Babes Wodumo

Babes Wodumo has seemingly learnt valuable lessons after missing out on the BET Awards in Los Angeles in June because she did not get her visa on time.

The Wololo hit-maker has been nominated for the 2017 MTV Europe Music Awards (MTV EMAs) in the Best African Act category and has told TshisaLIVE she will definitely be going.

“This time, I’m definitely going. I’m almost in the last stages of preparation for the visa‚” she said.

Babes Wodumo and Nasty C are nominated alongside Nigerian stars Wizkid and Davido, C4 Pedro from Angola and Nyanshinski from Kenya. The award ceremony will take place in London on November 12.

Babes said she was honoured by the nomination and was excited to have been nominated with Nasty C whom she was nominated with again at the BET awards.

“I feel honoured to have been nominated yet again for such a prestigious award‚ this nomination alone is already a win to me. I’m excited about sharing this with Nasty C as we’re both from Durban.”

On the international front, Taylor Swift leads the pack nabbing six nods, including Best Video for her record-breaking Look What You Made Me Do which debuted at the MTV VMAs in August.

Shawn Mendes nearly ties Swift with five nominations, including Best Song and Best Artist—the latter category featuring the two nominees going head-to-head.

Best Artist nominees Kendrick Lamar and Ed Sheeran earned four nods each, including Best Local Act nods for their respective home regions (Best US Act and Best UK & Ireland Act, specifically).

Sheeran’s smash single Shape of You was also nominated for Best Song, along with DJ Khaled’s chart topper Wild Thoughts, Shawn Mendes’ pop hit There’s Nothing Holdin’ Me Back, Luis Fonsi & Daddy Yankee’s summer anthem Despacito remix featuring Justin Bieber, and Clean Bandit’s mega pop hit Rockabye.

In June Babes hogged headlines‚ after it emerged that she would not attend the prestigious BET Awards‚ because she did not apply for a visa on time due to “miscommunication”.

The singer was the only female to be nominated in the Best International Act: Africa category. — Online

Theatre Strahl on stage with Iyasa

Allan Foti
HAVING first come to Zimbabwe in May of this year, the Berlin-based theatre company — Theatre Strahl — have taken to Bulawayo’s cultural heritage like a fish to water and have acknowledged the edge it has given their production, Black and White Ain’t No Colour.

The Berliners produced the play with local award winning theatre outfit, Iyasa and have already staged two shows in Bulawayo.

Led by director Anna Vera Kelle, the six-man team said they had experienced a culture shock on arriving in Zimbabwe, but had managed to use these experiences to good effect in the play.

“I was instantly blown away by the energy and power of dance and song and knew right there and then that I wanted to portray the same in my work with the play,” said Derek Tafadzwa Nowak.

Nowak was born in Zimbabwe at Harare’s Parirenyatwa Hospital, but lost his mother at birth and was adopted by German doctors who worked at the hospital. The young boy did not get a chance to know his father as none at the hospital had information about anyone else besides his mother.

Nowak’s fellow actor Raphael Schmishke agreed with his colleague adding that the cultural shock had helped him add a new dimension to his work. He said the cultural differences helped him get over the fear of coming to a new country and continent for the first time and this had a direct impact on work on the stage.

“I have been to a few countries, but this was my first trip to Africa and Zimbabwe in particular so I didn’t know what to expect. However, the culture of the people, their patience, and their homeliness helped get over my fears.

“This ultimately helped me get over any fear of an audience that I didn’t know how to get through to,” Schmishke said.

Kelle was charmed by the welcome they received from Bulawayo residents. She said in Germany, most people never stop to chat with strangers, but everyone they had met since arriving in the city had been genial and willing to go the extra mile to make them feel comfortable.

“I was surprised at the way Bulawayo people seem to never get tired of being nice. They talk to everyone and to me, that was a pleasant surprise. In Germany, I’d never talk to a stranger. It’s an interesting cultural difference, one that I believe can be used in art to show that cultural diversity does not translate to fighting or a failure to get along,” Kelle revealed.

The play is directed by Kelle while the music and choreography was produced by Iyasa’s Nkululeko Innocent Dube. The full cast comprises the German trio of Beate Fischer, Schmishke and Nowak, while Isheanesu Caroline Dzvairo, Newman Trinidad Gondwe and Dorcas Ngwenya represent Iyasa.

