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Quick Facts
Born
1971
1971
From
Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe
Journey
Eska Mtungwazi, known to the music world as ESKA, bridges continents and cultures with her distinct artistic voice. Born in Zimbabwe and raised in the vibrant musical tapestry of South-East London, she was immersed in a world of sounds from an early age. This multicultural foundation significantly influenced her creative output, which weaves together elements of soul, tigre, mbira, and reggae. Educated at the London School of Economics with a BSc in Mathematics, ESKA initially balanced teaching with her passion for music. Her multi-faceted talents led her to work as a backing singer for luminaries like Grace Jones and Bobby McFerrin, carving out a reputation that preceded her solo debut.
In 2013, ESKA launched her first solo project, the 'Gatekeeper EP', under her own label, Earthling Recordings. Produced with the innovative Matthew Herbert, it garnered high praise for its adventurous soundscapes and nestled comfortably in the playlists of tastemakers such as Gilles Peterson. The EP's title track was notably featured on Peterson's 'Brownswood Bubblers 10' compilation, spotlighting her as an emerging force in the UK music scene.
Her eponymous album 'ESKA', released in 2015, was a turning point, both critically acclaimed and nominated for the prestigious Mercury Music Prize. This body of work showcases her as a multifaceted musician, layering her compositions with an array of instruments — from the wurlitzer and clarinet to the glockenspiel — while her voice navigates effortlessly through her compositions’ complexities. Steeped in her experiences and characterized by risk-taking, ESKA continues to push musical boundaries, creating a resonant dialogue between her African heritage and London upbringing.
