Patriach W. J. Manyabi, known by his stage name Bhila, is a multifaceted artist whose journey through the world of music is nothing short of inspiring. Emerging onto the music scene in 2023, Bhila’s debut album, ‘Iphephandaba’, introduced the world to his unique blend of Afropop and soul. This album, a rich collection of tracks that weave stories of love, culture, and human experience, has positioned Bhila as one of the most promising voices in the genre. The songs are Imbila, Inkonjwa, Umama lo Baba, Cima, Lindela, Lala ngoxolo, Yekelani, Uma Ulala, Ngiyatshela and Gp, they reflect his profound connection to storytelling, a central theme that defines his musical identity.
Born in Gwanda and raised in Bulawayo, Bhila’s rural roots lie in Nkayi, with deep ties to the communities of Matabeleland South, Matabeleland North, and Bulawayo, Bhila has always been surrounded by culture, music, and the spirit of togetherness. His love for music began at an early age. By the age of nine, Bhila was already part of his school choir at Mthombowesizwe Primary School in Bulawayo. This early immersion in music led him to recognize his innate talent and passion, propelling him into the professional music industry in 2023.
Bhila’s musical inspirations are as diverse as his roots. Drawing from the soulful influences of artists like Mandisi Dyantis, Sjava, and the global sensation Drake, Bhila’s sound is a rich fusion of Afropop, jazz, and contemporary soul, seamlessly blending local rhythms with international appeal. His music resonates with authenticity, reflecting the day-to-day realities and emotions that define the human experience.
As much as Bhila is an artist, he is also a visionary and a curator. His passion extends beyond music into event organization, where he has carved out platforms to elevate local talent from Matabeleland. Notably, Bhila co-created the Ubuntu Culture Night, an event that seamlessly blends music, art, and community spirit, providing local artists with a platform to showcase their talents to a wider audience. This visionary event was planned and implemented alongside Timothy Mlalazi and Linda Hitch, whose contributions were instrumental in bringing the event to life. The inaugural Ubuntu Culture Night, held on 20 December 2024 at the Bulawayo Theatre, was a resounding success, uniting families, culture enthusiasts, and artists for a night of electrifying performances. The event featured outstanding contributions from the likes of Vuyo Brown, Bhila, Thandy Dlana, Matojeni, Khaya Arts, Ihawu Lesizwe, Thaluso Da Poet, and Dzivalemvula, creating a vibrant celebration of local talent and culture.
The event was not just a celebration of artistic expression, but also a testament to Bhila’s commitment to empowering local creatives. Ubuntu Culture Night went beyond entertainment as it created lasting memories and fostered international connections. Notably, the event attracted global attention with the presence of “Rainbowcolours”, a Switzerland-based African gallery, opening doors for local artists to potentially showcase their work on the international stage. Bhila sees this partnership as an essential step in exporting Matabeleland’s rich musical culture to the world.
Looking ahead, Bhila’s ambitions soar to extraordinary heights. His impressive journey has already earned him prestigious recognition, including nominations at the esteemed Roil Bulawayo Arts Awards, where he was celebrated as an outstanding newcomer for his groundbreaking debut album. This remarkable achievement is just the beginning of what promises to be a stellar career. Bhila continues to build on his success with unparalleled passion and determination, solidifying his place as one of the most promising and innovative artists to emerge in recent years. His unwavering drive and undeniable talent ensure that he is destined for even greater accomplishments and the future holds nothing but boundless opportunities for this extraordinary artist.
Bhila’s artistry is further exemplified through his exceptional collaborations with some of the most talented young artists in the industry, including Lewanika, Sixteen, Timber, Mawiza, Leigh, and many others. These powerful partnerships highlight his ability to seamlessly blend his unique sound with diverse voices, creating music that resonates deeply with listeners. Bhila’s impressive body of work also includes standout projects such as the soulful Mathapelo single, the captivating Umfazi Engzomthatha track, where he joined forces with Mawiza, and the heartwarming Uthando, a collaboration with Timber. These releases showcase his versatility and unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of creativity while elevating the voices of his peers. Bhila’s collaborations are a testament to his growth as an artist and his dedication to shaping the future of the music scene.
Despite the accolades and recognition, Bhila acknowledges the challenges he faces, particularly in terms of capital to fund his projects. However, his determination to overcome these obstacles is unwavering, as he continues to search for innovative ways to fund his artistry and expand his creative horizons.
In March 2025, Bhila will bring his visionary artistry to life with the highly anticipated “Taste The Music” event in Gwanda, a groundbreaking celebration of local talent that promises to be nothing short of monumental. This extraordinary event will serve as a vibrant fusion of music, culture, and collaboration, uniting artists, the public, and the business community in a shared celebration of creativity. Bhila’s unwavering belief in the power of homegrown talent is at the heart of this initiative, and his dedication to providing a platform for local artists to shine is truly inspiring. With his unshakeable confidence in the people of Gwanda and their readiness to support and embrace their own, Bhila is poised to elevate the local music scene to unprecedented heights. This event is set to be a game-changer, and it’s a testament to Bhila’s leadership in promoting the incredible wealth of talent within Matabeleland.
Bhila’s performance at the Munch and Sip Festival marks a significant milestone in his career, showcasing his remarkable talent on a prestigious platform. This renowned event, which captivates the entire city of Bulawayo, draws a diverse crowd of food enthusiasts and culture lovers eager to indulge in a variety of exquisite dishes while enjoying an unforgettable experience. By gracing this celebrated festival with his performance, Bhila has not only demonstrated his musical prowess but also cemented his place as a key figure in the city’s cultural landscape. His participation in this iconic event is a testament to his growing influence and the undeniable appeal of his artistry.
Bhila’s journey is one of passion, resilience, and commitment to the development of both his craft and his community. He is a trailblazer in the music industry, a curator of culture, and a champion for local artists. His story is a testament to the power of music to connect people, uplift communities, and inspire change. As Bhila’s brand continues to grow, there is no doubt that his contributions will resonate far beyond the borders of Matabeleland, leaving an indelible mark on the music world.
Join Bhila on his journey, experience his music, and become a part of the vibrant, ever-evolving story he is telling through his art. To explore Bhila’s musical works, please visit his official YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@Bhila.
Am proud of you
Ngicela ukusebenza lawe
Proud of you. Would love to work with you
Thank you Creatives Magazine for amplifying my work. l’m humbled.