Bulawayo has its own vibe.
Words by Alex Gwaze (Curator)
Questions by Alex Gwaze and Joanne Peters (Image Coach & Philanthropist)
Wherever you come from, if you arrive in Bulawayo and enter one of its entertainment hotspots, the first thing that will hit you is the Bulawayo vibe. It’s part cultural, part expressive, definitely creative, mostly vibrant. If you stay in one of those spots long enough, one artist you’ll hear mentioned is the Bulawayo Arts award (BAA) winner, Mzoe 7.
Born Paul Mzobanzi Mlauzi, Mzoe has always understood the importance of being rooted in his community. From his early days as a backing vocalist with Tys Records to the rise of House Rebels, his career has mirrored the evolution of Bulawayo’s heartbeat— a constant pulse that both honors the past and defines the present with its fusion of jit, house, kwaito, afropop and amapiano. Whether it’s through his music, his Iskipa Sika Gagagugu Wear fashion brand, or his advocacy for mental health awareness through his #MajitaLetsTalk initiative, Mzoe works for the people. Especially in Skies, where he is more than an artist — he is a symbol of continuity, a link between the generations who have shaped the city and those who will carry it forward. Today he stands as a staple of the contemporary musical scene of the city of Kings and Queens.
In a city where cultural figures come and go, Mzoe is someone whose story has already been muralised into its ever-changing narrative. Plus he has a deep understanding of the responsibility that comes with being an influential figure. This why we decide to talk to this Blues’ native, to gauge where he thinks the city is headed.
AG: Your journey started as a backing vocalist with Tys Records, alongside Blaqs, and later evolved into forming House Rebels. What lessons have you learned from stepping away from labels?
MS: Oh, I’ve learned so much! The biggest thing is that it’s vital to carve out your own path — starting your own journey is powerful. But at the same time, you’ve got to value teamwork; that’s what really builds your brand and keeps you grounded. Plus, you can’t go it alone forever, right?
JP: Teamwork makes the dreamwork – like your music. You blend several genres, like house, kwaito, and amapiano. If someone asked you, “What’s distinctly Zimbabwean about your sound?” what would you say?
MS: That’s a great question. I love fusing different styles, but the one thing that’s always present is the township vibe — our urban culture. And I’m all about keeping our local languages alive! I mix in Ndebele, Tonga, Nyanja, Ndau. I make sure to celebrate who we are, while still reaching the global audience. It’s like an international party with a local twist!
JP: Winning the BAA Best Male Artist was huge for you. But last year, the BAAs didn’t happen due to some concerns about the quality/quantity of work being produced. What’s your take on that?
MS: Matabeleland’s got so much talent, no doubt. What we really need are the right structures and resources to help bring that talent into the spotlight. We need proper PR, marketing, and promotion, both for the artists and the industry. In a nutshell — a cash injection! The talent is here, we just need the push to go further.
AG: “Amalanga Awafani” became a massive track for you, especially since it addresses mental health and resilience, especially for young men. Do you think we’re facing a crisis with men today?
MS: Mental health is a real issue in our communities, especially when you look at the suicide rates among men in Southern Africa. That’s why I created MajitaLetsTalk—an initiative to give men a space to share their struggles, have real conversations, and even get counseling. We need to break the stigma around talking about mental health. Men need to know it’s okay to not be okay sometimes.
JP: You also started Iskipa Sika Gagagugu Wear, for men. How does fashion play into your identity as an artist, and do you have any plans to expand your brand?
MS: Oh, fashion is everything, #fashionmaradona (laughs). It’s the best way to express who I am without saying a word. It ties into my music and tells my story. I’ve been investing in growing my fashion line, adding more merchandise like the IamWhoIam collection. So, stay tuned — there’s definitely more to come. It’s not just menswear. Fashion isn’t just about clothes, it’s about telling your story.
AG: You’ve done music, fashion, and even acting and presenting. Plus you’re also behind the scenes with choreography and marketing. Which side do you prefer: being on stage or behind the scenes?
MS: It’s like asking if I prefer cake or ice cream, both are sweet (laughs). But if I had to choose, I’d say behind the scenes gives me the most fulfillment. There’s something magical about bringing out the best in others. It takes a lot of patience, love, and courage — but when you see people shine, it’s all worth it.
AG: You’ve had the honor of having a mural of you painted by Ghetto Boozers in your community. What was it like to see your face on the wall, and what do you hope this recognition inspires in the next generation?
MS: Honestly, it was humbling and surreal. Being honored by Ghetto Boozers in this way made me feel like I’m actually making a difference in my community. Our people need heroes they can look up to and relate to, and I hope this mural inspires the next generation to not only dream big, but to outdo what we’ve done.
JP: You’ve shared the stage with legends like Wizkid, the late AKA, and Makhadzi. What’s been the most memorable part of those experiences?
MS: Every time I step on stage with these legends, I’m in awe. It’s not just about the performance, it’s about how much you can learn from them. I’ve picked up so much, especially the importance of humility and time management. Great artists aren’t just talented, they’re disciplined. If you can master those, you’re halfway there.
JP: Are there any artists, locally or internationally, that you’d love to collaborate with in the future?
MS: Oh, I’ve got a dream list! Albert Nyathi, for sure — he’s got such a unique style and depth. Holy Ten, Macala, Jah Prayzah — these are just a few of the artists I’d love to work with. The vibe would be next level!
AG: Finally, you’re involved in so many creative ventures beyond music. Can you share any dream projects or exciting plans we should look forward to?
MS: I’m all about telling our African stories, so I’m diving into film. I want to create movies that speak to our experiences, and tell our stories in the way only we understand. I’m also inspired by farmers — food security is crucial, and I’m hoping to get into farming one day. But, most importantly, I’ll continue with my community programs, especially helping fight drug abuse among the youth. My biggest passion is people, and I’m always looking for ways to uplift those around me.
In the end what Mzoe said about “looking for ways to uplift those around you” is something we all can do. In times of uncertainty, lending a hand to those around you can make a world of difference. Whether it’s offering a kind word, sharing resources, or simply listening, the small gestures of support create a ripple effect within our immediate community. Together, we can foster resilience, ensuring no one feels alone or overlooked, even when the world seems challenging. Helping others not only uplifts them but also strengthens the bonds that connect us all, reminding us that we are in this together.
Follow Mzoe Seven @MzoeSeven
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