It is about three Germans and three Zimbabweans who find themselves caught in two worlds. In between their cultures, they build a utopian society of their own. The play is loaded with humour, dance and music with the ensemble dealing with societal prejudices and cultural diversities. It raises a lot of questions such as: How do prejudices and cultural diversities affect our perspectives when we encounter new environments and different people? Do we create new images?

With courage and honesty, the artists meet each other eye to eye and deal with the topics of hope, fear, freedom, community, faith and money. They seem to conclude that we are different but the same.

It was well received in Bulawayo and heads to Harare with high expectations. The show will headline a night of theatre at the Theatre in the Park.

Soul Jah Love

Bongani Ndlovu, Showbiz Correspondent
ZANU-PF national youth league commissar Innocent Hamandishe was right after all, Soul Jah Love is one undisciplined and unprofessional fellow.

When Hamandishe dressed down the artiste in Mutare a few months back at the President’s Youth Interface Rally for disturbing proceedings, many bashed the youth leader for berating their idol and belittling him. They could not be bothered if Hamandishe was justified or not for putting Jah Love in his place.

And now, months down the line, it seems Hamandishe was right after all for describing Jah Love as a chinhu (small fish) as the artiste continues damaging his brand by being irresponsible and constantly not turning up for shows. If he does, he is never on time — at times pitching up at 5AM — a day later at a show he will have been scheduled to perform at about 11PM the previous day.

This tomfoolery overshadowed his album release last weekend which could have easily been the talk of town in preparation for the launch on October 21.

Though his image seemed to have changed for the better with the artiste now under the management of professional Jive Zimbabwe’s Benjamin Nyandoro and slick edgy suits which he is now donning, the artiste has not changed as he is still the same Soul Jah Love who does not fulfil shows, especially outside Harare.

Recently, he angered fans in Kadoma when he failed to turn up at Odyssey Night Club. He was the main act and was due to perform songs off his new album — Ndofirapo that had been released in Harare on the same night. After realising they had been taken for a ride, the nightclub plunged into a war zone as fans pelted the stage with beer bottles, cans and stones. Because of his actions the amount of property that was damaged went into the thousands of dollars. Resorting to violence by fans does not solve the problem and it is Soul Jah Love’s lack of respect for them that should be addressed.

Not even a feeble apology for any of the missed shows has been uttered by Jah Love as he carries on with his life, while his actions leave a trail of destruction. In all this, who is supposed to pay for the damage to property and loss of revenue?

Nyandoro did not give an explanation on why his artiste acts that way saying he has buried the hatchet on the Kadoma issue and instead, preferred to talk about the artiste’s forthcoming album launch.

“I’ve engaged the relevant stakeholders with regards to the Kadoma gig. For now, my energy is on Soul Jah Love’s album launch,” said Nyandoro.

What is surprising about the Kadoma no-show is that, Soul Jah Love’s band had arrived hours before and was just waiting for the artiste to arrive so they take to the stage. Even more worrying is that at times, Soul Jah Love will pitch up at a venue but still not take to the stage as was the case at a show in Bulawayo two years ago. Again violence reared its ugly head when angry fans stoned Palace Hotel after Chibaba refused to come out of the hotel room. This was despite the promoter’s efforts of travelling to Harare to fetch the artiste to ensure that he is in Bulawayo in time for the show. Undoubtedly, the only person who has brought Jah Love to book is Mutare businessman, Isau Mupfumi who filed charges of fraud against Soul Jah Love which led to his arrest two years ago. This was after Soul Jah Love failed to perform at his Pick and Save venue on two occasions. Details emerged that Soul Jah Love failed to perform because he was stone drunk.

Soul Jah Love should learn that his bad boy image will one day cost him big. Fans whom he has continuously taken for granted will not attend his shows because of past experiences.

“Soul Jah Love should be careful with the way he’s doing things. To many promoters he’s an unreliable act, who’ll go AWOL on you at the last minute. In my opinion, he’s the second biggest Zimdancehall artiste in terms of popularity right behind Winky D.

“But the way he’s doing things, no one will care about him in the near future,” said Mduduzi Mdlongwa of 3D Events.

