Interview with Singer/Song writer Nyemba

Maria Nyemba , know simply as Nyemba ,is one of Zambia’s most unique and refreshing artists. With her enthusiasm, Lyrical, Vocal and song writing edge , the 29- Year old (born 27th October, 1986) female is the headline artist on Independent record label Ikonik Music, has gone from strength to strength in forging a formidable performance with her ability to express herself by using her talent in music. This has led to a lot of expectations from everyone that hears her unique sound both in the industry and listeners. She has collaborated with a number of local artists such as; Cactus Agony, Dandy Krazy , Tyce, B-flow , Maureen Lilanda ,Cleo ice Queen only to mention the few. Nyemba released her debut E.P ‘Mutima Wanga’ earlier this year . The E.P is available in local music stores and on Itunes .

Her charisma and energy in the studio and in person has led to regular support from fans. Having opened for the likes of Zahara at Mulungushi International conference Centre and Fally Ipupa at the Lusaka Show Grounds, she has not looked back since and has become an ever growing name in the country. Nyemba is looking to build a reputation not only for the quality and creativity of her musical production but also for the quality of her videos that have stormed the internet and television. With unforgettable flow, infectious lyricism and an unwavering ambition to be the best, Nyemba is quickly developing into one of the country’s most promising musical talents.

KAPA187: Tell us about yourself.

Nyemba: I’m a singer song writer signed to Ikonik music; I do afro pop and R&B!!

KAPA187: Who are some of the artist that you look up to, both local and international?

Nyemba: The artists that I look up to here in Zambia are the ones that have been around and year after year still entertaining the crowds; Maureen lilanda, afunika, king dandy, slap d the list goes on! Internationally Brandy, beyonce, Whitney Houston, babyface, I could go forever but 90s music played a big role in my decision to become an artist

KAPA187: This year you released your debut E.P “Mutima Wanga”. What was the concept behind it and how was the process of creating it.

Nyemba: Initially my focus was on women issues because being a young woman I’ve seen women going through stuff and really not talking to anyone about their problems, me and my producer, DJ Lo, wanted to talk about women issues but in a fun way so instead of the songs being boring and somber we made them into danceable songs! The process was interesting I got to know more about my capabilities to push my voice and self

KAPA187: On one of the songs from the E.P, “Amama”, you worked with the legendary Maureen Lilanda. How was that experience, what did you learn from her.

Nyemba: It was very humbling to have her work with me on a song that was dear to my heart, which me and Michael wrote for my late mum she taught me it’s ok to be nervous and never to be too confident

KAPA187: A song that I really enjoy on the E.P is “Hello”. What is the song all about?

Nyemba: Hello I co-wrote with Dj Lo, it is the only love song on the project it was just a way to appreciate the love a woman feels for a man.

KAPA187: Having done some high quality videos for your singles, how important is it for artists to have a good video to go along with great music.

Nyemba: Videos are very important as people have become advanced with technology, everyone is on social media so it’s easier to get yourself out into the world visually more and with good videos you get to have your videos on international channels like MTv base where my videos have been recognized and played.

KAPA187: Your current single Yelele Remix featuring Cleo Ice Queen and Bombshell is on heavy rotation on most radio stations. What is the song about and how do the aforementioned artists add to the song.

Nyemba: The song is about celebrating a woman who’s hardworking and strong and goes through tough times but always gets back up again to achieve better things in life. Cleo and bombshell jumped on without hesitation as they understood my eagerness to show that women can actually work together and celebrate one another! They are both strong hardworking young women who have really inspired me to work harder and never stop pushing

KAPA187: There are a number of female artists in the country, but the music industry is still male dominated. What do you think Female artists, such as yourself, need to do in order to create more of an impact?

Nyemba: I think the first thing is getting together and supporting one another in any way possible even just posting something that someone’s working on or doing shows together and just having a better mindset not thinking that the person will steal your shine! We don’t have to be competition at all.

KAPA187: Zambian music is slowly but surely getting recognition internationally, what in your opinion needs to be done to accelerate the process?

Nyemba: Supporting one another as artists and working together to get Zambia out into the world.

KAPA187: If you were tasked to complete an album within a week, which four producers and four artists would you choose to complete it with in the short space of time and why?

Nyemba:

Producers

1. Dj Lo he’s taught me a lot about myself and always pushes me to my limit!

2. tony breezy not only is he cute Lol but he’s produced some of the best songs ever

3. Tsean he’s very creative and he doesn’t stick to one sound

4. Raydo he’s also made some of the biggest hits in Zambia.

 And the Artists

1. Afunika talent beyond amazing great song writer

2. chef he’s one of my favorite artists and as well amazingly talented with he’s writing

3. Kaladoshas he’s passionate and a perfectionist when it comes to he’s craft

4. Bombshell her voice is just crazy she’s a mix of lil Kim and foxy brown.

KAPA187: As 2015 comes to a close, what have been some of your highlight of this year?

Nyemba: My highlights first going to Zimbabwe performing live and the great legendary Oliver Mtukuzi watching and clapping for me. 2nd being recognized by fellow artists in the industry where now I don’t have to introduce myself every other time Lol , and being nominated as upcoming artist Born and Bred awards I cried !

KAPA187: What can your fans expect from you in 2016 and beyond?

Nyemba: My fans should expect nothing but the best, I’ve grown as an artist and this time around my music will be happy and danceable .This time people should expect a whole new side of me crazy good and I’ll definitely be dancing a lot.

KAPA187: Any last words for your fans…

Nyemba: My last words would be thank you to every person that supported and listened to my music Nyemba surely will only be better and bring only the best! Zikomo kwambili

THE MUSIC

Yelele
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qe_t69ZwxyU
Mutima Wanga

Ijah Nkhani
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9HW_jp7sLqw
Hello

Yelele (Remix)

BY KAPA187