Breaking the Silence: Tererai Mugwadi on Her Hiatus from Music

Tererai Mugwadi

 From her unforgettable hits like "Waenda" and "Sands of Time" to her electrifying collaboration with Alexio Kawara on "Tinodanana", Tererai Mugwadi's music is nothing short of legendary.

A powerhouse vocalist who has left an indelible mark on the country's musical landscape, is back with a brand new video for  "Masendeke" a collaboration with Maskiri.

In an exclusive interview with The Daily Reflections with Winnie, Tererai shares her journey to success, her creative process, her views on the current state of the music industry in Zimbabwe  and a sneak peak of what the future holds for her

What is the secret behind the chemistry between you and Maskiri when it comes to making music? Can you walk us through your creative process.

Tererai Mugwadi: Good question! I've known my brother for 21 years now, and we both started our careers around the same time. The urban grooves movement was a group of young people who shared a common vision and worked together to put out positive music and messages while making a living.

Our chemistry is very real, and I consider him to be like a brother to me. He has always respected me, and I hold him in high regard as well. When we're in the studio, we share ideas and collaborate on songs. Sometimes he writes the chorus, and other times I do. We have 10 songs and 2 albums together, and that's how we've been working together.

Tererai and Maskiri

 Taking you back to the year 2020 when you announced that you where quitting music. What was going through your mind  at that time and what inspired you to make a comeback after sometime away?

Tererai: Ooh yes... uumh, I realized that the music industry had become very toxic. I believe that when God gave me the gift, the reason was for me to spread good messages and positivity.

However, at that time, it had become so toxic that I didn't have management, and I was basically running solo. From production houses to promoters, it was a toxic situation, and I think a lot of females were experiencing the same thing, but some were taking it. So, I didn't have a voice, and I felt like I was standing alone.

I just think it was that time when I needed to take a hiatus to take a break, do some introspection, rediscover myself, and relearn the things I liked and the things I aspired to do. Also, I realized that when you are going through a lot in relationships, with your children or family, you don't really take the time to feel those feelings.

I realized that I had a writer's block, and most of my music comes from my personal experiences. So, when I saw that I was failing to come up with anything solid, I realized that I needed to take a step back and really feel what I was going through. It has been a learning and healing process at the same time.

 I agree with you to a great extent. The industry  can be very toxic. But during that time did any other female artist reach out to you?

Tererai: Well, After I pulled back, I went to our farm and focused on my studies. I mostly spent time with my family and friends, and didn't really seek out any contact from people in the industry. Even if someone did try to reach out, I probably would have shut them out because I needed that space to clear my head.

 In your recent music video for Masendeke, you exuded a lot of fiery energy. How has your performance style evolved from your earlier work, such as Tererai from the 2000s to your current work in 2023?What changes have you made to your artistic approach?

Tererai: I am still the same person I have always been. When filming a video, it is necessary to follow a direction and embody a particular energy.

However, those who know me or have spent time with me can attest to my unchanged nature. I am a free spirit, easygoing, and relaxed. Although I am now 38 years old, I still maintain a youthful spirit and prioritize self-care.

It is crucial to surround oneself with positive people and maintain a healthy lifestyle. I cherish my peace and tranquility, and being on the farm provides a sense of calm and quiet that I love.

 

 Do you have any solo projects that you are working on right now?

Tererai: Definitely, I am in the studio. Our initial plan was to release more content as soon as possible.

However, I am cautious about rushing anything and putting out music prematurely. I have learned that the media can indirectly push you to present something before it is ready. Therefore, I am not working under pressure. My hope is that whatever unfolds will do so at the right time.

What is the worst thing about being a female musician?

Tererai: We live in a patriarchal society, regardless of how we choose to view it. Male artists often fail to understand the extent of their privileges.

I recall a specific incident where a male artist and I were both booked for a show, but he was double-booked. He then requested that I go to the Zvishavane show. However, upon arrival, I was met by a young man who demanded sexual favors in exchange for payment.

Such experiences underscore the importance of having representation in the industry, as promoters and producers will exploit female performers. It often seems as though talent alone is insufficient, and women are expected to compromise themselves to succeed.

Unfortunately, some women lack the self-assurance to recognize their abilities and accept invitations that compromise their dignity for monetary gain, ultimately jeopardizing the standing of all women in the industry.

What is your current playlist?

Tererai: I have a quirk where once a song makes it onto my playlist, it stays there indefinitely. For instance, I've had Ishan and Annatoria's songs on my list since they were released, and I'm a big fan of Baba Harare's 'Madhunamutuna', SZA, Libianca, and Aryya Star.

 What would you like to say to your fans?

Tererai: To all my fans, I want to express my gratitude for your unwavering support during the tough times we've been through. I believe it's high time we adopted a more positive outlook on life. Let's spread love, peace, and harmony wherever we go.

As for social media, I urge everyone to use it for the greater good. Sadly, some people use it as a tool to spread hate and cause harm to others, especially women. I have personally received messages from women who shared their stories of abuse and mistreatment on social media. It breaks my heart to see such callous behavior, which is why I implore all of us to treat each other with kindness and respect. We are all humans with feelings, after all.

Let's take a moment to reflect on our actions and their potential impact on others. Let's make the world a better place, one positive message at a time. Thank you!!