Zimbabwean-Mozambican artist Sylent Nqo is ready to take his music to new heights, having secured a two-year recording contract with Harare-based Bridgenorth Music. Known for his unique fusion of musical styles and his spiritual approach to performance, Sylent Nqo is in the studio working on his next project, set for release ahead of his highly anticipated performances in Australia and across Africa.
The Mulit-award winning artist has become a permanent fixture in Zimbabwe’s music scene and this milestone only will solidify his place as one of the most innovative talents coming out of the country. “I’m elated to be signed with Bridgenorth Music,” he says. “This is the perfect platform to push my creative boundaries and expand my reach.” The partnership is expected to elevate his work, both in the studio and on stage, as he continues to make his mark in the global music scene.
Bridgenorth Music, which launched in March this year alongside its partner studio Bridgenorth Studios, has been known for its commitment to nurturing unique talent. The label’s vision is to collaborate with artists who push the envelope in their genres. “We’re beyond excited to work with Sylent on creating groundbreaking music,” a spokesperson for the label said. “We’re ready to take his distinctive sound to audiences across Africa and the globe.”
Sylent Nqo, affectionately known as “The Guitar Sangoma,” is celebrated for his ability to seamlessly blend ethnic musical traditions with contemporary influences. The title “Guitar Sangoma,” a nod to the spiritual African healer, reflects the healing essence of his music and the profound spiritual connection he fosters through his performances. His music has become a bridge between cultures, uniting diverse audiences through the power of rhythm and melody.
As the leader of his band, “The Noise Makers,” Sylent Nqo has performed on some of the most prestigious stages in the world, sharing the bill with music legends like UB40 ft. Ali Campbell, the late Dr. Oliver Mtukudzi, Chiwoniso Maraire, and Hugh Masekela. Reflecting on his experiences opening for UB40, he shares, “It was surreal. Ali’s vocals were mesmerizing, and his energy offstage was infectious. Bra Hugh’s wisdom left a lasting impact. He spoke about the struggle for African freedom, and he enjoyed my playing, which gave me a huge boost of confidence.”
His musical journey has also included intimate collaborations with major African and international artists, including Afrobeat superstars Davido and Mr Eazi, Zimbabwe’s Jah Prayzah, and Ghanaian reggae-dancehall icon Shatta Wale. Sylent Nqo’s versatility as a composer and guitarist shines through in these projects, further cementing his reputation as a global force in the music industry.
Sylent Nqo’s accolades speak for themselves: in 2016, he became the “Senior Solo Instrumental Grand Champion of the World” at the World Championships of Performing Arts in Hollywood—a historic achievement for Zimbabwe and Mozambique. He also took home the award for “Best Alternative Musician” at the Zimbabwe Music Awards (ZIMA) in 2019.
His debut album Sylent Treatment was released in 2022, marking a significant milestone in his career. Through his music and collaborations, Sylent Nqo continues to challenge musical conventions, embracing the power of collective artistry to build global connections.
Sylent Nqo is focused on expanding his global footprint through both his upcoming album and his performances at major music festivals in Australia and Africa. “Music is a universal language,” he says, “and it’s through these global connections that we can break down boundaries and elevate African music on the world stage.”
Sylent Nqo’s partnership with Bridgenorth Music is just the latest chapter in a career that continues to evolve, breaking new ground while staying true to his roots. As the “Guitar Sangoma” prepares to share his new work with the world, fans can expect a project that’s not just about music, but about connection, healing, and the transformative power of art.
