope in the trying times we are engulfed in. Celebrating love and companionship in 'Ndinewe' which marries her passion for travel and song so perfectly. Gemma of course became Zimbabwe’s sweetheart after her feature on Winky D's 2019 smash hit, 'MuGarden'. In 2020 alone Gemma was awarded a NAMA, Female artiste of the year at ZIMA and was shortlisted for the MTV Africa Music awards in 2021. GM: We are excited to have you back Gemma, when we last spoke we were raving about your claim to fame being the Winky D 'Musarova Bigman' rendition. Years later you not only co~wrote a song with the guy but you have done multiple shows with MuGarden shifting roofs off entire buildings when you perform. You have also featured Ammara Brown in your song 'Mambokadzi' and started 2020 on a high becoming the definition of the next level. We loved seeing the many queens who appear in this video, talk to us about that majestic effort? Mambokadzi was an incredible project that came from the passion and drive of both myself and Ammara. We wanted to create something that celebrated women lifting each other up, which I hope we did. Visually I knew it was important to push the boundaries of what has been done, and this took a full team of styling, creatives and an amazing director, Marc Neilson to do. GM: Would you say that you have always known yourself, what you want, your dreams, your giftings and have you stepped into your purpose if you look at your life in retrospect? I definitely think I have always known my direction and purpose, I always wanted to be a singer and am besotted

We wanted to create something that celebrated women lifting each other up, with my country, so they were always going to go hand in hand. That doesn’t mean it’s a walk in the park, it takes a lot of determination to work towards something like music. GM: Many people we have spoken to about you have been curious to know how you know Shona so well and what myth do you think this has shattered across Africa concerning inter-cultural relations? I am Zimbabwean; I grew up in Zimbabwe; I went to school and church and music lessons in Harare. I took my first steps there. So I spoke Shona with friends, and my band, around town… this should be the norm. Music transcends so much in this world, culture, age, gender, it's incredibly powerful. GM: Congratulations! You won 4 awards at ZIMA how does this feel and what does this mean for your music career? Thank you so much (smiles) what an incredible way to begin 2020. I feel so blessed to be in this incredible industry, next to such talented artists. This will definitely encourage me to keep making music.

COVER STORY

GM: We understand that you are passionate about travel and good causes, walk us through the visits you have done across the nation particularly the one you did at Mushana school. What inspires this passion? Traveling is the biggest privilege I have had. When you travel, and interact with others, you learn unimaginable things, it is an education. This goes hand in hand with doing good, or trying your best to make a difference. There is so much to be done, so much need, and amazing people on the ground making it happen, but they always need more support. I work with some amazing causes such as the Restoration Hem Project, The ZHTS, The African Bush Camps foundation. All of these projects are driven by passionate people making a difference in our beautiful Zimbabwe. GM: What technical difficulties have you ever experienced on a live performance? Gosh, I think I have been pretty lucky – there are occasional issues with sound equipment, but that’s normal to come across when you are performing a lot. Once my keyboard wouldn’t turn on during a performance, that was funny though – my band is amazing and we just jammed it and had a great time. GM: What pressures do you face now as your music takes over the continent and your audience grows? To keep pushing the work to a better standard – but I put that pressure on myself, and it’s something I love to do.

GM: Which one of your songs that you have composed or performed best defines your personality? Good question! I’ve never asked myself that. I think it’s safe to say all of them.. because music is such a personal creation of what is within you, they all show a different part of myself, or a past experience or time, that went on to define who I am today. GM: On a scale of 1 to 10 how do you rate your brand? And why do you choose that rating for yourself? That’s tough, because rating yourself is a complex process. On one hand, I recently won 4 ZIMA awards – which was a massive achievement for me, as well as

having great success with my songs, but on the other hand, there is so much behind the scenes, the work you put in, the things you try, the plans you have that have not yet been released – so it is all progress towards a goal of improvement and growth, and growth doesn’t have an end point, so if we are ambitious, do we ever really get to 10? GM: You set the pace for 2020 what projects can we expect from you and where do we expect to see you in the long-term period? Many projects! I have new music on the way, as I prepare for the release of my debut album (more info to come) but rest assured, there will be lots of new music in 2020.

"Music transcends so much in this world, culture, age, gender, it's incredibly powerful." GEMMA GRIFFITHS She is currently in East Africa as part of her journey across Africa. She has been making music, and collaborating with East African artists. She collaborated with Tanzanian musicians Linex Mjeda and Baraka the Prince on the 'Ndinewe' remix. Bringing the unity back home, Gemma teamed up with dancehall maven Nutty O, and hip-hop king, Asaph on the Zimbabwean tribute, "263". On 10 December 2020, she released her 5-track EP 'Pamwe' which featured the preleased singles, with UK based, Charlie Kay and Simba Tagz on production.

