The Guitar Sangoma: Sylent Nqo is Carrying Zimbabwe’s Rhythm Across Africa

Sylent Nqo: The Guitar Sangoma Carrying Zimbabwe’s Rhythm Across the Continent

From the heart of Harare to stages across Africa, Sylent Nqo is redefining modern Afro-Fusion blending Zimbabwean rhythm with soulful melodies and collaborations that celebrate the spirit of the continent.

Every once in a while, an artist comes along whose music makes you stop and listen not just to the sound, but to the feeling behind it. That’s the power of Sylent Nqo’s artistry. The Zimbabwean-Mozambican guitarist, singer, and songwriter has become one of Africa’s most refreshing musical voices, known for his ability to connect cultures through sound.

Born to a Mozambican mother and raised in Harare, Sylent’s musical journey began at home. His parents gifted him his first guitar and a marimba set as a child a gesture that unknowingly set the foundation for a lifelong calling. What started as a hobby has since evolved into a purpose-driven career, taking him from intimate performances in Zimbabwe to major collaborations with some of Africa’s finest artists.

Now affectionately called “The Guitar Sangoma,” Sylent embodies the healing and spiritual energy that music can bring. His performances are not just entertainment they’re experiences that touch the soul.

“I draw on a wide range of influences,” Sylent explains. “From traditional African rhythms to contemporary pop and electronic sounds. But at the heart of it all, I just want to make something honest music that speaks to people from all walks of life.”

With each note, Sylent Nqo continues to bridge generations and genres, carrying Zimbabwe’s rhythm and African creativity into new global spaces. His sound is proof that music, when rooted in authenticity, transcends borders.

That philosophy of honesty and authenticity runs through everything Sylent Nqo creates. His 2022 debut album, Sylent Treatment, introduced the world to his distinctive blend of Afro-fusion, alternative, and electric soul music that effortlessly moves between celebration and introspection, yet always stays rooted in its African essence.

Even before the album’s release, Sylent had already carved a name for himself on the international stage. In 2016, he made history as the first African to win the “Senior Solo Instrumental Grand Champion of the World” at the World Championships of Performing Arts in Hollywood a monumental achievement that shone a global spotlight on both Zimbabwe and Mozambique.

By 2019, Sylent’s momentum only grew stronger when he was honored as Best Alternative Musician at the Zimbabwe Music Awards, cementing his reputation as one of the region’s most innovative and inspiring artists.

A Global Sound with African Roots

It’s in his live performances that Sylent Nqo’s magic truly comes alive. Backed by his band, The Noise Makers, he transforms every stage into an emotional journey — a blend of rhythm, storytelling, and soul. Over the years, Sylent has shared stages with legends like UB40, Dr. Oliver Mtukudzi, Hugh Masekela, and Chiwoniso Maraire, performing in countries as far apart as Norway, Italy, Egypt, South Africa, and Australia.

Reflecting on those experiences, Sylent recalls:

“Opening for UB40 and meeting Bra Hugh were moments I’ll never forget. Bra Hugh spoke to me about African freedom and the role of artists in telling our stories. That conversation still guides me today.”

Despite his global travels, Sylent’s sound remains deeply grounded in Africa. His collaborations read like a map of the continent’s finest talent Davido and Mr Eazi from Nigeria, Jah Prayzah from Zimbabwe, Shatta Wale from Ghana, and DJ Cleo from South Africa. Each partnership showcases his versatility as a guitarist, composer, and cultural bridge, blending styles and influences while staying true to his roots.

“I don’t like to be boxed in,” he says. “My music is African, but it borrows from everywhere from soul, rock, pop, even electronic music. I want it to feel inclusive and alive.”

Whether in Harare or Helsinki, Sylent’s performances remind audiences that African music is both timeless and evolving a rhythm that continues to inspire, unite, and heal.

A New Chapter for the Guitar Sangoma

Earlier this year, Sylent Nqo signed with Bridgenorth Music, a Harare-based record label known for nurturing some of Southern Africa’s most authentic talents. The partnership marks a bold new chapter in Sylent’s ever-evolving journey one that continues to push creative boundaries while staying true to his African essence.

As the “Guitar Sangoma” prepares to release his next body of work, fans can expect a collection that speaks to connection, healing, and the transformative power of art. His upcoming project promises to capture the same honesty and emotional depth that have made his music resonate across cultures.

With new music on the horizon and live shows planned across Africa, Sylent is stepping confidently into the continental spotlight. Those who’ve witnessed his performances describe them as spiritual, immersive, and life-affirming a blend of rhythm, emotion, and raw energy that leaves audiences deeply moved.

“My shows are a celebration of life,” Sylent shares. “They’re about connection the kind you feel deep down when rhythm and emotion meet. Everyone is welcome. It’s about joy, love, and remembering who we are.”

From Harare to Johannesburg, Lagos to Nairobi, Sylent Nqo is redefining what it means to be an African artist in the modern era authentic, fearless, and deeply connected to his roots. His story is not just about music, but about healing, unity, and the rhythm that binds us all.