Chmba is a Malawian singer-songwriter, DJ, and Producer shaping the sound of African Electronic music. Blending House, Tech, and pan-African influences, her work is bold, rooted, and forward-thinking. With recognition from Apple Music, BBC Radio 6, and Forbes Africa, and performances on global stages, Chmba is redefining what it means to take African sound to the world.

Hi Chmba, it’s great speaking with you. How are you feeling today?

I’m feeling really good! I’m looking forward to the weekend so I can disappear into my studio and finish some of the songs I plan to release this year. But beyond that, in a world that feels like it’s constantly in crisis, I feel a real sense of duty to create joy. To make something that can hold the people around me, and also, those at a distance. Music feels like a way we can gather, even when we’re scattered.

How would you describe your musical evolution over the last couple of years?

It’s been a journey from grief to healing. I started creating from a place of loss, and that slowly opened into something more spiritual. I experimented a lot, sonically and emotionally, but eventually I found myself returning to my roots. Early on, I spent a lot of time trying to sound like other artists or fit into certain scenes, and I always felt a bit homeless doing that. It wasn’t until I started listening inward and trusting my heart that the music truly felt like home.

What is the core message or “vibe” that you try to maintain throughout all your work?

I’m always chasing something groovy but soulful, music that feels timeless. The kind you can drive across the country alone to, but also play with friends at a local bar. I want my music to make people feel good, but also encourage them to live fully, whether that’s turning inward, reconnecting with family, or opening yourself up to love.

When you’re in a creative rut, what is your go-to method for finding inspiration again?

I go outside and walk while listening to old music. Sade, Brenda Fassie, A Tribe Called Quest. Something always opens up there. Being in nature and listening to music from a less pressured time reminds me of creative freedom and brings me back to creating from feelings, not trends or virality.

What is the most challenging technical skill you’ve had to master as a producer?

It’s hard to point to one thing because every day I’m learning something new. That’s what excites me most about production. As a sampler and Electronic Producer, I’ve been spending more time playing with real instruments and cleaning them up in the studio. In a world of auto-generation and AI, human and natural sounds feel even more precious, and getting that right creates something deeply felt by the listener.

What has been the most memorable venue you’ve played in, and why did it stand out?

Playing at the Avicii Arena last year (June 2025) was incredibly emotional for me. Growing up, I admired Avicii deeply, especially seeing someone without formal music theory move people so powerfully. Being on that stage felt like a full-circle moment and a real honor.

What do you think is the most misunderstood part of your profession?

How long it takes and how isolating it can be. In a world driven by social media, there’s pressure to always be visible, but most of my work is quiet, locked away in a studio for hours, tweaking the smallest details. That invisible labor is where the music really comes alive.

How do you define success at this stage of your career?

Success to me is making music that holds people. After releasing ‘Dream’, so many listeners told me they play it every morning just to feel like they can get through the day. If my music can continue to support people in that way, I already feel successful.

What do you do to disconnect and find silence in such a loud industry?

I read, I bake, I cook, and I write. I’ve always loved films, and lately I’ve been drawn to storytelling through visuals. I want my music videos to feel more like short films, so I’ve been enjoying writing small scripts and imagining how sound and image can live together.

Are there any specific goals or milestones you are currently working toward?

I have a few releases coming out early this year, followed by an EP later on. I want to grow my listenership, reach new audiences, and let the music travel to more corners of the world. Most importantly, I’m working toward consistency and intention in my creation.

Lastly, what advice would you give to someone just starting their journey in music?

Make it a habit. Create regularly. Quality matters, but consistency builds the foundation. Make it a lifestyle and the sound will evolve naturally. And always create from your heart, not your brain.

Grounded in heritage and fearless in vision, Chmba is carving her own lane in global Electronic music. With every set and every release, she carries African sound forward, loud, intentional, and unmistakably hers.

Listen to ‘Dream’ here:

Follow Chmba:

Spotify – Instagram – Soundcloud