GEMMA GRIFFITHS TWO QUALITIES THAT MAKE GEMMA GRIFFITHS STAND OUT

10 in 10

I am currently travelling Africa in a Landrover, I’ve done over 20,000 km so far, and my voice – everyone’s voice is pretty unique.

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IF I WASN'T FAMOUS I WOULD BE...

Doing the exact same thing – I make music and travel because I love it… I would do it in any circumstance.

WHATS THE WEIRDEST THING A FAN HAS EVER DONE TO YOU?

I signed someone’s stomach once (laughs) it was hilarious.

WHAT ISSUES WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE YOUR ART ADDRESS ON A NATIONAL SCALE?

I would love to keep building for unity, which I believe music can make big steps in. Music is the most incredible thing we create that brings people together.

WHAT DESTINATION WOULD YOU LIKE TO GO TO WITH YOUR WHOLE FAMILY?

Mana Pools again! We go every year, it’s my favorite place.

WHICH FICTIONAL CHARACTER WOULD BE THE MOST EXCITING TO MEET IN REAL LIFE?

Scooby Doo

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WHEN I WAS A KID ...

II wrote poetry... and then songs with the poetry.

I NEVER LEAVE THE HOUSE WITHOUT?

My gigantic purple water bottle

ONE OF MY FAVOURITE VENUES TO PERFORM AT IS?

II wrote poetry... and then songs with the poetry.

MY BIGGEST, WEIRDEST FEAR IS?

Falling off stuff... high stuff, like big rocks, so maybe not that weird?

WHAT WE ARE WATCHING Reviews On Trending Television/Web Shows In 2020 we said goodbye to a lot of our favourite television shows. Others went into hiatus due to the lockdown, while social media became the new source of visual content. With the promise of new seasons in 2021, what have we been watching?

The Binge Watch Bridgerton

Quarantine Watch Verzuz TV

fans down memory lane to the turn of the new millennium. During this era urban music evolved, with several pioneers paving way for the current Zimbabwean mainstream. This groundbreaking compilation of Zimbabwean music history made a great documentary. The visual documentation with some of the contributors was both exciting and plausible. It would have been great if SoProfound interviewed the common factor and godfather of the urban movement himself. Maybe that's his surprise for another web series.

Must Watch Corsets, scandals and marriage plots in a regency set series define Netflix’s 'Bridgerton'. The Shondaland series is the television adaptation of Julia Quinn's period novel. The drama series has been all the rage as fans can't wait for the second season. The show kind of reminds us of the 2000s, 'Gossip Girl' thanks to the faceless, Mrs. Whistledown. It brings in modern elements including its music, as well as the theme of diversity. In addition, fans are drawn to the dashing Duke Hastings played by Rege-Jean Page.

Power II: The Book of Ghost Following the season finale of 'Power', fans were excited to watch the next chapter of the St. Patrick family. We follow Tariq St. Patrick trying on map his way through his new life post his father's murder. He divides his time between school and hustling to pay for his mother's defense attorney. Desperate, Tariq turns to a familiar drug game that puts to the test, if he is Ghost 2.0?

It's already a year since super producers Swizz Beatz and Timbaland started Verzuz. The webcast series was introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic as a virtual DJ battle, with Timbaland and Swizz Beatz facing off in March 2020. The battle has brought on several producers, rappers, and singers who are iconic in music, particularly black music. Fans have been treated to Babyface,Teddy Riley, John Legend, Alicia Keys, Brandy , Monica, Jeezy, Kirk Franklin, Beenie Man, Gladys Knight and Patti LaBelle, amongst several others. The battles have benefitted the artists with an increase in music streams. As for Swizz and Timbo, this is only the beginning of a lucrative business venture for the culture.

The Chamhembe Story Radio personality, and spoken word artist, SoProfound gave Zimbabweans something they didn't ask for, but needed. A blast from the past! The Chamhembe Story' took Zimbabwean

Blood & Water

Looking for homegrown content? Straight out of South Africa, 'Blood & Water' is what we all needed. The series follows the life of a teenager who uncovers her family's secret past. This leads her to a journey of searching for her lost sibling whilst navigating life in high school. Accompanied by pop culture references, use of slang and a great soundtrack, fans are treated to an intriguing mystery and drama. We are definitely anticipating a second season following the cliffhanger.

POWER r a t ICONIC GRACE: Kings, Queens and Game Changers

Fame is one thing, relevance is another, but the ability to transcend influence is the greatest achievement for any human being. We have lost several people mainly due to the COVID-19 pandemic, however, loss comes in many ways. In this issue, we take a look at those who left us, but gave us the best of themselves. Legends leave legacies, and in every generation certain individuals impacted culture, and history. Leading the way and changing the game through creativity, passion, and hard work, these kings and queens are the epitome of star power.

