The spoken word industry in Zimbabwe is undergoing a significant transformation, with young artists using poetry as a powerful medium to address pressing social issues. This evolution was evident at the recently concluded National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA), where spoken word poets competed fiercely for recognition, reflecting the genre’s growing influence. Amid this momentum, Zimbabwean spoken word artist Miles Oscar Matunya and gospel musician Charmaine Chinowaita (CHAR) officially released their much-anticipated spoken word project, Fumes, earlier today.
A fusion of poetry and hip-hop-inspired musical elements, Fumes takes a bold and unconventional approach to raising awareness about the dangers of smoking. Rather than relying on direct warnings, the three-stanza piece employs sarcasm, unexpected metaphors, and personification to subtly expose the harmful effects of the habit. The poem, performed by both Matunya and CHAR, draws listeners into a reflective experience that challenges them to think critically about smoking and its long-term consequences.
Matunya, a 22-year-old independent artist, digital creator, and film writer based in Sweden, has been making waves in the arts industry for nearly six years. His work, which includes audiobooks, short films, and talk shows, has earned him accolades, including the Best Content Creator of the Year Award at the 2024 Afrluencer Awards in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. CHAR, an emerging gospel artist, brings a distinct lyrical depth to Fumes, complementing Matunya’s poetic storytelling with her own dynamic delivery.
The poem’s background beat was produced by European producer Muted Beats, adding a rhythmic intensity that enhances the weight of the poem’s message. By blending classic hip-hop influences with spoken word poetry, Fumes stands out as a unique artistic statement that bridges the gap between traditional poetry and contemporary music. The project specifically targets young adults, a demographic often at risk of smoking-related habits, aiming to engage them through an artistic medium that resonates with modern audiences.
The release of Fumes comes at a time when spoken word poetry in Zimbabwe is experiencing an unprecedented rise. The recent NAMA awards showcased a fiercely competitive spoken word category, proving that the genre is no longer a niche art form but a force to be reckoned with in Zimbabwe’s creative industry. Poets are increasingly using their voices to address issues such as mental health, social justice, and identity, making poetry a vehicle for advocacy and change. The demand for spoken word performances, both in live settings and digital platforms, continues to grow, signaling a shift in how Zimbabwean audiences engage with the art form.
Now available on major streaming platforms, including Spotify, YouTube, and Audiomack, Fumes has already begun generating discussions among poetry and music enthusiasts. Its release in both video and audio formats ensures that audiences can experience the poem in multiple ways, reinforcing its impact. With Matunya and CHAR at the helm of this innovative project, Fumes sets a new benchmark for spoken word in Zimbabwe, demonstrating that poetry remains a vital tool for storytelling, awareness, and artistic expression.
As the spoken word movement gains further recognition in Zimbabwe, the success of projects like Fumes is a testament to the genre’s evolution. In an era where creative storytelling is more important than ever, Matunya and CHAR’s collaboration stands as a reminder of the power of poetry to ignite conversations and inspire change.
