Lady Squanda at the Top of the Dancehall Game

If ever there was someone who was born to be a DJ, it is Lady Squanda. She practically ate, slept and lived the desire to become a DJ. Today, she is reaping the rewards of her hard work and dedication in the male dominated industry of reggae, dancehall and reggae fusion. Lady Squanda began performing with sounds at the age of fifteen. She soon became known for her slack style, with songs such as “Cracker.”Her performances are mouth watering as she knows how to do her stage work very well, and she is FULL of energy. Most of her tracks are so humorous that they will keep you laughing although they have got a very strong message at the back. Squanda has performed in most schools, universities, private functions and clubs around Zimbabwe, but her biggest breakthrough yet was performing at the Zim Sum Fest 2011 at the Zimbabwe Grounds in Highfields, Harare. Lady Squanda has proved to be a darling of many ever since she was crowned Queen of Zimdancehall on Power FM by DJ Smylie recently on a show held on radio which she won resoundingly beating her female contestants. Lady Squanda is really on top of her game as interests continue to be shown by promoters from as far as the UK, South Africa and America making inquiries about the artist. Sky is the only limit for Lady Squanda.

The 20-year-old musician has proved herself worthy of dancehall queen title. When she performed as one of curtain raisers for Agent Sasco’s show in Harare, she stood above most of her male counterparts. In an interview with NewsDay, Lady Squanda, who stormed the industry in 2008, said she chose dancehall because there were a few female musicians pursuing the genre. “I chose to battle it out in dancehall because there are not many female artistes in the genre and because of the general perception that it’s for men. I have proved that women can do it if they chose to,” she said. Gazi was born and raised in Chitungwiza, a place known for breeding top reggae artistes like Emmanuel “Guspy Warrior” Manyeruke, Dadza D, Ricky Fire and Lady B, among others.Lady Squanda said she did not take long to kiss the limelight because she is good at what she does. “Music is about being good and I believe I’m good at what I do. That’s why it did not take long for people to receive my music,” she said. “Most people associate reggae with smoking marijuana, alcoholism and a whole lot of other drugs, so there are often times I meet fans who ask me silly questions, which is quite irritating. “People should also know that the stage personality is far different from the real Lady Squanda. Music is art and we create various acts that do not necessarily reveal our actual characters.” Lady Squanda, who is married to DJ Eazy Stayera, said she owes much of her success to her husband because of the amazing support she receives. “It’s not easy balancing work and being a wife, but I thank my husband for being so understanding and supportive.” She will release her 10-track album, which has not been titled yet, during her 21st birthday bash on November 23 and 24 in Chitungwiza. She turns 21 on Friday. “I’m still debating on whether I am going to call my album Queen on Top or Lady Squanda Pachigaro,” she said. The album contains songs such as Mari, Malaika, Maghetto Youths, Officer Siya Hwindi and Vimba Neni which features her husband, among others. She said her favourite song is Officer Siya Hwindi because it explores the conflict between the police and rank marshals. “All the songs are good, but I like this one because it tells a story of what is currently happening, rank marshals are fighting running battles with the police. Lady Squanda has shared the stage with celebrated international acts, including David Constantine Brooks aka Mavado and Sasco. She will also be opening for Clifton George Bailey, better known as Capleton or King Shango, who will stage a show at City Sports Centre on December 7. “I am looking forward to the show. It is always good to share the stage with big names. King Shango is a well-respected musician and I am honoured to be part of his tour. “I am preparing for the show and I will be promoting my album at the King Shango show. I know I will learn one or two things from King Shango.” Lady Squanda says she has a number of shows lined up before the Capleton tour.