CICELY TYSON (1924 - 2021) Cicely Tyson’s illustrious career that spanned for over six decades was marked with several trailblazing moments. She was the first African American to be in a television drama when she was featured in the series East Side/West Side in 1963. She was nominated for an Academy Award and a Golden Globe Award in 1972 for ‘Best Actress in a Motion Picture Drama’ for her role in Sounder. 45 years later was honored with an honorary golden statuette for her body of work. She was the first black woman to wear her natural hair on television. She became a global ambassador for American style and paved the way for natural hair onscreen in years to come. Her legacy of representative powerful black women in film and theatre is her star power.

CHADWICK BOSEMAN (1976 - 2020) Chadwick Boseman’s passing came as a shock to the world, but even in death, he lived up to his superhero persona. The actor chose to change the narrative of black identity by his role choices. Boseman played many influential Black figures throughout his career. One of them was Jackie Robinson in the 2013 film “42.” Robinson was the first African American to play in Major League Baseball. His prolific role was as the sovereign T'Challa of the fictional nation of Wakanda in the blockbuster ‘Black Panther’. Hi role and the film offered black communities both in the diaspora and around the world, a superhero who looked like them. It was his philanthropic work that made him a real life hero. His body of work during his short life is an example of black excellence, whilst his work in the community will forever be etched in history. ‘Long Live the King.’

TONY ALLEN (1940–2020) We cannot speak of Afrobeat without mentioning Tony Allen. A musician par excellence, the Nigerian drummer and Fela Kuti’'s travelling soulmate paved the way for the African sound on the global mainstream. Allen influenced drummers all over the world with his polyrhythmic sound. This recognizable signature sound has been instrumental in not only African music, but on the global scene.

WE ALSO REMEMBER THESE KINGS, QUEENS & GAMECHANGERS: Rocky Johnson - 15th January 2020 Kirk Douglas - 5th February 2020 Joseph Shabalala - 11th February 2020 Nikita Pearl Waligwa - 15th February 2020 Pop Smoke - 19th February 2020 Aurlus Mabélé - 19th March 2020

Kenny Rogers - 20th March 2020 Manu Dibango - 24th March 2020 Bill Withers - 30th March 2020 Vinolia Mashego- 6th April 2020 Andre Harell - 7th May 2020 Little Richard - 9th May 2020

KOBE BRYANT (1978 - 2020) Kobe Bryant also known as the 'Black Mamba' believed in greatness and excelled at executing the vision. His legacy lives on not only in the game of basketball, but the mindset of bigger and better. Bryant was arguably the greatest basketball player on the planet. From 2000 to 2010, he won five championships, two Finals MVPs, and one NBA Most Valuable Player Award during a career that spanned over two decades. Kobe was both a student and a teacher on the court and in life. Looking up to mentors such as Micheal Jordan, Bryant became a global role model and inspirational mentor himself. Kobe extended his support to Women’s basketball. His own daughter, Gianna, was quickly following her father's footsteps. Kobe immortalised himself as a legendary basketball sportsman. There will never be another like him. Mamba forever!

ZORORO MAKAMBA (1990 - 2020)

CALVIN (1984 - 2020) Most of us were introduced to Dat Luveve Boy on the single 'Z'khuphan' - a track that combined old school Kwaito and new school rap. Mgcini Calvin Nhliziyo, better known as Cal Vin, made moves to bridge the ethnic gap in Zimbabwe. 'Z'khuphan' was such a huge hit that South African superstar, Cassper Nyovest, jumped into the remix of the record. CalVin would go on to be an influential part of the Zimbabwean Hip Hop culture. From awards to beefs, and fire singles, CalVin represented not only artists from the Matabeleland region, but showcased the multifacets of bilingual hip hop. He won several local awards including the Zimbabwe Hip Hop Awards, Zimbabwe Music Awards and the Bulawayo Arts Awards. His involvement in production and mentoring other artists extended his influence. Though his life was cut short, the reign of King CalVin will live on.

Zororo Makamba proved that you are never too young to make an impact. The son of legendary broadcaster, James Makamba, Zororo mapped his own way as a journalist and entrepreneur. Makamba quickly changed the game when he moved from marketing to being an on air personality.He broke ground by hosting a web series using the late night show format, 'Tonight With Zororo'. It was all about pop culture, quickly earning his respect amongst his contemporaries. In addition, he created a documentary, 'Kushaya Zororo' which in hindsight, we saw a passionate and driven millennial who was a game changer. A fearless Zimbabwean who believed that the world was his oyster, and he had his fair share of the pearls..

WE ALSO REMEMBER THESE KINGS, QUEENS & GAMECHANGERS: Mary Twala - 4th July 2020 Zindzi Mandela- 13th July 2020 Bob Mabena - 10th August 2020 Sir Sean Connery -31st October 2020 Diego Maradona - 25th November 2020 Mshoza - 9th November 2020

SHIFTING THE DIGITAL SPACE AURRA KAWANZARUWA By Peggie Shangwa

A woman who shifts the conversation with her innovation. Aurra Kawanzaruwa keeps expanding her horizons whilst staying true to the woman we met years ago. In 2014, we experienced the aura of Aurra, who was synonymous with Zimbabwean poetry. During that period, she performed, hosted drivetime radio, worked behind the scenes in production, and sang. Fast forward, she has fast become the definition of boss in the information and business space. Aurra takes the Digital domain bull by the horns daily and makes cutting edge developments that shift the trajectory of all those she comes into proximity with. She has a proclivity for Digital explorative work and Education. Aurra has stepped into her purpose doing work she is passionate about, unlocking amazing doors and pushing the boundaries of possibilities for digitalization in our Educational system beyond what we have become accustomed to.

