Harare, Zimbabwe | Leopatra Reid, better known by her stage name Just Leo, made a striking debut in Zimbabwe’s music industry with the release of her first single and music video, Kumm’awa.
The launch event took place on Saturday night at La Réunion Restaurant in Belgravia, marking the emergence of a fresh talent who celebrates Zimbabwe’s cultural and linguistic diversity through her music.
Kumm’awa distinguishes itself by being performed in Chichewa, one of the region’s less commonly spotlighted languages. At the event, Just Leo explained her artistic choice: “Zimbabwe is a tapestry of languages and cultures, and I wanted to highlight that diversity. Singing in Chichewa was a deliberate decision to honor and celebrate our shared Zimbabwean heritage.”
The track features a fusion of tribal rhythms and contemporary pop elements, with the renowned percussion ensemble Djembe Monks adding their distinctive beats to the production. This dynamic combination brings vibrancy and depth to the song, making it a celebration of both tradition and modernity.
The accompanying music video has also drawn widespread praise for its stunning visuals. Set against the backdrop of Victoria Falls, the video incorporates traditional attire, bold makeup, and synchronized choreography to create a powerful representation of pride and unity.
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Agga Nyabinde, Communications and Marketing Manager of the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), lauded the video’s artistry, describing it as exceptional and worthy of recognition at prestigious platforms like the National Arts Merit Awards (NAMAs).
Just Leo’s journey to this moment is the result of years of dedication and growth. Over the past decade, she has honed her craft through live performances in Victoria Falls and other areas, earning a reputation for soulful cover renditions.
These experiences have helped her develop her unique musical identity, which she now channels into creating original works such as Kumm’awa.
Her manager and mother, Sandra Gilbert, highlighted that Leo’s talent was evident from an early age. “Leopatra has always had an effortless ability to sing. Even as a child, her voice was remarkable. It’s inspiring to see her embrace her gift and use it to celebrate Africa,” Gilbert shared.
The launch event, attended by music lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and industry professionals, also provided a glimpse into Just Leo’s future plans. She hinted at the release of two new tracks in January and reiterated her commitment to composing music in multiple Zimbabwean languages. “There’s so much beauty in our languages, and I want my music to reflect that diversity,” she said.
Kumm’awa is now available on major streaming platforms, offering a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary sounds that captures the essence of African culture. By focusing on linguistic and cultural storytelling, Just Leo is positioning herself as an artist to watch, bridging the gap between heritage and modern music.
Her debut signals the arrival of a promising new voice in Zimbabwe’s music scene and serves as a celebration of the unifying power of language and culture. While her journey is just beginning, Just Leo’s artistry is already making an impact far beyond her home country.
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