However, there might be light at the end of the tunnel as Nyandoro seems to be keeping a tight leash on Soul Jah Love. This was witnessed by Mdlongwa after they hosted the chanter recently at Club Connect in Bulawayo. The artiste came and performed.

“When he was here in August, I was dealing with Benji who had a tight leash on him. He made it on stage on time though he arrived at the venue way after his band and got me stressed for a while.

“Surprisingly, Soul Jah Love wanted to perform for a second time, but his manager refused,” said Mdlongwa.

He advised Soul Jah Love to however find a way to manage himself and desist from bunking shows as he is burdening promoters.

“The promoter bears all the cost for the damages by fans. I experienced it when Black Motion came late last year and people pelted the stage and damaged property. We had to pay some of the costs as 3D so Soul Jah Love in the long run, will really be costly if he continues bunking shows leading to vandalism,” he said.

Calvin Nhliziyo

Bongani Ndlovu, Showbiz Correspondent
Rapper Cal Vin is on a collision course with local radio station Skyz Metro FM for non payment of services rendered during the station’s successful one-year celebrations held at White City Stadium in August.

The Izandla Emoyeni hit-maker was part of the line up which also included South Africa’s Professor, Stiff, Sandra Ndebele and Madlela Skhobokhobo. He performed two songs at the show for the thousands of revellers who attended the celebrations.

After the show, according to Cal Vin, it has been a back and forth scenario with regards to payment for the performance.

“All I want is my money. I worked as I performed for them as requested and now, I just want my money. At first, I was polite about the whole issue but now I think they’re taking me for granted,” said a disgruntled Cal Vin.

He blamed the radio station’s Thandi Muringa who was in charge of finances for the delay. “I spoke to Thandi about the issue and she’s been rude to me.

She’s the one who entered the wrong account number so that they could deposit my money. Imagine, it’s now nearly two months and I haven’t been paid.”

Cal Vin went as far as asking the Skyz Metro FM team to remove his music from their playlist when he posted ranting on Twitter.

“I was serious when I put that status up that they should remove my music from their playlist. Whether they play my music or not, doesn’t change anything.

“Where I work and dispose of my energy, I should get paid for that,” he said.

However, Skyz Metro FM station manager Godwin Phiri said Cal Vin was not being truthful as they have been updating him on the plight of his money.

“We don’t deal with people through social media rants. He was the one who entered a wrong account number not our finance manager Thandi Muringa, and we’ve the piece of paper he wrote it on to prove that.

“We informed him of the problem at the same time also telling him that the transaction had to be reversed first in order for us to give him his money. Cal Vin has for the past month been told about his money every step of the way,” explained Phiri.

“Cal Vin is the only person who hasn’t been paid. Just because he went about the issue through a social media rant, doesn’t mean we won’t pay him. There are proper procedures that we’ve to follow. By Friday (yesterday) he should’ve received his money,” said Phiri.

He said if Cal Vin wants his music off air, they can accede to his request.

“It’s not as if we play Cal Vin’s music every hour, we play it once in a while like every other musician. If he wants us not to play his music, we won’t because he requested us to do so.”

DJ Black Coffee

Bongani Ndlovu, Showbiz Correspondent
Patrons of Hartsfield Tshisanyama in Bulawayo may want to look for alternative hangout spots this summer as the Matabeleland Rugby and Football board (MRF) — lease holders of the property — have said the once popular spot will not be opened anytime soon.

Hartsfield Tshisanyama was shut down in May this year under the guise of being renovated by 3D Events, who were running the show. It was supposed to be reopened in mid-June, but five months down the line, the spot has not reopened, with only sporting events such as rugby and football being held there.

Sources close to the collapsed deal between MRF and 3D Events say the latter failed to pay rentals to MRF for over six months and some monies from shows that were hosted there such as the Black Motion show.

“They were supposed to pay for each show that was held at Hartsfield, which they didn’t. This was after they’d also gone for months without paying for rentals of the place,” said the source.

MRF boss Thulani Tabulawa, although not revealing what the deal entailed, said Tshisanyama was closed.

“3D Events failed to meet the contractual obligations that we’d entered with them. I can’t disclose what these were but the position is that there’s no agreement between them and us to reopen Tshisanyama,” said Tabulawa.

