The Rise of Zimbabwean Music Star ...Zimbabwean music star Berita Khumalo, who has just released a new album, says her music is distinct, unique and originates from her heart and soul. Berita, who released a 9-track album, says her music is truthful with a sound of its own and rich in soulful melodies. On her new album, Songs of Empowerment, she said, “I worked on guitar rhythms with modern contemporary grooves, inspired by traditional Xhosa, Ndebele and Shona Music, as well as 50’s Marabi music, as my aim is to unite and empower people by mixing the new with the old. The album is inspired by contemporary music and the soulful world music of Nina Simone, Miriam Makeba, Oliver Mtukudzi, Dorothy Masuka and Hugh Masekela. “I've been fortunate to spend quality time in and out of studio with Oliver Mtukudzi and Hugh Masekela. We sang, we ate, we laughed together and I fully embraced being a child seated with elders. In the process, I learned to be free as a musician and that inspired me to write Songs of Empowerment. No media source currently available ABOUT BERITA The name Berita is a Latin word for ' truthful ' and is also a name she shares with her mother. Berita was born in Zimbabwe and moved to live in the Eastern Cape in South Africa, where she has been adopted as a local superstar. At the age of 23, she proudly considers herself a born free (born after political independence in Southern Africa). As a young African she remains inquisitive, watching and listening whilst traveling extensively. She feels that as a musician it is her duty to empower people through her music, by sending uplifting messages that are relevant to "our current struggles in Southern Africa". ARTISTIC HIGHLIGHTS, SO FAR  Debut album “Conquering Spirit" won the coveted "Best African Pop Album" award at the 2013 Metro FM Awards.  The “Thandolwethu” single has to date generated over 300,000 YouTube views  The hit single “Thandolwethu” has received heavy rotation on key regional and national radio including Umhlobo Wenene, Ukhozi FM, Kaya FM, Radio 2,000, Jozi FM, Metro FM, YFM, 702 & Lesedi FM.  “Conquering Spirit” was certified a Gold Album for sales in excess of 20,000 units.  “Conquering Spirit” peaked at No. 1 on the iTunes ZA album charts and has remained in the iTunes ZA top albums chart for the past 14 months.