BUSINESS: DIGITAL

The world is your oyster you can do anything and be anyone you want to be. GM: We are excited to have you back Aurra, it’s been a while, you have been up to a lot since we last spoke. Working for ZiFM- digital, taking the Aurra Nicole group public and now Afri-digital. Catch us up on what you have been up to. Thank you for reaching out! It’s been a roller coaster ride since 2018 to be honest. After taking leave of my position as Head of the Business Channel at Zimpapers TV Network, ZTN, in April 2018, May was quick to bring a new challenge to my table. I was part of the founding team of the Business Times, AB Communication’s weekly financial paper. My role was

Online Editor, a challenging position but I was well mentored by the paper’s former Editor, Happiness Zengeni. I served as Online Editor for 6 months before being promoted to the Group Digital and Content Specialist where I served until August 2019. During that period, I was mentored by Group CEO, Mrs. Susan Makore, who created an incredible platform for me to build AfriDigital which was incubated by ZiFM and quickly became a profitable business. In August I set off to build the brand which evolved to become the Africa Is Digital International Summit; a platform for thought leaders from Africa and the rest of the world to discuss the inevitable evolution of

Africa into a digital-driven society, economy and culture. Then in January 2020 I was given an opportunity to pursue my passion in education. GM: Congratulations on the new post of School Principal. What a roller coaster this year has been already. Did you see this coming at all as you mapped out the future? Thank you so much! Those closest to me know that I have wanted to start, or, run a school since I was in my early 20s. Teaching has always been an ‘underground’ passion of mine and my first intentional pursuit to this end was the Little Entrepreneurs program I started in 2017. So, when I was appointed School Principal of St. Anne’s school by Ms. Laura Bandah, I felt like I was being pulled into my purpose and grabbed the chance with both hands! It has also been an excellent platform to engage AfriDigital’s existing network to help ‘digitize and modernize’ the legacy

school (established in 1947). GM: Would you say that you have always known yourself, what you want, your dreams, your gift and have you stepped into your purpose if you look at your life in retrospect? I’ll begin my answer with a story; on my 18th birthday my Dad made me a card and wrote “The world is your oyster you can do anything and be anyone you want to be”. I internalized this and it became the basis on which I pursued everything. I don’t know if anyone fully knows themselves. I can safely say I have changed and gone through several iterations of myself so many times already. What I can say is that I am incredibly ambitious. My partner likes to say I “eat impossible oats for breakfast”! I love to learn, I love to teach & I love to help the people I work with to reach their fullest potential. So, if I look at my life in retrospect, in that context, I would say yes, I have stepped into my purpose. GM: We know that you are an amazing entrepreneur and you take risks in business. Talk to us about the Aurra Nicole group, little Entrepreneurs and Afridigital. What birthed these? Aurra Nicole Group is a pan-African investment firm and it was the first

business I started after my divorce. It was where I put all my pain, energy and focus into. If anything, I could say that ANG birthed the entrepreneur that I am today. Initially I started off with 27 businesses that I invested in, but time and life lessons proved that this was way more than I could handle! Right now, we have 3 businesses in our investment portfolio in which we retain equity shareholding. Little Entrepreneurs is a business and innovation program for kids founded in 2017. We started off by running business camps during the school holidays which were successful largely because of the team I worked with, in particular Ms. Tawanda Mudzonga who was the glue that kept the ship intact. Together, we built a formidable program that saw 124 kids learn how to start and run a simple business. This year Little Entrepreneurs evolved into a school program and is now a part of St. Anne’s primary school curriculum. To date, through the camps, individual mentoring and the school program, I have personally trained over 200 kids in entrepreneurship. AfriDigital is my inner geek flourishing! Our mandate is to promote the development and dialogue around the 4th Industrial Revolution and its impact on African economies and communities. We work in the information space and have a strong leaning towards research

and data management, as well as education in the form of sector-specific public lectures. GM: What pressures do you face now as opposed to the last 5 years as your career takes over in a man’s world as the digital and business scene has been termed? The biggest pressure has been to remain a consistent and PRESENT mother. When you have got so much going on, you have to work even harder to be a good parent, especially considering I have a daughter growing up in a largely single-parent house. Secondly, the pressure to perform has been intense. I have had to work incredibly hard to get other institutions to get on board with a business that has very few other counterparts in the country. Extensive 4IR work is still relatively new in Zimbabwe. Also, being a woman in the tech space comes with its own challenges and complications, add that to being younger than 45, everyone sort of looks at you like you’re lost when sitting in meetings with some of the most influential leaders in the country. It certainly hasn’t been easy. GM: We know you have been travelling a bit facilitating workshops, hosting a few shows. Has the stage lost Its luster for you or are you still Involved In performances as a practicing Spoken

