KUDZAI CHITSATSO
TWENTY-five year old gospel songstress Ashley Kudzaishe Kadawo has released her debut single titled ‘I Shine,’ marking the start of her solo career.
Kadawo picked up music at a young age, singing in her church choir well into adolescence. In 2021, she decided to pursue music professionally, starting out as a backing vocalist.
To date, she has lent her voice to some of the most influential gospel artists both within and outside of Zimbabwe; including Nyasha Mutonhori, Minister Ellard Cherai, Sharon Manyonganise, and Minister Michael Mahendere.
Her experience extends to international collaborations with South Africa's Sbu Noah, Takie Ndou, Zaza Mokhethi, and Sipho Makhabane ,Omega Khunou, among others. Kadawo credits these mentors for shaping her artistry and providing invaluable lessons in her musical development.
Transitioning from a supporting role, Kadawo is now stepping into the spotlight as a solo artist, guided by a clear vision for her ministry. This new chapter is marked by her debut single, 'I Shine,' a deeply personal anthem that addresses the universal struggles of life. The song, which speaks of finding light amid darkness, is inspired by her own testimony and aims to inspire listeners to recognize their own potential to shine.
Speaking with ZimSphere, Kadawo revealed that the idea for ‘I Shine’ came to her in a vision back in 2021, a time when she was dealing with many challenges in her life.
"The idea for this song, I got it from a vision in 2021. At the time, I was in the middle of so many troubles and challenges and I was praying that God wondering if l would overcome these challenges. I then saw the whole world filled with darkness, representing challenges and difficulties of life, and I said to God ‘How do I overcome this?’
“He said to me, ‘Look up.’ When I did I saw a very small light and I heard ‘This is you!’ This meant that no matter how small you are or how hopeless you are, light always overcomes darkness."
Beyond music, Kadawo is also a dynamic businesswoman and budding philathropist. She is the founder of Ashine Beauty Shop, a cosmetology enterprise based at Karigamombe Center in Harare. She has expanded her business to include a non-profit organization that provides free beauty courses to young women. This initiative highlights her dedication to creating opportunities and fostering self-sufficiency, mirroring the message of hope in her music.
You can watch the official video for ‘I Shine’ below and share your thoughts:
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