Inequality disadvantaging women in music

Munyaradzi Doma

Female artistes have the potential to fully participate in the growth of the country’s music industry but unfair treatment is hindering them from making their mark.

The was said by Afro-fusion musician Mitchelle Mupfumira who is known as Mimie the Vocalist in the music circles.

The talented songstress who worked with several musicians as a backing vocalist before pursuing a solo career, said women need to have the same support as that given to their male counterparts.

“I think there is still stigma and discrimination of women and the girl child which is really unfair for us because we also have what it takes to be the same if not better than our male colleagues.

“Female artistes can do it too, all we need is the chance and platform to showcase our talents and to show that the sky is the limit.

“We can bring also bring change through the message that we sing so we should get equal chances just like what is given male musicians.

“The music industry has ups and downs because you won’t experience an easy road but eventually we will get there because the hope will never fade; we will keep on trying until we achieve our goals and dreams,” she said.

Mimie the Vocalist who has worked with the likes of Juntal, Progress Chipfumo and Sasha since she started singing in 2016, decided to go solo in September this year.

And she now fronts the six-piece Plan B Band.

“I told myself that I was ready to make my own brand, to create the brand Mitchelle which can stand on its own.

“It’s been years since I started music and I’m happy I learnt a lot and I was fortunate to have learnt from music maestros who taught me a lot about the industry.

“For those seasoned musicians to have given me the opportunity means they have faith in me.

“It means they see me growing in the industry so all I want to do is to make them proud and above all music is my passion,” she added.

She is currently in studio working on a single which is set to be released soon.

At shows which she has been staging at various eateries in and around Harare, Mimie the Vocalist has been performing cover songs as well as her yet to be released material.