most influential leaders in the country. It certainly word artist? The stage never lost its luster for me! But I did have to prioritize my family’s wellbeing and allow myself to be more than a poet, which people just got used to me being. I do still perform, and this aspect of my career reignited in 2019 when I played the role of Bongile’s Voice in the NAMA Winning production ‘Bongile: We Are’ a theatre production written and Produced by Chiedza Makwara and Directed by Yeukai Chandiposha. Although an off-stage role, this was an almost cathartic experience for me, bringing me back to my roots in live performance. I have since performed in the opening production of the SoCreative 2020 Summit, as well as at the I AM Women’s Conference recently held in Harare. I’m also releasing a mixtape soon so that’s exciting! GM: How has the shift in your responsibility affected you as a mother, entrepreneur and artist. Would you say that you would change anything at all in your life at this point? I wouldn’t change anything right now, although, if it were possible, I would beg for more time to be a Mum. If anything, I would say the mounting pressures and responsibilities have made me a more efficient and organized person and this reflects in all aspects of my life and career. GM: What Issues would you like to see your art, business, teaching and digital work address on a national scale? That’s a tough one! I would like to see my work influence the creation of a culture not afraid to try new ways of doing things. I hope to play a significant role in shaping the way our education sector works. School is the beginning of everything as I like to think. If we can improve the way

we learn, what we learn and how we learn, I believe we would be positioning ourselves as a nation for a more tangible level of success. GM: We are so excited about your life, new love and a new chapter in your life. What values or lessons did you pick up in your journey to this moment? Your excitement gives me life! These are my key lessons so far: a) God is not done with you yet – when you are at the lowest point of your life, just remember that God has a plan and purpose for you beyond your perceived reality. b) Let it go and let it go quickly – learn to let go of things, people or circumstances that have hurt you. You will not move forward if you keep looking back. The sooner you let go the sooner you can move on. c) Allow yourself to be yourself. d) Not everyone will want to see you win or like you or think you are the dopest and that’s okay. As long as you

want to see you win and you believe in yourself, it doesn’t matter what anyone says. Cheesy, but it’s true. e) Love and allow yourself to be loved. This is a hard one and the success of this is largely dependent on your ability to love yourself, faults and all. f) Never be afraid to walk away from the familiar to pursue the new. GM: It’s a new decade, a new chapter for you on all levels. What can we look forward to from you and where do we expect to see you in the longterm period? Probably doing something out of the ordinary and hopefully a dress-size smaller! If there’s anything my journey so far has taught me, you never know what God has planned. Whatever I’ll be doing just know that I’ll be living my best life and doing the absolute most!

BUSINESS

Co-Existing with Covid-19 TIPS TO BUILD YOUR BRAND ONLINE By Gashirai Nyemba

Most countries are re-opening economies and returning back to “normal.” However, whatever we are "returning to" in the near future is likely to be far from normal – at least as we once knew it. If the COVID-19 pandemic has shown us something, everyone is learning to react to developments that unfold in real time, almost everyday. This has had major implications for several corporates and entrepreneurs alike. In the last year almost, every country across the world has been forced into lockdown due to the novel coronavirus COVID 19. This situation has not only disrupted our social life as we know it but how companies interact with their customers. In more developed areas of the world we’ve seen ecommerce bridging the gap for many brick and mortar operations and customers relying more on home delivery services.

What about us back here in the third world? Back here we’re faced with a precarious situation in terms of fully embracing digital marketing and creating a meaningful e-commerce value chain. Very few of us can afford to access the internet outside of a bundle, we have a transportation network that barely makes sense and in other scenarios, any fuel to move around. The current situation presents many of us with a rare opportunity to utilize this time to strategize how we can reach our customers with our message and put their money into our pockets or Eco cash. The one thing I’m going to emphasize the most in this video is engagement, how do you engage your customers online? So, let’s start with the simplest problem:

Where are your customers right now? Which online platform is your target market spending their time on. Is it Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn? Let’s say you’ve discovered your clientele spends more time on Facebook, where on Facebook are they? What are they doing there? Because don’t forget in as much as we can all be on the same social network we consume content differently, use it for different purposes. Once you figure out where your customers are and what they’re doing, the next step is grabbing their attention. Say I’m selling clothes and my target customer is spending time on Facebook commenting on posts in the group Fashion Police Yevarume Nevakadzi, how am I going to get that person’s attention in a meaningful way that’ll get me a sell?

CONTENT! CONTENT! CONTENT!

