Jazz and Afro folk singer Raven Duchess blends melodies with meaning

Raven Duchess is a multifaceted musician whose musical tapestry includes classical jazz, soul and Afro folklore. Not only is she a soulful singer, she is also a multi-instrumentalist. The journey that has brought her here began in 2013 when she was inspired by her older sibling.

Throughout her career, she has collaborated with artists from across the world including, the Americas, Europe and across Africa. Her talent has also afforded her the chance to perform on stages across the world including Canada, South Africa and many platforms across her native Zimbabwe.

With two albums under her belt (‘Ethno Vibes’ being her debut album), her latest offering is titled ‘Folklore’. She has already begun work on her latest album which includes a collaboration with the famed South African based Zimbabwean musician Louis Mhlanga. Raven Duchess is busy preparing for three international festivals in which she will be representing her nation.

We stole a few minutes from her day to talk about her music, her upcoming performances and her latest album. ^{*(KM) Kudzai Mhangwa, (RD) Raven Duchess}

KM: Your musical journey as Raven Duchess began back in 2013. What was your call to becoming a musician?

RD: I have always been a poet and my songwriting skills combined with the soulful voice empowered me to tell my African stories musically. I love taking my audience on a mystical musical journey every time I perform.

KM: Had you grown up wanting to be a musician from a young age?

RD: No, I am grateful that I ventured into the arts industry. My first encounter with music was when I overheard my older brother playing marimba. I couldn’t sleep that night; I could hear the music in my head until I woke up the next morning and started playing what I was hearing. It was like the music was speaking to me and I resonated with it.

KM: How has your musical journey look like thus far?

RD: Exciting, adventurous and I enjoy collaborating with musicians from all over the world. I am grateful and thank all the people that have supported me by attending my shows, purchasing my albums and sharing my music.

KM: How would you describe your music?

RD: A jazz and Zimbabwean folk fusion alternative vibe that resonates with all ages and ethnicities.

KM: Who have been your greatest musical influences?

RD: The late Ella Fitzgerald and Erykah Badu. I love that soulful vibe.

KM: Your latest album is tilted ‘Folklore’. What was the inspiration behind that and what can listeners expect from the album?

RD: My second album ‘Folklore’ was a fusion of jazz and mbira folk music. I had just returned from my South African tour last year and wanted to create this album including collaborations I did with some South African musicians. There will be a new third album coming out this year.

KM: You are also set to represent Zimbabwe at three international musical festivals this year. A big congrats to you. Tell us more about your upcoming performances.

RD: Thank you. I will be representing Zimbabwe at the Music Imbizo Film and Music festival in Durban (South Africa), Urban Music People festival in Cape Mangochi Malawi and Bayimba International Arts Festival in Uganda.

KM: You are also working on your third album. How is work on that going and what can we fans (including me) expect from your upcoming offering?

RD: It will definitely be a timeless work of art. I produced all my albums and I have always been very hands on and particular about making sure the quality is up to international standards. 

KM: I also saw a little post on some social media platform (wink, wink) that talked about your collaboration with Louis Mhlanga (famed Zimbabwean musician based in South Africa). That’s huge! How did working with him come to be and how was it like working with him?

RD: Yes. He added me to his CNN documentary as a guest artist who he has collaborated with. I’m honoured and grateful. We met up in Johannesburg when I was on tour over coffee discussing this collaboration. He is a living legend and one of the most iconic guitarists.

KM: Where you ever nervous working with him?

RD: Not at all, he was very kind and the collaboration was organic. 

KM: You have been privileged to work with artists around the world and also to perform across the world. How would you compare the international market versus the Zimbabwean market?

RD: Internationally your talent will always speak for you. Locally I feel we need more promoters who promote original Zimbabwean music and give equal opportunities to those who have the talent and can represent Zimbabwe internationally.

KM: What are your hopes for the music industry in Zimbabwe?

RD: Inclusion of more female musicians regarding sponsorship especially those who are representing Zimbabwe but are not being supported so they keep on flying the flag high.

KM: A huge congrats on your glowing achievements Raven. Any final words for the readers?

RD: Check out my music on all streaming platforms (Folklore by Raven Duchess – DistroKid) and to any aspiring musicians take your time and perfect your craft.

Raven Duchess’ original sound and creativity sets her apart from other musicians. A listen to her music and her music videos are representative of her unique take on music and her artistry.