Leon Mwana waJoze: Faith, A Second Chance, and the Uncompromising Rise of Christian Hip Hop
By Oudney Patsika | Sona Headlines
In a candid conversation, award-winning Zimbabwean Christian Hip Hop (CHH) artist Lee Mutembedza, professionally known as Leon Mwana waJoze, shares the powerful stories behind his music. From the origins of his unique name to a life-changing battle with COVID-19, he reveals how faith, family, and a message of hope fuel his creative journey.
What’s in a Name? The Story of "Mwana waJoze"
Leon explains that his stage name was born out of necessity during a talent competition. With multiple contestants named Leon, the program owner needed a way to distinguish them and started calling him "Mwana waJoze" in reference to his song of the same name. What began as a practical solution became deeply meaningful. "The most interesting part, my dad's name is Joseph," he reveals. The name created a beautiful coincidence that connected his music, his identity, and his family, and it has defined him ever since.
A Second Chance: Surviving COVID-19
Leon shares a profound testimony about his battle with COVID-19 in 2021, which became the inspiration for his powerful song "Pakawoma." He describes a moment where he nearly died.
"I prayed to God, 'If you give me a second chance, I promise to change my life and serve you to glorify your name.'"
This experience reshaped his perspective, solidified his mission, and infused his music with a newfound sense of urgency and gratitude.
His survival is a story he now shares through his art. For Leon, every day is a "second chance" from God, and he uses his music to remind others that there is always hope. "When God is looking at you, He is expecting you to be content... That's a chance that you're given by God to rectify your life."
The Music and the Ministry
Leon’s award-winning EP, "Grateful," is a testament to his journey. Produced primarily by Reaobgets with contributions from Yoshi, the entire project is an expression of thankfulness. Songs like "Ndozviripo," "Mwanangu Tanga," and the deeply personal "Pakawoma" are all rooted in scripture and personal testimony, reflecting his lifestyle of faith.
Leon looks up to fellow CHH artists who paved the way, including Prophecy, G.I.L., and Courtney Antipas. He views them as mentors and inspirations. "Shoutout to Prophecy," he says, "he has always been a big brother to me... he's one of those guys who believes in me more than I believe in myself."
The Rise of Christian Hip Hop (CHH)
Leon defines CHH as a movement of young believers using their gifts to share the word of God. He pushes back against the misconception that CHH artists are "scared to compete" in the secular scene. "I can assure you, we have guys who can spit seriously... They can go toe-to-toe, bar-for-bar with secular guys," he asserts.
He believes now is the perfect time to invest in CHH. As musical tastes evolve, the younger generation is highly receptive to hip hop, and CHH offers a powerful, positive alternative. "It's a great movement, it's growing," he notes. "The best time to focus on CHH is now, because this is the right season."
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