It is interesting when artists stand up for authenticity throughout their careers.

Rutendo Maregere goes by the stage name Frya, which was derived from Norse mythology. Freyja (Old Norse for “the Lady”) is a goddess associated with love, beauty, fertility, gold, and war. These various elements are on full display as you go through Frya’s catalogue of music, a blend of gut-wrenching R&B melodies and dance-along beats. Her lyrics are raw, honest, and even vulgar at times. Frya’s work is appreciated and stands out in an industry filled with many talented artists.

Frya was born in Zimbabwe and raised in different parts of the world, including Sudan and Europe. She is currently based in South Africa. She released her EP Dots in 2019, which includes singles such as Roses, a powerful track accompanied by an alluring music video. The five-track EP also features the single Walls, a piano-backed song in which the protagonist seeks to learn how to love despite her reservations.

Her debut album Balance was released in 2021 and is a powerful fusion of the many influences she gathered from around the world. The album explores themes such as femininity, romantic love, female desire, and sensuality. It also carries a parental guidance warning. The songstress does not shy away from explicit lyrics, as seen in the single B.D.E., which is delivered with bold confidence and an unapologetic showcase of feminine power. She also displays her versatility with the reggae-inspired track titled Fire, Fire.

Frya was discovered online when her cover of an Adele single caught the attention of an executive at SABC, leading to a commission to record the title track for the show Side Dish.

She also recorded the theme song for the popular Netflix series Blood and Water. Her music has been featured in television shows such as The River, Jiva, and in films including Glamour Girls and Fight Like a Girl.

Throughout her decorated career, she has also been featured in singles by Zimbabwean dancehall icon Winky D, including Akayenda, which earned over a million views on YouTube. Frya has also collaborated with multi-award-winning singer Nutty O on the single Concern.

The talented musician’s latest release is her EP Lifetimes, a lush body of work that showcases her continued musical growth and prowess. With a catalogue that spans Afrobeats, Afro-pop, soul, and R&B, and features in numerous international television shows and films, Frya has carved a brand poised to stand the test of time.

Her vocal performance can be aggressive, soothing, soulful, and everything in between. Perhaps the goddess whose name she adopted plays some influence in the distinct style the singer dons.

Whatever the case may be, Frya deserves the spotlight and great respect for the passion and effort she pours into her craft.