Acclaimed singer-songwriter Sha Sha has burst back onto the music scene with her much-anticipated single, “Ndawana.” This new release, centered on themes of growth and renewal, marks a thrilling comeback for the artist, who recently shared her personal evolution and future aspirations in an interview with IOL.
Following her early September announcement about the single’s release date, “Ndawana” officially debuted this past Friday, receiving an overwhelmingly positive response from fans. “It feels good to release music; it feels good to see people’s reactions to what’s out now,” she expressed, radiating excitement about her latest project.
Sha Sha, whose real name is Charmaine Shamiso Mapimbiro, attributes her return to the music industry to her ongoing journey of self-discovery. She feels a compelling need to share this transformative experience with her audience. “I believe that the time I’ve had with myself has helped me connect more deeply, to fall in love with who I am, and to bring that into my work,” she explains.
This hiatus allowed the amapiano vocalist to mature in every aspect of her life, making her more intentional about her choices. Her growth is palpable in “Ndawana,” which features local singer-songwriter Skyes and amapiano DJ Kelvin Momo. This single marks her first collaboration with Kelvin Momo, and Sha Sha takes a moment to honour her roots by incorporating her native Shona language in the opening verse.
“It’s part of who I am. I’m Shona from Zimbabwe, and if you listen to the record, I tapped into the Oliver Mtukudzi sound. The ad-libs and the guitar were very intentional; I wanted to bring that part of myself into my work,” she says, showcasing her cultural identity in the production.
The lyrics of “Ndawana” speak to the universal theme of love—finding “the one” and the hope they won’t break your heart. Yet, on a more personal level, the song emphasises the importance of self-love and finding oneself before seeking it in others. “It’s about embracing self-love before looking for love in someone else, letting that love overflow into every aspect of life,” Sha Sha reveals.
As she gears up for the future, Sha Sha shares that “Ndawana” is part of a larger body of work set to release next year, with another single and accompanying visuals expected later this year. Fans can anticipate a full album in 2025, making it an exciting time for the beloved artist and her devoted listeners.