He said they were not going back on their word of not reopening Tshisanyama.

“Even if 3D Events fulfil their contractual obligations, we’re not going to work with them again. Once bitten twice shy. That’s the approach that we’re taking with them,” said Tabulawa.

However, 3D supremo, Mduduzi Mdlongwa said they were working on reopening the joint next month.

“We’ve paid the money, what’s left is to iron out the terms of the deal. But on our side it’s a done deal. We’re planning an October Beer Fest and that’ll announce our plans for Tshisanyama,” said Mdlongwa.

Tabulawa shot back and said it was mischievous for 3D Events to be telling people that they will be reopening the venue.

“There’s no document in place as an agreement that Tshisanyama will be back. If 3D is advertising that this is the case, it’s wrong because it’s not true,” said Tabulawa.

However, party lovers should not despair as there are other places in the city that they can relax, sipping on their favourite drinks while waiting for their barbeque. They include Esibayeni in Mpopoma, Mqombothi Sports Bar in Nkulumane, Hillside Dams in Hillside, Matsika Shisa Nyama in Luveve, Komazinyane in Bellevue, 747 in Queens Park East and Blue Turkey in Four Winds just to mention a few. Redwood, situated along Plumtree Road, about 37km outside Bulawayo is also another ideal outdoor leisure spot.

Sindi Dlathu

ACTRESS Sindi Dhlathu (pictured) who plays the role of Thandaza in the popular SABC2 soapie, Muvhango is bidding goodbye to her soapie character.

Thandaza is a powerful businesswoman but her celebrated success and brains unfortunately don’t seem to have extended to her love life in the soapie.

“Muvhango has been more than a job to me, it has been my life for 20 years and I’ve loved and cherished every single moment of playing Thandaza. After 20 years I’ve decided to give the Thandaza character a break in order for me to grow as an artiste, venture out to explore new opportunities and discover what I can do as an actress and as a human being.” Sindi in a statement,

Viewers can expect to see her until March next year after a riveting storyline. But according to Muvhango’s associate producer Morishe Matlejoane, the production is not bidding her a permanent farewell but freezing off a character, which means it might not be the last that we see of Thandaza as we know her.

This also means that her character will not be recast. Sindi Dlathu will shoot her final scenes until the end of October 2017.

“I have cherished every single moment Sindi has been part of the shows I have done and she remains one of the most talented people I have ever worked with,” said Duma ka Ndlovu, creator and executive producer of Muvhango.—Daily Sun

Vimbai Musvaburi

Bongani Ndlovu, Showbiz Correspondent
RADIO personality Ruvheneko Parirenyatwa and ex Muvhango actor Lesley Musina who played Ndalamo will next month host the Intombi Young Women In Business Awards pencilled for Bulawayo’s Nesbitt Castle.

The awards, the brainchild of aspiring independent Member of Parliament for Bulawayo South Vimbai Musvaburi, will be held on November 4.

There are 75 nominees in 14 categories that range from media, sport, law education, film, music, farming, photography, fashion, health and medicine to mention a few.

Former Miss Zimbabwe Lorraine Maphala Phiri and Samantha Tshuma will feature in the Hair and Beauty and Hotel and Tourism categories respectively, while  former Big Brother housemate Pokello Nare will be up for the Fashion Award alongside businesswomen, Nomathemba Ndlovu (Posh) and Cynthia Bizure-Sithole (Jan Jam).

The music award will be contested by gospel singer Lorraine Maplanka Stot, Afro Soul artiste Berita Khumalo, rapper Awakhiwe, Ammara Brown, Cynthia Mare, Busi Mhlanga, Selmor Mtukudzi and Tamy Moyo.

The media awards will be a contest between comedian Gonyeti- Samantha Kureva, radio and television personalities Mbo Mahocs, Miss Red- Samantha Musa and Patience Phiri.

Musvaburi said the awards were to celebrate women in different spheres of business and career.

“The awards are to celebrate the young women in business and corporate circles who have struggled to get where they are. We don’t have a specific kind of criteria for a woman who has done well. We incorporate everyone, we’ve a special award to a woman who has gone through her business in informal trading,” said  Musvaburi.

She said ticket sales were on with the cheapest being $90.

