Ropah is a Zimbabwean singer dedicated to honing her craft and collaborating with some of Zimbabwe’s most prominent artists. She was featured on the song “Kana Ndada” from Michael Magz’s album “Canaan” and has also released her own song titled “Enemies,” which expresses the emotional complexity of a former relationship.
Her latest single, “Mavanga,” came out in mid-July. Additionally, Ropah is a Certified Marketer and a make-up artist. We had the opportunity to speak with Ropah to gain more insight into her work. *KM – Kudzai Mhangwa, RP – Ropah
KM: Introduce Ropah to the world if you would.
RP: Ropah is short for my full name, Ropafadzo Anointed Guveya. I’m twenty-five, turning twenty-six this year, and I am the eldest of six children. I grew up in Chinhoyi and began singing at a very young age.
KM: When did you start venturing into music, and what were your earliest musical experiences?
RP: I began exploring music very early on. My dad was into music and played bass and acoustic guitar at church. I would accompany him to praise and worship rehearsals and started singing as soon as I could speak. I remember attending church with him, where he played, others sang, and I joined in, even though I could barely talk at the time (laughs).
KM: How has the journey been so far?
RP: The journey has been somewhat tough. It’s not easy to pursue music in Zimbabwe, especially without connections. It can get expensive and overwhelming, but my love for music drives me to keep going, no matter how hard it gets.
KM: You recently worked with Michael Magz on his album “Canaan” where you featured on the song “Kana Ndada.” How was it like working with him?
RP: Working with Michael Magz was fantastic. We were in university together, so it was great collaborating with him. He’s very talented and handled everything for the song “Kana Ndada,” from making the beat to the production. It was an enjoyable and memorable experience, definitely a highlight of my music journey.
KM: Your latest release is titled “Enemies.” I was really impressed by your work. What was the inspiration behind that song?
RP: “Enemies” is based on a true story (laughs). It reflects a past relationship where, despite the breakup and the pain, I couldn’t bring myself to hate or forget the person. The song captures that complex emotion, where hate feels like the closest thing to love, as forgetting seems impossible.
KM: What would you like to achieve in your music career?
RP: I want to take my music to a larger audience. Music is not just a hobby for me; it’s a deep passion. I want to create music that resonates with people, helping them feel understood and connected through shared experiences. I aim to be that artist whose music listeners can relate to and find solace in.
KM: What new projects are you working on?
RP: I’m currently working on a five-song EP, and I hope people will love it. That’s my main focus right now.
KM: Besides your musical talents, what are you into?
RP: Apart from work and music, I don’t have many other hobbies. Music consumes a big part of my life, but I do enjoy listening to other people’s music and appreciating their talents. I also like watching reality shows and getting plenty of sleep (laughs).
KM: What are your final words for readers?
RP: To all readers, especially those venturing into music, it won’t be easy, that’s the truth. I wish someone had told me this at the start of my journey. Despite the hardships and challenges, if you love it enough and pursue it with passion, you’ll eventually get your breakthrough. Keep going, have faith in God, and everything will work out in the end.