Iowa
debut | In recent
months, Zimbabwe’s political and economic turmoil has thrust the turbulent
African nation into international headlines.
Based in the capital city of
Harare, Chiwoniso lives in the eye of that storm, observing firsthand as her
homeland struggles to overcome the legacies of colonialism, war,
social inequality and political oppression.
A devoted advocate of free speech, human rights and social justice,
Chiwoniso creates music that gives voice to the voiceless and speaks to the problems
and joys of the world around her. On Rebel Woman, her first
internationally released album in over 10 years, her soulful and deeply
personal songs offer messages of hope, inspiration and resistance, serving
notice that this gifted singer and songwriter merits recognition as one of
Africa’s greatest young talents.
While Chiwoniso’s musical influences range
from soul and R&B to reggae and rock, the entrancing sounds of the mbira
serve as a central underpinning for the songs.
Originating in the ancient Shona civilization of southern Africa, the mbira
is a musical instrument made of metal tines attached to a wooden board.
Players pluck the tines with their thumbs to create captivating interlocking
melodies, which have accompanied ceremonies and celebrations for countless
generations. While variations of the mbira exist across Africa, it is an
essential element of Zimbabwean music tradition and carries deep historical,
cultural and spiritual symbolism.
Chiwoniso has spent the last three years
working with producer Keith Farquharson on Rebel Woman. Recorded in
Zimbabwe, South Africa, England and Vermont, the album features some of
Southern Africa’s most respected musicians and an intriguing collection of
guests. The CD opens with the raw electric guitar riffs of “Vanorapa,” a
song about the healing power of the elders whose lyrical theme is matched by
a deep groove. Chiwoniso believes firmly in the power of traditional Shona
spirituality and the ability of the elders to heal people even after they
have died and entered the realm of the spirits. ”Vanorapa” is based on a
song her late father, musician and musicologist Dumisani Maraire, often
performed, adding to its emotional depth.
The album’s title track, “Rebel
Woman,” takes inspiration from a poem about the role of women in Zimbabwe’s
war for independence. Recognizing that artists play a special role in
society, she believes they must not be afraid to speak out against
injustice. “We have a responsibility. We are not bankers, we are not
doctors, we are not nurses. We have another part that we play in society
that must be done." ::
On a special double bill with Vieux Farka Touré
::
Tue Sept
23 | 7 pm Greene Square Park
| Cedar Rapids
Free admission | Donations welcome
Click here for directions to Greene Square Park Click here for a color flyer in
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