“They can find information on our website at intombie.com or our . There are only 200 tickets for the awards, with 75 for the nominees and 25 for VIPs. So there are 100 tickets on sale. If you’re buying one it’s $90, while for two it’s $150 and a whole table is $700,” said Musvaburi.

Media Award Finalists
1.    Taponeswa Mavunga
2.    Ancillar Mangena
3.    Farai Gundani
4.    Gonyeti- Samantha Kureva
5.    Miss Red- Samantha Musa
6.    Patience Phiri
7.    Mbonisi Mahocs

Law Award Finalists
1.    Fadzayi Mahere
2.    Sibonginkosi Hlabangana
3.    Beatrice Mtetwa
4.    Jessie Majome
5.    Esther Sarimana
6.    Amy Tsanga
7.    Rumbidzai Dube
8.    Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights

Education Award Finalists
1.    Fay Chung
2.    Malaika Asima
3.    Dr Hope Sadza

Film Award Finalists
1.    Rumbi Katedza
2.    Chiedza Mhende
3.    Danai Gurira
4.    Eve Mwatse

Music Award Finalists
1.    Lorraine Maplanka Stot
2.    Berita Khumalo
3.    Awakhiwe
4.    Ammara Brown
5.    Cynthia Mare
6.    Busi Mhlanga
7.    Selmor Mtukudzi
8.    Tamy Moyo

Farming Award Finalists
1.    Rudo Boka
2.    Ruramiso Mashumba
3.    Daphne Bayayi

Photography Award Finalists
1.    Mana Meadows
2.    Davina Jogi
3.    Katy Lannas
4.    Jenna Ashley Armand

Fashion Award Finalists
1.    Yvette Marguax Ndaba
2.    Nomathemba Ndebele
3.    Gwendoline Chidoori
4.    Melody Chimedza
5.    Cynthia Bizure Sithole
6.    Lee Madyara
7.    Pokello Nare

Health and Medicine Award Finalists
1.    Dr. Rumbidzai Mucheni
2.    Precious Lunga
3.    Rudo Makunike
4.    Hilda Magava
5.    Candice Mbaita
6.    Joyleen Kafuka

Wedding and Events Management Award Finalists
1.    Sisa Nkala Maposa
2.    Sithokozile Ndlovu
3.    Fortunate Mandizvidza
4.    Lungile Dlodlo
5.    Skha Moyo
6.    Thando Phiri

Hair and Beauty Award Finalists
1.    Lorraine Maphala Phiri
2.    Jackie Mugido
3.    Ruby Lyn
4.    Summer Rose
5.    Eve Chakasikwa

Sports Award Finalists
1.    Kirsty Coventry
2.    Ellen Chiwenga
3.    Makosi Musambasi
4.    Shantel Greenland Bhatch

Hotel and Tourism Award Finalists
1.    Zodwa Mkandla
2.    Samantha Tshuma
3.    Amanda Mtangadura
4.    Barbara Mzembi

Commerce Award Finalists
1.    Grant Thornton
2.    Maude Chifamba
3.    Joseline Chikore
4.    Marrian Hill
5.    Mavis Mataranyika
6.    Valerie Mtake

Gilmore Tee Moyo

Bongani Ndlovu, Showbiz Correspondent
ZIMBABWE’S Gilmore Tee has partnered with MTV’s Shuga, a youth drama series that deals with HIV and Aids issues, to have the show air on ZBCtv and radio stations across the country.

The TV Host and fashionable Global Citizen, Gilmore Tee has partnered with MTV Shuga, an initiative by the MTV Staying Alive Initiative.

Shuga which airs on MTV Base DSTV Channel 322 announced the development on their social media pages.

“We’re excited to be partnering with Gilmore Tee in spreading #MTVShugaDS message across Zimbabwe through the #GTeeVibe on Radio and ZBC on TV. #GilmorexShuga,” read the announcement by MTV Shuga.

An elated Gilmore Tee who recently signed as brand ambassador for Ster-Kinekor said the partnership will see him facilitating the airing of the show on ZBCtv.

“I’m extremely excited to be working with MTV Shuga in spreading awareness on HIV/AIDS across the globe. Above all, I’m grateful to God for granting these opportunities to me. The partnership will see my podcast having MTV Shuga content and also some televised works I will be pioneering for reach across Zimbabwe and beyond. It’s such an honour to have such big brands partnering with you and trusting you with their brands and products,” said Gilmore Tee.

