ZAMBIAN artist Tanonga Nswana, popularly known as Tbwoy Tbizzy, has carved out a unique path by successfully balancing a thriving music career with his duties as a military officer in the United States of America.
The musician, whose breakthrough song Mwati Uziba became a nationwide hit after its release in 2008, says the track remains the foundation of everything he has achieved in his career.
“I recorded the song in 2007, around March, and it brought me a lot of things in my life. It brought me fame and everything that I have right now,” he said.
In an interview, the artist described his music journey as rewarding, despite the challenges that have come along the way.
Now based in the United States, Tbwoy Tbizzy says living abroad has broadened his perspective and influenced his creativity.
He explained that exposure to different cultures and communities has helped him view life beyond his comfort zone.
Before relocating to America, the singer spent time in Pemba, Southern Province, where he drew inspiration for some of his biggest songs, including Miss You.
“Living in different places exposes you to different ways of life. It helps you understand people and gives you new perspectives, which ultimately influence your music,” he said. Tbwoy Tbizzy shared that in the early days, making music was his motivation has evolved, Unlike in his early years when music was a pathway out of poverty and a means of earning a living, “Back then, I was doing music to make money, travel, and improve my life.
Today, I do it because I love it. Music is my seed. You don’t eat the seed, you plant it,” he said.
The artist recently released a new single titled Don’t Go, featuring Tsean and produced by Roy and Tsean.
He also revealed that he is preparing to release another song accompanied by a music video, produced by Paul Smart.
Away from the stage, Tbwoy Tbizzy balances his music career with military service, a path he chose in pursuit of personal growth and new experiences.
“I joined the military because I wanted to actualise my dreams and try different things. Eventually, I got hooked to it,” he said.
The singer admitted that combining military life with music has not been easy, as the demands of service often limit his movements and professional opportunities.
“As military personnel, there are places you cannot go and things you cannot do. Sometimes I have had to miss shows and other music opportunities because of my duties,” he said.
Despite the restrictions, Tbwoy Tbizzy credits military service with teaching him discipline, responsibility, and financial management.
“As a musician, you can make money every weekend and spend it freely. In the military, you learn discipline with money and discipline in life. It has changed the way I behave, the way I think, and even the way I view the world,” he said.
– Zambia Daily Mail