You need to have a content plan that speaks to your audiences? In the case of my example I’m most likely going to create a post that asks people for a blue dress or yellow dress which is better and put my details on the post. You not only get their attention but you’ve made them aware of your presence and what you’re selling and you just keep on creating fun and exciting ways to present your offering from there. Maybe I’ll create a makeover video at home, maybe style tips etc.…the possibilities are endless. You only need to fuse your expertise in your field with a bit of creativity and in no time, you’ll win your customers over. Use their interest as an opportunity to engage them in conversation and lead them into your DM and close the deal. While having great customer service and some experience with social media marketing is imperative, the alignment of sales and marketing teams to successfully execute virtual events and digital engagement will be the differencemaker in maintaining growth rates. Below are some great tips to help you fine tune your online assets across the board: • Website content – Ensure that it contains the right marketing messages with the right call to action. • Search Engine Optimization (SEO) – Check your current website organic search rankings. Benchmark with competitors. Optimize for search engines to improve the quality and quantity of your web traffic. • Content marketing – Generate ideas for new blog posts, video storyboard and start writing the next newsletter for your customers. Build marketing material that can be part of social conversation and is easily shareable. • Press releases and articles – Build opics you can inform the media and your clients about e.g. measures in place to fight the current situation. • Social media engagement – Exploring social and search channels such as Facebook, Instagram, Google AdWords, LinkedIn and strategizing how you can improve engagement.

topics you can inform the media and your clients about e.g. measures in place to fight the current situation. • Social media engagement – Exploring social and search channels such as Facebook, Instagram, Google AdWords, LinkedIn and strategizing how you can improve engagement.

The biggest DELIVERY!

headache

now

Unlike our counterparts in the US & Europe we don’t have much in terms of an efficient home delivery service like UPS, FedEx and Amazon Prime. As other African countries have begun easing lockdown measures, I’m fairly optimistic ours will be eased with enough leeway for us to get our products to our customers. With a lot of mushika-shika vehicles parked I honestly believe this is the opportunity to create meaningful synergies with most of these operators and develop a home delivery system. I’m just spitballing ideas here, we have many talented developers who can be persuaded to develop an Uber style app that links vehicles to parcels that need to be delivered or maybe our brothers at Vaya are reading this and can co-opt that into their ecosystem. The bottom line is, in times like this we need to do what we do best as Zimbos and improvise. With that I say stay safe, stay productive and all the best.

About the Contributor

Gashirai Nyemba Gashirai Nyemba is a Digital Marketingf Specialist. His career started during his days as a student at Midlands State University (MSU). He started an interactive forum, an entrepreneurship hub at MSU and wrote articles in the Sunday mail to inspire youths into entrepreneurship. A self taught website designer, graphic designer, Gashirai has used his skills to climb the corporate ladder one company at a time.

GROOVE METER SETTING THE BAR HIGH

BRIAN SOKO The super producer with a resume that his Zimbabwean contemporaries can only dream of, shares music and his vision on forging a space for more African creatives on the global stage.

GROOVE METER : BRIAN SOKO

Representation matters when it comes to mainstream media. Africans have seen their flags flown high as they make strides on the international scene. Some of these names include Trevor Noah, Nomzamo Mbatha, Wizkid, Tiwa Savage, and Burna Boy, to name but a few. Zimbabwe holds its own stake with names such as Danai Gurira, Tongayi Chirisa, Makho Ndlovu and David Alford. On the music landscape, one of the biggest names out of the 263 is Brian Soko. Brian made history as the first young Zimbabwean to win a Grammy award. His impressive resume includes working with Beyoncé, Lil Wayne, Tinashe, Nicki Minaj, Wiz Khalifa, Cassper Nyovest, K.O., MaE and Chad da Don. In addition to the impressive songwriting and production credits, he is part of the Anashe Media Group. The company is family run with brothers Arnold and Prince Soko focused on the African music and entertainment sector. Brian has set his eyes on being his own artist by releasing several singles. At the time of this interview, Brian Soko had just released the single 'Moola'. He has since then released several singles including ‘Champagne & Shisha’, ‘Runway Walk’, ‘Don’t Like Me’, ‘Valentino’, and the collaboration with Blaq Pages and Nick & Navi on 'Whistle n Whine'. What makes Brian Soko the hottest export from the African continent? Check out our interview with the super producer and artist.. GMI: Welcome to Groove Magazine, this interview has been a long time coming. Congratulations on your fourth Grammy win, how are you feeling?

GMI: You are based in what would probably be entertainment's capital, the USA, what have been the advantages and challenges of your current location for your career?

Brian: I feel great thank you very much, appreciate you guys and love the work you are doing.

Brian: I live in LA now which is the entertainment capital of the world. The benefits are that most record labels have an office here and most artists come here a few times a year, so it’s amazing having people from around the world come to you instead of having to chase after the talent. The only negative side is the cost of living is very high and the traffic is ridiculous.