He said Shuga might be aired on ZBCtv as from next year.

“Last week I was in Harare talking to ZBCtv people. We’re late for Shuga to be aired this year, as the season for ZBCtv started on October 1. However as from January next year most probably Shuga will be aired on ZBCtv,” said Gilmore Tee.

MTV Shuga known by many as Shuga is a television drama series that was first aired in November 2009 on MTV Base as part of an initiative dubbed MTV Staying Alive Ignite.

Its first two seasons was commissioned by MTV Networks Africa in association with The MTV Staying Alive Foundation, PEPFAR (The US President’s Emergency Fund for AIDS Relief), the partnership for an HIV Free generation (HFG) and the Government of Kenya, as part of a multimedia campaign to spread the message about responsible sexual behaviour and tolerance. It later became a hit and was aired in 40 different African countries before it was aired internationally in over 70 television stations.

Shuga bagged a Gold Award in May 2010 at the World Media Festival in Hamburg, Germany in the Public Relations Health category for its vivid and uncompromising focus on love, emotions and sexual behaviour amongst the Kenyan youth.

In 2013, production of the series was moved to Nigeria, where the third and subsequent seasons are set. Dubbed Shuga Naija, the new version is a multimedia campaign which educates youths on HIV, safer sex and teen pregnancy.

It also touches on maternal and child health, family planning, gender-based violence and women empowerment. It was produced in partnership with Nigeria’s National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA). The season three of the series was broadcast via 88 television stations across the world, with estimated viewership of over 550 million. The show recently launched its Season 5 which was filmed in South Africa, named MTV Shuga Down South.

African celebrities such as Tiwa Savage, Lupita Nyong’o and Macmillan Mabaleka are some individuals who have featured on the show.

Hugh Masekela

Legendary jazz musician Hugh Masekela sent shock waves throughout the music industry when he announced that he has been silently battling prostrate cancer.

Masekela also revealed that the cancer has spread, but did not reveal to which parts of his body.

“I’ve been in treatment for prostate cancer since 2008 when doctors discovered a small ‘speck’ on my bladder. The treatment seemed to be successful, but in March 2016, I had to undergo surgery as the cancer had spread,” he said in a statement.

Masekela said another tumour was discovered last month but it was neutralised after receiving emergency treatment.

This was after he fell in Morocco in April.

“In April 2017, while in Morocco, I fell and sprained my shoulder. I began to feel an imbalance when I was walking and my left eye was troubling me.

“Another tumour was discovered and subsequently, in September 2017, I had an emergency treatment, and the tumour was neutralised,” he said.

The muso said his battle against the disease was and would be a tough one and has since cancelled all his shows, including the Assupol-sponsored The Hugh Masekela Heritage Festival, billed for November at Rockville’s Elkah Stadium, so he can regain his energy to fight.

“It’s a tough battle, but I’m greatly encouraged by the good wishes of family, friends and everyone who has supported my musical journey, which remains the greatest source of my inspiration.

“I’ve cancelled my commitments for the immediate future as I’ll need all my energy to continue this fight against prostate cancer. I’m in a good space as I battle this stealthy disease and I urge all men to have regular tests to check your own condition.

“Ask questions, demand answers and learn everything you can about this cancer, and tell others to do the same,” he said. – SundayWorld

Jah Prayzah

Melissa Mpofu, Showbiz Editor
ON Friday, Jah Prayzah will launch his new album a happy man as 2017 has undeniably been a good year for the contemporary musician whose legendary status as Zimbabwe’s next great superstar seems more certain now than ever.

As talk of whether the international collaborations route he has taken continues among music critics, on the ground, the endeavour seems to be paying off as the artiste keeps scoring big deals.

While some are yet to appreciate his change of sound and new style of pushing international collaborations, Jah Prayzah has clearly achieved what he sought to do last year.

