‘Pariah’ by Shona Prince: An album for the outcasts

TAWANDA CHARI

Takura, who also goes by Shona Prince, has resurfaced with Pariah. The title itself speaks volumes—Pariah, a term that describes an outcast, someone pushed to the margins, someone who doesn’t quite fit. And through this deeply personal project, Shona Prince lays bare his struggles, making it clear that he has often felt like one himself.

For an artist who has publicly battled mental health challenges and even announced quitting music multiple times, this album feels like a necessary exhale. He did describe Pariah as his last project. Takura mentioned on Instagram confirming Pariah as a farewell project, dashing hopes for a sequel to the classic Someone Had to It. 

The opening track, My Side featuring Zimpraise, sets the tone for the album.

 “Dear God, it’s me again, I know you said you’d answer me but when?” he pleads. It’s the cry of a man who has wrestled with his faith, his mind, and his demons, searching for solace where he can find it. Simba, the follow-up track, reminds him that strength lies in the knowledge that Jesus loves him despite it all.

Throughout Pariah, Takura explores what it means to feel disconnected—not just from the world, but from himself. Relationships, faith, music and self-acceptance all come under scrutiny. Wazodai (Do You) asks a tough but necessary question: Do you treat yourself with the same care and responsibility as you would someone you love? The thematic depth in this album is undeniable.

Yet, Pariah doesn’t wallow in its heaviness. It’s a balanced body of work that seamlessly blends introspection with the smooth R&B/pop sound that made him a household name. The Haarore hitmaker ensures that even an outcast can have a good time. Tracks like Blaz Vebhosvo, with its playful Nutin Nuh Go So interpolation, bring infectious energy, while She Dance is tailor-made for the dance floor. This is an album that acknowledges pain but refuses to be consumed by it.

Production-wise, Pariah is polished, refined and easy on the ear. The features add depth without overshadowing the album’s central theme too much. Zimpraise, Maeywon, Max Ari, Nutty O, and Shannon each bring something unique to the project, enhancing its richness.

Takura wears his scars openly on Pariah, but in doing so, he crafts an album that resonates beyond just his own struggles. It’s an attempt to finding joy even when you feel like an outsider, to embracing your status as a pariah and making it your strength. And in that, Pariah is nothing short of triumphant.

You can stream Pariah by Shona Prince below:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/3xnN3HhXxcylVY7CZt2Iab?si=SkU6DujwQSayT9RsiaoaYQ

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@shonaprincesings?si=k6NMVqsWcI18cjLp