Namibian jazz singer and songwriter Erna Chimu continues to inspire through her music and dedication to culture and the community. 
Having recently released her latest album titled “/nanu”, which means “rain,” Chimu says the project celebrates life in all its complexities. 
“It’s a happy album, celebrating life with all its challenges,” she said. 
The 10-track album was recorded live at Success Crown Music Studios and features various artists, including a collaboration with Setson Wahengo. 
“Can you imagine I even sang Oshiwanbo on one track,” she shared with a laugh. Admittedly, Chimu’s musical journey is rooted deeply in her family. 
“I am the product conceived out of two powerhouse musicians, my parents,” she shared. 
Her mother was a musical genius, and her father played multiple instruments including the accordion. Although he wasn’t present during her upbringing, Chimu would later learn about his talents. Her passion for music began when she accompanied her mother to family choirs and later joined her brothers’ reggae band. The live sound captured her attention, and she eventually found choir singing too limiting.
“It was just a hobby, something I wholeheartedly loved doing, and never in my wildest dreams did I think this would become my career” she highlights.

EARLY YEARS
Starting out, Chimu first recorded a gospel album titled Do You Believe, although it was never released. Two songs from the album were featured on NBC’s Voices of Namibia. Reflecting on that time, she explained that she had not yet found her niche. 
“Many people here only sang jazz standards – songs that didn’t belong to them. I am a lover of traditional music, and the fear of how people speaking Khoe Khoe Gowab always speak Afrikaans didn’t sit well with me,” she said. 
Determined to preserve her mother tongue and culture, she embraced traditional music as her foundation.
“Since I love the language, I took it upon myself to entertain, educate and preserve this language for generations to come” she continues. 
Her musical inspirations include African legends such as Miriam Makeba and Salif Keita. “I didn’t understand a thing, but it had me dancing and humming. That’s when I knew what I wanted to do,” she recalled. “I told myself I am going to do traditional music, but I’ll make it so relatable for everyone to enjoy.”
In 2014, Chimu was named Best Female Artist of the Year at the NAMAs, a recognition she describes as a turning point. “It came as a surprise because it isn’t a category you nominate yourself for. That pushed me to work harder,” she said. The recognition opened more doors and gave her the opportunity to connect with larger audiences.

PERSONAL GROWTH
Beyond her music, Chimu is passionate about empowering others. She serves as a board member of the Lidar Community Program based in Katutura, which supports vulnerable young girls who have dropped out of school. “We have helped many young girls go back to school to obtain their grade 12 certificate. Some today are graduates from UNAM, working in companies, and still volunteer during weekends,” she explained. The program now aims to expand its support to include boys as well.
Reflecting on her early years in the industry, Chimu acknowledges the male dominance in the music scene. “That didn’t bother me.”
When I told my brothers I wanted to pursue a solo career after backing a band for 25 years, there were concerns and worries. But I eventually convinced them, and I never looked back.”
Chimu also spoke on the importance of personal growth during quiet periods when there are no shows. 
“That’s when I work on my craft or catch up with family. It’s important for me,” she said.
To fellow artists, Chimu offered a strong reminder: “Artists should remember that they are the voice of the voiceless and must use that platform to address issues in their community. Show up, sober and on time.”
To aspiring musicians, her advice is clear and heartfelt. “Compose your own music and stop imitating other people’s stories. It’s time for the world to hear your heartbeat, Namibian child. I know it’s scary to share something from your heart for the first time. Do not copy, do you.”
With her commitment to preserving culture, uplifting communities, and staying true to her roots, Erna Chimu continues to stand as one of Namibia’s most influential musical voices.