Zazise: Make Yourself Known - Africa

Contributor Mukudzei Mlambo - Styra Yacho

Identity is important. That's probably the simplest way to put it. Identities and communities have become synonymous - moving in tandem as one seeks for deeper meaning of self. In many ways we identify ourselves through things dearest to us. Religion, career, and more.

Who one is - sets them on a path of layered introspection; paying homage to the inquisitive nature the human species is burdened with. Identity is the bedlam of Zazise Media. With its etymology from the Zulu language, later adopted to Ndebele, Zazise means "Make Yourself Known", "Introduce Yourself" or "Identify Yourself"

These three, in uncanny resemblance are the pillars of what Zazise Media is about. Modelled around celebrating the artistry of the unknown, we believe that every single artist we document has a Monalisa, Miriam Makeba and Cistine Chapel in them that'll make them known to the world. As self-proclaimed scouts of potential, we believe in extracting dormant talent and awakening sleeping giants. For that one artist who believes no-one cares. We are the 2nd play on the 34 total streams from that bedroom rapper's mixtape.

We don't carve out uncut gems, we illuminate them. Zazise is an urban music visual publication birthed out of the tragedy of under celebrated art. It was no surprise that the best performing video posted on the YouTube channel was a documentary on one of Bulawayo's most iconic voices in music - Lovemore Majaivana.

A ready-made star in his own right but one who encapsulates the old adage of a prophet not being welcome in his own home. His story was highly and emotionally charged as he explained how his tribal identity limited him to opportunities his Shona counterparts were availed. Be it performance fees or appreciation. This story inspired Zazise Media to pivot to a genre which yearned for unconstrained coverage.

"Make Yourself Known", "Introduce Yourself" or "Identify Yourself"

Not shying away from any challenge, we decided to fully document a genre that was underrepresented, under celebrated and underrated. A genre which when mentioned in barbershop debates, draws up tension and squinted faces, reeking of awkwardness. That's Zimbabwean hip hop for you.

What better way to embody the work that Zazise does than to be to be storytellers of the Zimbabwean hip hop culture. Not just in giving an overview to the casual observer but getting knees muddy to the intricacies and nuances that the genre commands for the hard core fanatic. We've cultivated nearly 1000 loyal subscribers in less than a year to this illuminating commentary.

We are passionate about telling the underdog's side of the story. Shining a light on gifted acts from marginalised provinces like the Matabeleland up to the Northern capital of Harare. Everyone - Africa - deserves a chance to make themselves known when they have art to share to the world and Zazise is here every step of the way to tell the story.