IN CONVERSATION WITH MELYSSA

Loading player...
“I am who I think I am, and I’m reaching for the stars.”
With those words, Zimbabwean artist Melyssa signals a bold new chapter in
her music career as she drops her debut single under Bridgenorth Music. The
track, titled SIMBI, is a genre-bending Afrobeats anthem packed with energy,
empowerment, and emotional grit.
“This release marks the beginning of an exciting journey with my new family,
Bridgenorth,” Melyssa shares. “It’s our first release together, so it’s quite special. The message is clear: I’m here to stay. Nothing can stop me.”
Driven by the lyric “tougher than simbi”—simbi meaning “metal” in Shona—the track is more than a catchy hook. It’s a mantra. “It’s a song meant to uplift someone going through a tough time. A pat on the back to say, ‘Keep going, you got this,’” she says.
The song showcases Melyssa’s signature vocal charisma over a smooth but
commanding beat produced by Chiweddar, mastered by Keith Farquharson,
and visually brought to life by Taku from Bridgenorth. “I thrive on good vibes
in the studio,” she explains, “and working with Chiweddar, who I’ve built a solid trust with over time, made the whole experience flow.”
Though the track sounds like a victory lap, it’s born out of reflection. “I’ve been through so much in my journey as an artist. This song was a way of channeling my inner champion,” she says. “One thing that’s kept me going is the amazing support I’ve received from people who genuinely vibe with my music. This is my way of saying I won’t let them down.”
When asked about critics and pressure, she shrugs it off gracefully. “I won’t say I have haters per se… but I know I’m not everyone’s cup of tea. Still, I won’t succumb to pressure from whoever or whatever isn’t for me.”
Melyssa is more than ready—she’s sure-footed, self-assured, and supported by a team determined to amplify her shine. “There’s been a lot of learning with Bridgenorth, but I’m grateful. They’re working so hard behind the scenes to make me look good, sound good, and just shine.” And this is just the beginning. “There’s a body of work coming soon,” Melyssa teases. “Expect a lot more music.”
20 Jun 2025 English South Africa Entertainment News · Music Interviews

Other recent episodes

In Conversation With Tshiamo Masike Economist at Momentum investment

South Africa’s latest inflation data shows a slight increase to 3.1% year-on-year in March, suggesting that price pressures are still relatively contained—for now. On paper, this looks like stability. But beneath the surface, there are growing warning signs that this calm may not last. The increase has been driven largely…
28 Apr 11 min

In Conversation With AZAPO President, Nelvis Qekema

South Africa marks 32 years since the first democratic elections of 1994, a moment widely celebrated as the birth of freedom and equality after decades of apartheid. For many, Freedom Day remains a symbol of dignity, political rights, and the power of collective struggle. However, alternative perspectives continue to challenge…
28 Apr 13 min