One of Zimbabwe’s Most Trending Artists Right Now
Breaking into the music industry is never easy, and South Africa-based, Insiza-born artist BLACK DIVA knows this struggle all too well. A hitmaker and game changer, she is redefining Matabeleland music and giving it a fresh, powerful sound. 🎶🇿🇼
Born Leslie Muleya on 13 September 1995 at Shangani Mine, Black Diva grew up in eNsango Village 2, Insiza. She attended Shangani Mine Primary and Secondary School, walking nearly 20 kilometres daily to and from school. She later completed her A-Level studies at Gloag High School.
Her childhood was marked by hardship. Following her parents’ divorce, she was forced to take on adult responsibilities at a young age, caring for her six-month-old twin sisters. While other children played, she worked on farms to help provide food and support for her siblings. Financial difficulties meant well-wishers often assisted with school fees and food, as her grandparents struggled to make ends meet.
Despite these challenges, Black Diva’s passion for music emerged early. She stood out as a leader in school choirs during both her primary and secondary education. However, her difficult upbringing affected her confidence. Though she loved music deeply, she struggled with low self-esteem and fear of rejection.
Her professional music journey began in 2022 after a friend encouraged her to take her talent seriously. She started writing and recording songs but did not release her first track, “Ama2000,” due to limited budget and production quality. Her breakthrough came with the Dancehall song “Why,” sung in Shona to reach a wider audience.
Since then, Black Diva has released music across Afro, Hip-Hop, Dancehall, and Amapiano genres. Her notable songs include “Why,” “Badgyal,” “Ngilombuzo” (2023), “Kamuendero Kawakazoita,” “Ndozvandinomudira,” “Moses,” and the hit “Mntanami” (2024).
Now a mother of one, Black Diva relocated to South Africa in 2016 in search of better opportunities. Music remains her main focus as she works tirelessly to build her brand and support her grandmother, who played a significant role in raising her.
Her message to fans is simple yet powerful:
“Please support your artistes, especially female artistes. I will make you proud, and I want to raise the Matabeleland flag high.”
With a rapidly growing fan base and millions of streams across platforms, Black Diva has achieved milestones that continue to surprise many in the industry. She is a true testament to hard work, resilience, and an unyielding hunger for greatness.
#music 🎶🇿🇼