GMI: Speaking of the Grammys, some of our audiences aren't aware of your list of achievements on the global scene, please share your production and songwriting credits to date? Brian: I’ve worked on a quite few projects but the biggest ones I have worked on so far are Beyoncé’s ‘Beyoncé ” album where I did 'Drunk In Love' and 'Jealous'. I also worked on Drake's “Nothing was the Same” album. I did “305 to my City”, “Own It” and “Paris Morton Music 2/Pound Cake” Lil Wayne “No Worries” and locally Cassper Nyovest “Phumakim”, K.O. “Mission Statement” 7 Chad Da Don “EFT”.

GMI: As both a Zimbabwean and African on the global stage, what's the best advice you could offer Africans trying to penetrate the international market? Brian : I would say social media is your best friend best friend and you never know who is going to see your content so try to make unique and interesting content, upload it and see what happens and be consistent. Keep dropping music, and videos of whatever you do.

GMI: What other producers, songwriters and/or artists have been pivotal inspirations for your career?

GMI: What is distinctive about a Brian Soko, or AMG production?

Brian: My early inspiration came from the African/Zimbabwean greats of the 9’ 0s, such as Oliver Mtukudzi, Simon Chimbetu, Chicco Twala, Lucky Dube and so on. The music you listen to growing up is typically the music your parents listen to.

Brian: I'm not sure we have a distinct sound and I think the fact that we are always changing and every release is a new experience for the listener is what makes it different. Being creative is inevitably about taking risks.

GMI: Can you describe, briefly, your creative process for a musical project? Brian: I don't have a set process, I usually analyze the artist I'm working with, their previous releases and then I decide what vibe and tempo I think they're missing. Then I start on chords and ideas and the last thing I do is usually Drums and Bass but that's not set in stone. GMI: What proudly Zimbabwean element do you share in your projects or branding? Brian: I suppose my name “Soko” when I decided to become an artist I was thinking about a good name and I couldn't think of anything better than my actual last name “Soko”. I speak fluent Shona and Ndebele and have been writing songs lately in both languages. GMI: Do we expect more Zimbabweans on your roster in terms of production and artist management? Brian: Yes, of course, you already know about Jazz Prosper and YoungNash. I work all the time with my peers and good friends Mr. Kamera and British-based producer Troy Picasso. GMI: Whilst on the subject of Zimbabwean creatives, which Zimbabwean artist do you believe has the potential to level up to global status?

GROOVE METER : BRIAN SOKO

Brian: I just discovered Hillzy and I really like what he's doing, he's definitely somebody to watch. GMI: With the current shift towards Africa, how can African creatives use their talents and skills to have a seat at the table with other 'superstars' or 'moguls' in the entertainment business? Brian : The phrase content is King/Queen comes to mind, I think if you make short digestible versions of your music i.e. 60-second videos for Instagram and TikTok/Triller videos it makes it easier for your song to go viral. GMI: Fans are getting more of Brian Soko's music including the recently eleased 'Moola'. Can we expect you to move from behind the scenes to become a full-fledged artist?

Brian: Yes, last year was a transitional year for me and I have focused more of my time on my own music and projects. Even as a producer when I work with artists if I'm writing on the song I try to leave my vocals on it as a featured artist.

dropping my debut project at the top of next year. As always, keep a lookout for Jazz Prosper and YoungNash new material.

GMI: What do you prefer, being a songwriter/producer, or being an artist, and why?

Brian : Keep an eye out for new music and new videos from me and the Anashe team and please follow me on Youtube and Instagram.

Brian : Right now I prefer being an artist because it's a new experience for me and I have more control as I get to make all the decisions. GMI: What's the next level for Brian Soko, and Anashe Media Group in 2020 and beyond? Brian: I will be dropping a lot of music this year, I have two collaborative projects scheduled for this year and hopefully will be

GMI: Thank you for the interview, any parting words for your fans?

Soko7 @soko.7

Groove Meter is a feature where we look at Africa's trending, hit making, chart topping and award-winning entertainers. Follow Groove Magazine International on all social media platforms and stay updated on the latest African features.

