Zimbabwe’s Sylent Nqo is quietly carving out a space of his own one built on rhythm, emotion, and spiritual connection.
Known as “The Guitar Sangoma”, a nod to the healing, almost spiritual nature of his performances, Sylent is redefining Afro-fusion, taking Zimbabwe’s rhythm to stages across the continent.
Born in Harare to a Mozambican mother, Sylent’s musical journey began in childhood when his parents gifted him a guitar and marimba. What started as play soon became purpose.
“At the heart of it all, I just want to make something honest,” he says. “Music that speaks to people from all walks of life.”
That honesty pulses through his 2022 debut album, Sylent Treatment, a blend of Afro-fusion, alternative soul, and electric energy that moves between introspection and celebration.
But long before that release, he was already making history.
In 2016, he became the first African ever to win Senior Solo Instrumental Grand Champion of the World at the World Championships of Performing Arts in Hollywood, a feat that marked a breakthrough moment for Zimbabwean musicians on the global stage.
Three years later, he was named Best Alternative Musician at the Zimbabwe Music Awards.
Live performance, however, remains his truest form of expression. With his band The Noise Makers, Sylent has graced international stages in Italy, Norway, Egypt, South Africa and Australia, performing alongside icons like UB40, the late Dr. Oliver Mtukudzi, Hugh Masekela, and Chiwoniso Maraire.
“Opening for UB40 and meeting Bra Hugh were moments I’ll never forget,” he says. “Bra Hugh spoke to me about African freedom and the role of artists in telling our stories. That conversation still guides me today.”
Rooted in Africa but open to the world, Sylent’s music bridges borders. His collaborations include some of the continent’s biggest names; Davido, Mr Eazi, Jah Prayzah, Shatta Wale, and DJ Cleo reflecting his ability to merge cultures and genres seamlessly. “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.”
Now signed to Harare-based label Bridgenorth Music, Sylent is gearing up for his next chapter with new releases, Call Me Back, Denga featuring Suhn and Mhaw Keys, and Huya.