Thando | Youth Central

Zimbabwean-born, Melbourne-based songstress Thando has already taken 2018 by storm.

Thando

When did you start writing songs and making music? How did you get into it?

I've been writing since I was about 11 or 12. A friend from school was a budding producer, so over summer holidays I would ride my bike to his house and we'd spend all day writing songs and recording on GarageBand. You don't want to hear those songs... they are very age appropriate. And they exist on the internet somewhere now...

Where do you get the ideas for your songs and do you have a process for writing them?

When messed up stuff is happening in the world, my songs will reflect that. Same as when my partner does something really sweet... or the opposite.

What kind of things do you like to write about?

I was always about the love songs, but now I'm figuring out who I am and what I write about reflects that. Some of my new material tackles mental illness, prejudice, and celebrates my heritage.

Who has had the biggest influence on your music?

When I write I draw influence from Jill Scott, then throw in some Ladysmith Black Mambazo type harmonies and boom! But you know, Beyonce is #1.

What do you like to do in your downtime when you’re not making music?

In my downtime, I enjoy binging on Rick and Morty, RuPaul's Drag Race and going to gigs when I can

If you were to collaborate/perform with any artist, who would it be and why?

Robert Glasper, because he's the GOD of R&B and Jazz. I'd learn so much from him and evolve as an artist.

What are your plans for 2018?

Going on a national tour with my band til April, turning 25 the day we get back and then straight into the studio to finish new music for the rest of the year. Y'all ain't ready!

Where can people go to keep up to date with everything Thando?

My instagram! My story is filled with new music, gigs, behind the scenes and just a dirty good time... @thando.music for those who want to join in the fun :)