In our fast-paced, digital world, music often serves as a bridge across generations. Recently, while curating my Apple playlist, I had a profound experience that illuminated the role of music in preserving culture. My 18 year old daughter, seemingly out of nowhere, sang along to Joan Osborne’s “One of Us,” chuckling as she noted it was her first time hearing that version. When I asked how she knew the words, she casually replied, “You perform the song all the time.”

As a musician, this blew me away. I suddenly realised the role that I had in influencing the next generation. It sparked a cascade of questions about the other artists on my playlist—Tracy Chapman, Maroon 5, Natalie Imbruglia—but none resonated with our local Zimbabwean context.

This realization prompted me to reflect on our responsibility in shaping the cultural landscape for future generations. Could the absence of local music in my playlists be a reason my daughter is less familiar with Zimbabwean artists? It appears so. As parents and cultural custodians, we play a crucial role in ensuring that our children engage with and appreciate our local heritage.

Zimbabwe, with its rich tapestry of languages, traditions, and artistic expressions, boasts a vibrant creative industry. However, many younger generations are increasingly disconnected from their cultural roots, often gravitating toward international music that dominates global charts. This phenomenon raises an urgent question: How can we promote a strong Zimbabwean identity in music and the arts?

A strong cultural identity is essential for fostering pride and belonging among our youth. When children hear local music, they connect with the stories, struggles, and triumphs of their own people. This connection can inspire creativity, encourage participation in local arts, and foster a sense of responsibility to carry on these traditions.

Ways to Cultivate Local Cultural Engagement

• Curate Local Playlists: As parents and guardians, we can consciously create playlists that feature local artists alongside international ones. By integrating songs from diverse Zimbabwean musicians and (now there are plenty to choose from with all styles and genres depending on your taste,) we can introduce our children to the sounds and stories of their heritage.
• Attend Local Performances: Supporting local musicians by attending concerts and festivals not only enriches our cultural experience but also sets an example for our children. Engaging with live performances can ignite a passion for local music and arts.
• Share Stories Behind the Music: Contextualizing songs can deepen appreciation. Share stories about the artists, the meaning behind their songs, and how their music reflects Zimbabwean culture. This storytelling approach can make the music more relatable and impactful.
• Incorporate Local Music into Daily Life: Whether it’s playing local music during family gatherings, using it as background during meals, or even incorporating it into daily routines, making local music a part of everyday life can foster a natural connection.
• Encourage Participation in the Arts: Support your children in exploring their creative expressions. Whether through music, dance, or visual arts, encouraging them to partake in local art forms helps them appreciate and contribute to their culture.
• Leverage Technology: Utilize platforms like social media to discover and share local talent. Many Zimbabwean artists use these platforms to reach wider audiences. Sharing their work can help promote a sense of pride and community.

There are many complexities that we have to navigate as we go on our everyday business, but as we do that, it’s crucial to remain intentional about passing on our culture and heritage through whatever medium is available to you. By making conscious choices in how we engage with music and the arts, we can nurture a generation that values and embraces its Zimbabwean identity. Let’s not forget that every song, every note, and every performance is a thread in the rich fabric of our cultural heritage. It’s our responsibility to weave these threads into the lives of our children, ensuring that they carry forward the legacy of our vibrant artistic expression for years to come.