Mary Anibal: The Voice of Afro-Fusion and Zimbabwe...

Mary Anibal: The Voice of Afro-Fusion and Zimbabwean Heritage

Witness Runodada

Zim Now Writer

Mary Anibal is an award-winning Afro-fusion artist whose music vibrantly celebrates African and Zimbabwean culture. Known for her distinctive blend of folk traditions and contemporary sounds, Mary’s artistry has captured hearts worldwide.

Her musical journey began in 2016 as a mbira session musician. A defining moment came in 2017 when she performed at the prestigious Harare International Festival of the Arts alongside Soa Roy from Madagascar and Forest Jam. This marked the beginning of her rise as a dynamic and multifaceted performer.

A proud alumna of Music Crossroads Academy, Mary has evolved into a seasoned vocalist, mbira player, and percussionist. Since 2021, she has performed as part of Jah Prayzah’s 3G Band, solidifying her reputation as a versatile and influential musician.

Mary Anibal’s dedication to her craft has seen her grace prominent stages across the globe. In 2022, she performed at the Jacaranda Music Festival in Harare, in 2023 she headlined the Habari Africa Festival in Toronto, Canada and also headlined the Sauti Za Busara Festival in Zanzibar, Tanzania this year.

In September 2024, Mary reached a new milestone with the release of her debut album, Maria Wenyu. This work showcases her ability to seamlessly blend traditional Zimbabwean music with modern Afro-fusion styles, earning critical acclaim and resonating with audiences worldwide.

Mary’s path to success was not without obstacles. Early in her career, she faced limited opportunities and low-paying or unpaid gigs. Determined to create change, she launched Kwandinobva Live Sessions.

These intimate shows celebrate marginalised voices and provide a platform for upcoming artists to showcase their talent, turning challenges into opportunities for community growth.

Mary Anibal is more than an artist; she is a cultural ambassador and a beacon of hope for marginalised voices in the music industry. Her journey from session musician to international headliner exemplifies resilience, passion, and innovation.

As she continues to inspire through her music and advocacy, Mary Anibal cements her place as a trailblazer in the Afro-fusion genre and a proud custodian of Zimbabwean culture.