Meet Bhila Manyabi, a storyteller with a passion for sharing Zimbabwe’s vibrant stories through music. Born and raised in the heart of Ekasi, Bhila’s sounds are a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage.

With his debut album Iphephandaba, released in 2023, he has been making waves in the music scene, and his nominations for Song of the Year and Outstanding Alternative at the Bulawayo Arts Awards (BAA) are a testament to his growing influence. Bhila (BM) chats in this exclusive with My Kasi Magazine editor, Tapiwa Rubaya (TR).

TR: Bhila, can you start by introducing yourself to our audience and sharing a bit about your musical journey?
BM: Bhila is a storyteller. I love telling stories and l believe Zimbabwe has so much going on that needs to be told. Growing up ekasi getting up to the noise of amathawutha (conductors) already you are introduced to a fascinating story to tell to the world .
That’s what inspired me to start creating music. I ventured into the music industry in 2023 with my debut album Iphephandaba. From there lve never looked back.

TR: Congratulations on your nominations for the BAA! What are your thoughts on being nominated for Song of the Year and Outstanding Alternative?
BM: l’m happy to be nominated honestly. Clearly it shows my work is being recognised and making an impact. Awards they are often pushing us to continue doing more they spark interesting conversations within the art sector which is something that creates a lot of traction and focus on our works locally.

TR: What is your take on performing at various events known as free gatherings like weddings and family functions. Can you share your thoughts on how they affect your career?
BM: In your 1st year of starting you will obviously do so many free shows. Its very normal and acceptable. Because you want to be known people book for someone they know. It is your way to put your music out there and market yourself. However it should at some point come to an end. You cant be Perfoming for free all time it kills ones career . I urge artist not to get used to it. Be calculative and strategic about it. Weigh weather does it raise your awareness or its now killing your brand. Or it has reached a stage whereby people are now taking advantage of tour desperation.

TR: There’s a perception that Matabeleland artists face challenges in getting opportunities to showcase their talent on international stages. Do you agree with this sentiment, and how do you think this can be addressed?
BM: It’s not only Matebeleland artist but Zimbabwean artist we are all not showcasing our works in international stages. We first need to have an industry collaborate with corporates to fund the arts sector create music that can be exported to the outside world. Then we can hit the international stage. For now our product is local.

TR: Your song “Emaweni” has been a huge hit, with fans singing along to it during your live performances. What was the inspiration behind this song, and what does it mean to you to see your music connect with people like that?
BM: Emaweni is love song mostly based on couples on long distance relationships. This is a common setup in Zimbabwe so many people do relate.

TR: You’re set to perform at the Ubuntu Culture Nights in December. What can fans expect from your performance, and how do you plan to make it an unforgettable experience?
BM: On my set l’m adding new exclusive songs with surprise features, thus it will be more special.

TR: How do you balance your creative vision with the commercial aspects of the music industry, especially when it comes to producing music that resonates with a wide audience?
BM: l just do me l don’t follow trends. I really don’t pay much attention to what the commercial aspe ts of music demands.

TR: Looking ahead to the new year, what are your goals and aspirations, both personally and professionally, and how do you plan to continue growing as an artist?
BM: More gigs making money and getting ready for 2027. Next year February l’m supposed to be dropping new baggers in my road of building up a superb catalogue.