Simba Oneblow is preparing to release Dead Already, a six-track project that takes his political and social commentary from the microphone into music.
Known for speaking openly about Zimbabwe’s political and social challenges, Oneblow uses the upcoming EP to explore themes of hardship, survival, frustration and the demand for change.
The project includes tracks such as “Magevha,” “Simuka MaVondor,” “We Are On Our Own,” “Simuka Zimbabwe” and “Precabe Farm,” with appearances from Raspy and Black Eden.
The title Dead Already immediately sets the tone. It suggests a society in which people may still be physically alive but feel crushed by economic hardship, uncertainty and the daily struggle to survive.
One of the strongest themes running through the project is self-reliance. We Are On Our Own carries a particularly powerful message: ordinary Zimbabweans cannot simply wait for someone else to rescue them.
Meanwhile, Simuka Zimbabwe takes a more direct approach, sounding like a call for Zimbabweans to wake up, reflect on the country’s situation and become more engaged with what is happening around them.
Rather than presenting itself simply as entertainment, Dead Already appears designed as social commentary through music. Oneblow uses the EP to express his perspective on Zimbabwe’s problems and the experiences of ordinary people.
The collaborations with Raspy and Black Eden also bring additional voices into a project built around a broader conversation about the country.
Dead Already will inevitably attract different interpretations. Some listeners may connect strongly with its message, while others may disagree with Oneblow’s political and social perspective. That debate is arguably part of what this type of project is designed to provoke.
For Simba Oneblow, this is more than another music release. It is an attempt to turn frustration, commentary and questions about Zimbabwe’s future into a musical statement.
Rating aside, the real test will be whether the six tracks can move the conversation beyond social media and connect with Zimbabweans through the music itself.
