Leon Mwana waJoze: Faith, A Second Chance, and the Rise of Christian Hip Hop
An Interview by Everything Zim
In a candid conversation, award-winning Zimbabwean Christian Hip Hop (CHH) artist Leon Mwana waJoze shares the powerful stories behind his music. From the origins of his unique name to a life-changing battle with COVID-19, he reveals how faith, family, and a message of hope fuel his creative journey.
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| Leon Mwana waJoze discusses his journey in faith and music. |
This deep dive explores his perspective on the CHH movement, his creative process, and his powerful message of encouragement for the youth of Zimbabwe.
What’s in a Name? The Story of "Mwana waJoze"
Leon explains that his stage name was born out of necessity during a "Bring It On" talent competition. With multiple contestants named Leon, the owner of the program, Masimba Leon, needed a way to distinguish them. "He started calling me 'Mwana waJoze' because of my song," Leon recalls. This was a reference to his track of the same name.
What started as a simple identifier became deeply meaningful. "The most interesting part, my dad's name is Joseph," he reveals. The song itself is a pure gospel track based on John chapter 6, but the name created a beautiful coincidence that connected his music, his identity, and his family. The name stuck, and "Leon Mwana waJoze" was born.
Surviving COVID-19: A Second Chance
Leon shares a profound personal testimony about his battle with COVID-19 in 2021, which became the inspiration for his song "Pakawoma." He describes a moment where he nearly died. "I prayed to God, 'If you give me a second chance, I promise to change my life and serve you to glorify your name,'" he says. This experience reshaped his perspective and solidified his mission.
His survival is a story he now shares through his music. For Leon, every day is a "second chance" given by God. He uses his art to remind others that no matter how difficult their circumstances, there is always hope. "When God is looking at you, He is expecting you to be content... That's a chance that you're given by God to rectify your life."
The Music and the Ministry
Leon’s award-winning EP, "Grateful," was a collaborative effort. The project was primarily produced by Reaobgets, with contributions from Yoshi. The entire EP is centered around the theme of giving thanks to God. Songs like "Ndozviripo," "Mwanangu Tanga," and "Pakawoma" are all rooted in scripture and personal testimony, reflecting his lifestyle of faith.
Leon looks up to fellow CHH artists who have paved the way, including Prophecy, G.I.L., Courtney Antipas, and the movement behind RevOutbreak. He sees them as mentors and inspirations. "Shoutout to Prophecy, he has always been a big brother to me... he's one of those guys who believes in me more than I believe in myself."
The Rise of Christian Hip Hop (CHH)
Leon defines CHH as a movement of young believers using their gifts—whether rapping, poetry, or R&B—to share the word of God. He pushes back against the misconception that CHH artists are "scared to compete" in the secular scene. "I can assure you, we have guys who can spit seriously... They can go toe-to-toe, bar-for-bar with secular guys," he asserts.
He believes now is the perfect time to focus on and invest in CHH. As musical tastes evolve, the younger generation is more receptive to hip hop, and CHH offers a powerful, positive alternative. "It's a great movement, it's growing. The best time to focus on CHH is now, because this is the right season."
A Message to the Youth
Addressing the challenges facing young people today, particularly the issue of drug abuse, Leon offers a message of hope and resilience. "My advice is, stay true to yourself. Don't be peer-pressured, and keep your faith in the Lord," he advises. His music is a testament to this, aiming to uplift spirits and provide a positive influence.
Key Insights
He is an award-winning Christian Hip Hop (CHH) artist from Zimbabwe, known for his scripturally-based lyrics and positive message.
The EP is a reflection of his gratitude to God, heavily influenced by his near-death experience with COVID-19 in 2021, which he considers his "second chance" at life.
He sees CHH as a powerful and growing movement capable of competing with secular music. He believes it provides a meaningful alternative for the youth by delivering life-giving messages through a relatable genre.
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