JoyRukanza’s musical journey has seen her amass over 544,000 streams for standout tracks like “Survive The Night” and “New Day,” both featured on her 2023 debut album, MatterMoreForSis. The album not only secured placements on prominent Apple Music and Spotify playlists but also garnered attention from esteemed publications such as GQ, Wonderland, and News Day.
Zimbabwean by origin, her musical odyssey traces back to her roots in the church choir and her role as the captain of her school choir, which competed in regional competitions. Although she initially pursued a law degree at the University of Zimbabwe, her passion for music prevailed, leading her to Bryn Mawr University in Philadelphia on a merit-based scholarship. While excelling academically and beginning a successful tech career, JoyRukanza rekindled her musical flame on her birthday in 2020, acquiring music equipment and collaborating on a medley of South African songs.
This reawakening led to the release of her debut singles, “New Day” and “Roses,” setting the stage for the creation of MatterMoreForSis during a transformative stint in the UK with producer Murphy Cubi. The album, cleverly named to symbolize a musical metamorphosis, earned her accolades, including the Outstanding Achievement In Music – Female award at the 2023 ZimAchievers Awards and Outstanding Female Artist at the 2023 Roil Bulawayo Arts Awards.
MatterMoreForSis, an 11-track ode to women, showcases JoyRukanza’s artistic versatility, exploring diverse themes with varying moods and tempos. The synth-driven “Survive The Night” stands out as an escapist anthem, complemented by a visually captivating music video that underscores her storytelling prowess.
Beyond her musical achievements, JoyRukanza is committed to community engagement, exemplified by initiatives such as the 2021 JoyRide Initiative, where she funded free bus rides for Zimbabwean children to school. Her Foret Tropicale music festival in December 2021 highlighted emerging Zimbabwean artists, demonstrating her dedication to uplifting the local creative community. JoyRukanza has recently captivated audiences with her compelling performances, leaving an indelible mark on diverse global stages. Notable highlights encompass her enthralling showcase at the ZTN Network performance in Harare and a mesmerizing appearance at the BBC Maida Vale Studios in London (October 2022). Her multifaceted contributions to the cultural landscape reflect a commitment to fostering artistic expression and creating meaningful connections across borders
Looking ahead to 2024, JoyRukanza remains focused on developing more community-based initiatives, honing her music production skills, expanding her network within the music industry, and embracing new performance and artist development opportunities. Her journey is a testament to her passion for music, community, and continuous growth as a Zimbabwean artist.