By Kennedy Nyavaya
Gospel songstress Jennifer Maneni-Mayers (picture below) has begun a rebranding process that will see her adopt a new stage name — Jennie Mayers — as well as explore new sounds distinct from the usual local gospel rhythms, in her musical journey.
The mother of one is currently working on her fourth album, with the assistance of her husband Ricky and producer Bless Mchenga, set for release towards the end of the year.
In an interview with Standard Style last week, Mayers said her career will be taking the new twist in order to attract a wider fan base at home and abroad.
“I have always wanted to use Jennie rather than my full name because people always call me using this shortened version and I will also use my husband’s surname since I am married now,” she said.
“I just believe rebranding can help one to get new audiences and I have seen it of late after releasing my new single titled Blessed.”
In the last two years, the You Raise Me Up singer went on a hiatus after getting married and giving birth, but has bounced back amidst family commitments.
“It’s all about time management. I create space for my music as well as time for my family and I thank God that I have got a supporting family and husband,” said Mayers.
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She pledged to follow up the upcoming project with visuals, but concedes that the Covid-19 pandemic has delayed and disturbed the marketing of her work.
“Covid-19 has affected us to a great extent because we are no longer having concerts and we could not finish our album on time,” said Mayers.
“We usually do physical marketing at churches whether it’s a single or an entire album, but due to the pandemic we are stuck at home and while people can buy music online in other countries, as far as Zimbabwe is concerned they are a few who can and the majority prefer CDs.”