ALBUM REVIEWS

EDITOR'S CHOICE

Beyoncé:Black Is King Review The Lion King challenged Beyoncé’s storytelling through music when she created 'The Gift'. Committed to black empowerment whilst connecting to Africa, she accompanied the project with her second visual album, 'Black Is King'. The follow up to 2016's 'Lemonade', the visual album reimagines 'The Lion King' with Afro futuristic elements combined with several African styles. In addition, Queen Bey brought on African creatives, actors, musicians and even cinematographers to pay homage to the African diaspora. With Beyoncé as the ethereal narrator, the album opens with Beyoncé by the sea, holding a baby, as she sings 'Bigger'. The visuals then follow the story of the young male protagonist who is 'Simba', as he makes his journey. Each song is accompanied with its own creative visual. From the clean white background, to the African dessert, sea, mansions and scenic cities, each song offers the dynamic aspect of what it means to be 'Black'. Queen Bey also makes it a family affair with features from husband Jay Z on 'Mood 4eva', daughter Blue Ivy and best friend, Kelly Rowland on 'Brown Skin Girl', as well her mother, Tina Knowles-Lawson. and twin children, Rumi and Sir. Throughout the visuals, images of Beyoncé as the Virgin Mary figure can be seen. This could be interpreted as Africa being the mother giving birth to the world's 'salvation'. Looking at the history of the continent and black people, and those of colour in the diaspora, there is the narrative that economies, nations and even mainstream culture is off the backs of Africa and those of African descent. 'Ready', 'Water' and 'My Power' showcase African choreography. 'Don't Jealousy Me', 'Ja Ara E', and 'Keys to the Kingdom' put a spotlight on African entertainers. 'Brown Skin Girl' is yet another signature Beyoncé female empowerment anthem. Not missing out on ballads, Bey pours out on 'Other side' a lullaby set in a biblical Moses scene of separation. Taking us to church and acknowledging the past generations, 'Spirit' closes the 'Black Is King' film. The song showcases Beyoncé’s vocal range, in collaboration with a Gospel choir offering that Lion King, 'Circle of Life' effect. 'Black Parade’ is the album's 'Formation - a hip-hop infused black empowerment anthem.

Overall Review In a politically charged environment where race and identity are the conversation, Beyoncé found something to celebrate blackness. The visual album married the African diaspora need to find roots, and Africa's need for recognition in a positive light. The album visuals capture and celebrate the beauty and richness of African cultures with emotion and power. Rate: 4/5 Groove Speakers

Best R&B Albums

Mi Casa: We Made It Review How do you celebrate a decade in music? Mi Casa simply put it in a body of work titled, 'We Made It'. The group's fifth studio album came at a time when there was so much uncertainty in the world, but they made it. We had a front row seat to the group's album listening with Mi Casa's members explaining the creative process behind the project. 'We Made It' maintains the Afro House sound synonymous with Mi Casa whilst exploring pop, and Hip-Hop elements. Favourites off the album include 'Obsessed', 'Mamela', 'Chucks', and 'One Day' featuring Stilo Magolide. The hypnotic 'Banza & Pasty' trumpet is a dedication to Mo-T's father, the legendary Kgasoane Banza, of the South African Afropop band Mango Groove. The LP celebrates life, love and music reminding us that an attitude of gratitude can make a difference in the world. Rate: 3 1/2/5 Groove Speakers

Mile : This Too Shall Pass Review As predicted, Mile's music journey was predestined for something beyond Zimbabwean borders. After relocating to South Africa and signing to Sony Music, he's been churning out music that embodies his personality. As a follow-up to his 2017 LP, 'Trading Hours' comes 'This Too Shall Pass'. Taking his title from Milena Busquets' novel, Mile teams up once again with super producer, Verseless. The 20-track album takes a look at life with themes of faith, love and finding one self. The album is a Hip-Hop record with lyrical content that challenges the mainstream. With features from Ibtisem and Marcques, 'This Too Shall Pass' highlights Mile's strengths as a lyricist and musician.

Rate: 3 1/2/5 Groove Speakers

Best African Albums

Gemma Griffiths: Pamwe Review Gemma Griffiths moved from obscure artist of artist to mainstream sensation. From doing covers of 'Musarova Bigman', Jha Prayzah's 'Mdhara Vachauya' and 'Cynthia Mare's 'Zuva Rimwe' to making smash hits. Her feature collaborations with Winky D and DJ Stavo earned her several awards and mainstream recognition. Travel inspired Gemma Griffiths to put together a 5-track EP, 'Pamwe'. Meaning 'together', the project offers hope, unity and inspiration with each track. The EP was written and recorded on a journey of 500 days and over 24,000km through Africa. Featuring the previously released singles 'Ndinewe' and '263'. 'Pamwe' is an Afro Pop record that highlights Gemma 's versatility, and a scope into the singer-songwriter's passion for life.

Rate: 3 1/2/5 Groove Speakers

Simi : Restless II Review Simi pulled on our heartstrings with the visuals for 'Duduke'. She romanticized the love of her unborn child, with a captivating melody, and heartwarming lyrics. But Simi is an artist and pulls out a record worth the wait. She released her highly anticipated EP “Restless II“. Simi's distinctive and mesmerizingly soulful vocals are combined with sophisticated and sultry future-R&B, evocative Afrobeat elements, which highlighted an inspiring, rebirth of sound for Simi. The 6-track project, includes the previously released “No Longer Beneficial.” The project features husband Adekunle Gold, WurlD and Ms Banks‘, with production credits to Sess and Oscar. Rate: 3 1⁄2/5 Groove Speakers

Best EPs

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Next Level Issue 2021

Articles inside

SHIFTING THE DIGITAL SPACE

Next Level Issue 2021