MILLICENT HUNGWE
In the zesty hills of Chipinge, where music often serves as a heartbeat for daily life, a young artist Tapiwanashe Gwaze (19) is making waves with a message rooted in truth, resilience, and rhythm.
A bold, emerging voice in Zimbabwe’s music scene, whose lyrical authenticity and genre-blending creativity have begun carving a unique space for him in the world of rap.
From a young age, Tapiwanashe was drawn to the emotional power of music, inspired by the way songs could communicate pain, joy, struggle, and triumph, he developed a dream not just to listen, but to create music that speaks.
“I feel like the energy I project in my music makes the difference,” he says. “Keeping it real and catchy in my sound is my style.”
He finished his form 4 in 2023 at Gaza High School and currently doing Robotics and electronics under a donor of Foundation Simukai, Young Africa and Oak Foundation.
Gwaze’s musical journey is heavily shaped by his deep-rooted love for rap, it was through this genre that he discovered an open playground for expression a space where he could explore and grow.
Over time, he became fluent in various musical styles, from Afro Pop Rap and Shona Rap, to experimental flows over Amapiano instrumentals.
His versatility continues to be one of his most defining strengths.
His influences range from international icons like Eminem, the globally celebrated lyrical genius, to homegrown talent like the Zimbabwean powerhouse duo Slyme Foxx & Icey Ekxyne, part of the OCD (Off Center Department) team.
These artists inspired Gwaze to embrace diversity in beats and to perfect his flow across genres.
But the road hasn’t been easy.
Like many upcoming artists, Gwaze has faced the real struggles of limited financial support.
Marketing his music and affording studio time are ongoing challenges yet his passion keeps him pressing forward, thanks to his loyal collaborator and producer Tinashe Mazuru, better known as Eyo Zoom, Gwaze continues to create and release music that reflects his heart and hustle.
Their 2025 track “With You”, released on April 17, stands as one of his proudest achievements a track born from vision and turned into a song that many find deeply relatable.
“Falling doesn’t mean failure,” he emphasizes. “Life is beautiful, but it’s also real.” And in this duality, he paints vivid musical portraits of the world around him.
His songs are reflections honest, grounded, and inspiring.
In 2024, he released his debut Extended Playlist, “PHASES”, a 6-song project available on YouTube. The EP chronicled emotional and personal experiences, giving listeners a window into his world.
Now, he’s gearing up for another big step the release of his second EP, “Just Getting Started,” dropping on July 15, 2025, with 5 brand-new tracks, this project signals not just his persistence, but his evolution as an artist with a growing message and audience.
Music is also in his blood. Gwaze credits his mother, a powerful singer in church for teaching him vocal projection and the discipline of performance.
He told the press that his dream, one day collaborate with her, bringing their shared passion to life in a track that honors both family and faith.
Looking ahead, Tapiwanashe sees no ceilings, in the next two to three years, he envisions himself breaking records, releasing albums, and selling out arenas.
His ambition is matched only by his sincerity. “I want my career to be able and to stand out,” he affirms.
With a voice full of raw emotion, a message rooted in truth, and a determination that defies circumstance, Gwaze is not just another artist on the rise, he’s a storyteller, a fighter, and a new leader in Zimbabwe’s next generation of music.
He is one of the upcoming artists to perform on the first edition Mix and Mingle Masvingo on August 30 at the home of entertainment in the ancient city, Caravan Park.
