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Feli Nandi’s Muranda: A tribute to love and devotion

20 mar 2025 - 12:52

Published under the Creative Commons Licence

Zimbabwean artist Feli Nandi continues to charm fans following the release of her single, ‘Muranda’. The title, which means “servant” in Shona, sets the tone for a song soaked in themes of love and devotion. In this heartfelt track, Feli expresses her willingness to surrender to love, as reflected in the moving lyrics “ndiite muranda wako”, which translates to “make me your servant.”

A scene from the ‘Muranda’ music video shows Feli Nandi in the arms of her “lover”.

The music video places two contrasting settings: a traditional rural marriage ceremony and an intimate, modern gym scene. It opens with a vibrant rural setup, where in-laws arrive in luxurious cars for what appears to be a customary wedding. Clad in neat traditional attire, the bride and guests break into celebratory dance, reinforcing the cultural essence of the song.

Meanwhile, the scenes in the gym portray the deep intimacy between two lovers, symbolising the personal and private side of love that exists beyond cultural rituals. This duality, tradition and modernity, is a recurring theme in Feli’s artistry, showcasing her ability to combine heritage with contemporary storytelling.

Musically, ‘Muranda’ is a promising masterclass. The song’s slow tempo and rhythmic beats perfectly complement the atmosphere of love that filters throughout the video. One of the most striking moments comes at the 51-second mark when Feli effortlessly shifts her vocal tone. The transition is so seamless and distinct that listeners might mistake it for a feature from Mwenje Mathole, yet it is purely Feli’s vocal dexterity on display.

Her unwavering commitment to her signature sound, one that honours Zimbabwean culture, remains evident. This latest release aligns with the musical direction she established in previous projects, Feli Nandi (2021) and Izwi (2022), proving that she is not straying from her artistic path.

Having witnessed Feli Nandi’s electrifying performance at the Music In Africa Foundation’s ACCES event in Dar es Salaam in 2023, I can confidently say that her stage presence is as mesmerising as her recorded music. Her ability to connect with audiences is proof to her talent and dedication.

Beyond music, Feli is a true creative entrepreneur. Her love for fashion and beauty is evident in ‘Muranda’, where she stuns in exquisite outfits and flawless makeup. This passion extends beyond her artistry, she owns an apparel brand and runs a popular food joint, further proving that her creativity knows no bounds.

‘Muranda’ is yet another testament to Feli’s consistency and artistry. With its rich cultural influences, heartfelt lyrics, and a beautifully crafted video, the song solidifies her place as one of Zimbabwe’s most compelling contemporary musicians. If there’s one thing that remains certain, it’s that Feli is not just making music, she is telling stories, preserving heritage, and pushing Zimbabwean music onto a global stage.