RISING Afro-soul sensation Xantel experienced a career-defining moment last Friday when she launched her debut four-track EP, Usizo, to a packed house at the Bulawayo Theatre.
The 23-year-old songstress, born Chantel Gugulethu Sibanda, took to the historic stage to perform tracks from her new project, which translates to “Help” from the Ndebele phrase “Usizo”.
She said the energy that Friday was electric, with a full house that left her overwhelmed by the reception.
“It was a full house at the EP launch on Friday, still can’t believe it,” Xantel shared with NewsDay Weekender Life & Style.
“People showed up and the support was just amazing.”
The launch was more than just a party; it was a carefully curated experience.
She said she was supported by a roster of featured artists from the project, including Butholezwe, Khwezi, Bhila, Asaph, Amany and Macala, who joined her in delivering the EP’s profound themes.
With Usizo, Xantel offered a deeply personal artistic statement.
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The EP is designed as a sonic journey through life’s trials, aiming to be a healing for listeners facing adversity.
“The four songs respectively reflect a journey of healing from all of life’s troubles and challenges and is aimed at instilling hope for a better tomorrow to the listener,” she explained.
“They carry a message of hope, encouragement, strength, resilience.”
This project follows the successful journey of her 2025 debut single, Icebo, which climbed up on the radio charts and established her as a promising new voice in Zimbabwe’s contemporary music scene.
That track, much like Usizo, carried themes of divine guidance and perseverance, setting the stage for her introspective and uplifting artistic identity.
“Because of this, I am motivated to even create more music for the people and do more live performances.”
