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Writer's pictureSetrida Chikwense

Songs of The Spirit: A Journey Into Malawian Spiritualism With Nyago

There is a lot we can say about Nyago, which makes her a memorable figure in the music industry. From her very distinct, powerful, deep, and melodic voice to her whole stage presence. A combination that gives her audience a front row seat experience to a very rare and almost forgotten part of the Malawian culture.


Nyago's ability to seamlessly blend modern sounds with traditional instruments and themes creates a unique and captivating musical experience that resonates with her audience on a deep level. Her music takes her listeners on a spiritual journey that leaves them with a lasting impact. She not only entertains but also educates and enlightens her listeners about the rich spiritual traditions and spiritual heritage of Malawi.


As evidenced by her performances, Nyago  draws great inspiration from Malawian traditional beliefs, rituals, and experiences. For instance, she often spices up her music concerts with Vimbuza,a traditional healing dance ritual that is primarily performed to heal various diseases (both physical and spiritual).This spiritual connection adds a layer of depth and authenticity to her music, making it not only enjoyable to listen to but also very spiritually enriching.


 Outside music, Nyago is hard to miss, as her personal style is as distinctive as her music. Her style, a captivating blend of symbolism, creativity, and self-expression, sets her apart from everyone. On her head are seven locs adorned with colorful beads and a traditional crown, all of which she explained are not merely decorations.


A month ago, I came across an interview that she did with Felistus Nya Uyu Ngwira (available on Youtube and Facebook). Through this interview, we got to learn just a little bit more about her personal life. More of which she has also shared in her book "Enough." Her book details her journey into music as well as spiritualism. In this book, she also gets more personal as she shares her mental health struggles and her journey in rediscovering herself as a musician and embracing herself as a spiritualist all while highlighting the conservative religious household that she grew up in.


A lot of people in this modern day might have very bad views of spiritualism, this prompts Nyago to clarify a lot of misconceptions associated with this traditional religion and debunks some myths associated with its practices.  

I believe I am the light to the people that are in darkness, and I identify myself as a healer who only heals and never causes harm -Nyago.

While some may not agree with her beliefs and practices, we can all acknowledge that Nyago is doing something very unique with Malawian music. Her artistry of blending music with spiritual themes, not only preserves cultural heritage but also fosters a sense of pride and identity in us as a Malawian people. Her unapologetically embracing spirituality as a core aspect of her artistry not only entertains but also educates and inspires. By supporting and recognizing her talent, we are also contributing to the preservation of our heritage for future generations to appreciate.


 You can support her by following and liking her Facebook page and YouTube channel under the name Nyago Music.


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