VERSATILE United States -based artist and producer Panashe “African Cowboy” Mugadza has just dropped an amapiano project which was inspired by his visit to Zimbabwe three years ago.
Mugadza, who graduated from the Savannah College of Art and Design with a specialisation in sound design, is determined to shape and redefine the boundaries of music.
Our Lifestyle Writer Progress Chaya recently spoke to the Atlanta based star and discussed a number of issues including the just-released amapiano mixtape.
Below are the excerpts of the interview:
Question (Q): You pride yourself on venturing into new music spaces, do you have any project which we can look forward to?
A: I just dropped an amapiano mixtape called ‘Diaspora Babies’ inspired by a trip I took to Zimbabwe in 2020 for the first time since I, together with my parents, migrated to the US in 1999. My uncle introduced me to amapiano, and I was moved by the rhythm and melodies. The world needs more melodies and I’m here to provide as much as God sends through me. I also have two self-produced mixtapes called ‘Destiny 1’ and ‘Destiny 2’. ‘Destiny 1’ is out, and it is now found on all streaming platforms. Destiny 2 is set to be released on April 30.
I also have a new single called ‘Lucky’ released on all music streaming platforms on April 23. I am really happy about this one because people have been asking for it to be uploaded to DSPs, so I finally did it. I also have a mixtape called ‘Addicted to Music’ that I am planning to release on May 4.
Q: Can you tell us about your musical background and what inspired you to pursue a career in music?
A: I have always been passionate about music since I was a child. I learned how to walk by always trying to dance when music came on. Church also played a major role; I grew up in a household where going to church was not an option.
What made it fun for me was being able to show up early when it’s only deacons making sure everything is clean/setup and I would play with every instrument until it was time for prayer. As I got older I nurtured my talent by saving and investing in studio equipment when I was 15 and never stopped creating since.
Q: What sets your music apart from other artists in the industry?
A: I am self-sufficient! I produce most of my music, write, and engineer. Most importantly, I love music and I love learning. I want to make great money, but money isn’t the motivation.
I’m obsessed with making the best music I can before I leave the earth. There is no time to waste – like Tupac and Kanye. I also believe in the power of staying true to self in terms of the character and message I promote.
Q: How would you describe your sound and the themes you explore in your music?
A: I would describe my sound as motivational and eclectic. I promise if you listen to my entire catalogue every day and really listen to what I’m saying while feeling the energy there is no way you won’t want to elevate to a better version of yourself and get money.
Q: What challenges have you faced in breaking into this new market, and how have you overcome them?
A: The biggest challenge is staying focused and consistent about going the hardest I can in making great music while still handling financial responsibilities that come with being an adult. I consistently remind myself hard work always pays dividends. The results of the work put in today may not show immediately but if I continue to stay persistent it will give me the advantage I need to be great.
Q: What are your goals and aspirations as a musician in this new market?
A: My goal is to build a strong fan base of supporters who can grow with me and my music so we can essentially grow up together. I want to be able to run into people that have a connection with my music to feel like they’ve known me their whole life. That’s the best relationship; when the artist and the supporters are a family.
