In a world brimming with musical talent, Amen Sibanda, better known by his stage name Scino, is carving out his own unique space in the Afropop genre. Hailing from Nkulumane 12, Scino is an artist whose work fuses his cultural roots with modern, contemporary influences, creating a sound that resonates not only with his local community but also with audiences across borders.
Though his professional music journey began just 11 months ago, Scino’s passion for music has been brewing since a very young age. In his words, “I felt like a lot of people are doing it, especially in the rap scene, but I wanted to bring a culture shift.” His decision to pursue music wasn’t about following a trend, but about expressing his identity in a way that would reach a broad and diverse audience. His inspirations come from the powerful sounds of South African duo Blaq Diamond, Zimbabwean legends Lovemore Majaivana, and the iconic Jeys Marabini.
What Sets Scino Apart
What makes Scino’s music stand out is not just his undeniable talent, but his ability to connect with listeners through personal experiences. As he puts it, “Most of my work stems from the sentiments I encounter. I use creative wordplay to describe even the simplest things, pairing them with a melody that brings it to life.” His music reflects his journey the highs and lows and celebrates his cultural pride. For Scino, music isn’t just a career; it’s a way of life. “We were born into music,” he says. “Music is for a lifetime; it’s about reinventing the wheel every time.”
In addition to his craft, Scino’s music carries an authentic edge that’s hard to ignore, particularly in the way he uses language. “I raise attention to the language I use, Ndebele, pure, unwatered-down Ndebele, free of slang,” he shares. “Normally, most artists go the alternative route where the wordplay is easier, but I stick to the real deal. Despite how challenging it can be, I keep it real and unfiltered. That’s my competitive advantage my authenticity.” His commitment to staying true to his roots, even when it’s not the easiest route, sets him apart in a space where much of contemporary Afropop relies on a more simplified approach to language and phrasing.
Debut EP and Future Vision
Scino’s debut EP, ‘Intokozo’, released in October 2024, has already caught attention for its refreshing, heartfelt sound. His single ‘Hamboluhle’, dropped in July 2024, resonated deeply with listeners due to its emotional depth. Looking ahead, Scino is not just aiming for success in music but a cultural movement. He envisions a future where even more members of his family follow in his musical footsteps, breaking new ground as he has.
He’s committed to pushing boundaries and working alongside other powerhouse talents like Regina Ashie and Ntix the Vocalist. One of the most exciting aspects of Scino’s career is his relentless pursuit of excellence, which includes learning from his team about key aspects of the industry such as copyrighting, marketing strategies, and reputation management. His career may be in its infancy, but his dedication is evident, and he’s determined to make his mark.
Scino’s participation in industry events like the Praca Awards where he serenaded the crowd during a morning roadshow performance—further showcases his energy and growing influence in the scene. His collaboration with other artists, like Ronald Stone, during this performance, shows that he is not only focused on his solo career but also on fostering relationships that strengthen the music community.
Cultural Roots and Authenticity
Born in Nkayi and raised in Inyathi, Scino is deeply rooted in Ndebele culture. “I’m Ndebele by roots, and my upbringing in these communities has had a significant influence on my music,” he reflects. His music speaks to the youth, to adults, and to anyone who has ever felt the powerful connection between rhythm, lyricism, and identity.
For Scino, the pursuit of his passion is not always smooth. Many people around him have shifted their priorities to focus on securing a paycheck or starting families, abandoning the pursuit of their art. Scino, however, remains unwavering in his commitment to music, understanding that success is built on persistence. “Persistence is the glove; success slips its hand. Those are the rules,” he says. His commitment to his craft keeps him focused, despite the challenges he faces.
The Road Ahead
Scino’s future is brimming with potential. With an eye on collaborations with other versatile artists, such as the multi-talented Calvin Mangena, his music aims to spark a movement—one that’s as much about cultural pride and authenticity as it is about global reach. His social media presence, especially on platforms like Instagram and TikTok (@cino08), offers fans a behind-the-scenes look at his creative world, while his performances electrify audiences and showcase the raw energy of his artistry.
The road may be long, but Scino’s passion, authenticity, and determination ensure that his journey is only just beginning. As he continues to break barriers, Scino’s music remains a call to all who believe in the power of self-expression, cultural pride, and the universal language of rhythm. His story is only getting started, and it’s only a matter of time before his name resonates globally.
For collaborations, bookings, and more, follow Scino on Instagram and TikTok @cino08.
That’s my brother appreciate you man