Since the history-making night in Durban where he became the first Zimbabwean artiste to win an MTV award for Listener’s Choice, he has proved to have a healthy appetite to conquer the continent. After winning the award, he made it clear that he was on a mission – a mission to make a name for himself outside Zimbabwe and months down the line – Jah Prayzah seems to be on the right track judging by the calibre of events he is being invited to perform at and the artistes he is rubbing shoulders with. His local followers have been starved of his performances as most of his time has been spent in studio outside Zimbabwe.

Early in the year, he travelled to South Africa where he teamed up with afro pop band, Mafikizolo for a collaboration on a track they titled Sendekera. To date, the track produced by DJ Maphorisa has been rotated on a series of international music channels and has close to two million views on YouTube. This collaboration opened more doors for Jah Prayzah as he rode on Mafikizolo’s fame and got links to Nigeria’s Davido. He collaborated with Davido on track My Lilly which also has close to two million views.

His efforts did not go unnoticed as Coca Cola was watching and gave the artiste a slot on this year’s edition of Coke Studio Africa – a popular musical show which saw him collaborating with America’s Jason Derulo. To be part of the musical show, producers will have identified immense talent showing how much Jah Prayzah has built a name for himself and proved his worth.

Just recently, he was roped in on another track titled, “Song for Africa”, that features big names such as Akon, Youssou N’Dour, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Fally Ipupa and P Square. Once again, with this track, Jah Prayzah will be exposed to a bigger global audience when it is released.

To seal the deal, Jah Prayzah is now getting invites to perform at some of the biggest platforms in Africa – a privilege that has over the years been reserved for and enjoyed by Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi. Taking over from Tuku, Jah Prayzah was invited to perform at the Baseline Festival as well as the MTN Bush Fire Festival in Swaziland where he wowed audiences with his performances and military attire.

Most recently, last weekend, the Mudhara Vachauya hit-maker was invited to perform at the Mangaung African Cultural Festival (MACUFE) in South Africa alongside Mafikizolo, Davido, Prince Kaybee, Busiswa, Ringo, Tshepo Tshola, Amanda Black and Sipho Mabuse. Grabbing the opportunity with both hands, Jah Prayzah performed his tracks with Davido and Mafikizolo in front of the thousands who attended the festival.

While Jah Prayzah is not the first artiste to perform outside the country’s borders, it is the relevance and magnitude of events that he has graced that makes his story different from the rest who often perform at nightclubs for Zimbabweans in the diaspora.

His manager, Keen Mushapaidze said it was humbling to note that his artiste was right on track.

“We’re excited to be given opportunities to perform on big stages outside Zimbabwe. This has always been our dream, to have our music accepted and appreciated in other countries besides our lovely Zimbabwe that has made us who we are today,” said Mushapaidze.

On their MACUFE performance, Mushapaidze said it was great sharing the stage for the first time with Davido as it also prepared them for the Friday performance where Davido is expected to perform with Jah Prayzah.

“For the first time, we shared the stage with Davido, something which gave us a feel of what the atmosphere will be like come Friday at the HICC when he’ll come through to perform at Jah’s album launch.

“The vibe in South Africa was great, the event was well organised and people there enjoyed his music which was really encouraging for us.”

Back home, Jah Prayzah has more achievements to celebrate as he set up his own studio and record label – Military Touch Movement which has also fared well on the local music scene. With the help of video producer – Vusa Blaqs, the stable has led the way in producing quality music videos.

With artistes – Andy Muridzo, ExQ, Tahle, Chiweda, Nutty O and DJ Tamuka signed under the label – Jah Prayzah has indeed proven that he is a force to reckon with as the label seems to have gained corporate trust and is getting slots at notable gigs such as the OK Grand Challenge and now the Castle Lager National Braai Day. On Friday, the stable’s artistes will help Jah Prayzah unveil his Kutonga Kwaro album at the HICC.

Khuxxman

Bongani Ndlovu, Showbiz Correspondent
AFRO pop musician Khuxxman has revealed that he was recently thrown out by his landlord because of his new track Amaloja which he felt was spiteful and mocked him.

According to Khuxxman, the message behind the track on how landlords mistreat their tenants (Amaloja), did not go down well with his property-owner who felt the song had been composed for him. The track is off Khuxxman’s latest album Uzafel’ejele that was released last month.

Khuxxman said although he laughs about the issue now, it was not funny last month when he was evicted from his lodgings in Entumbane suburb.

“Before the release of my album, I’d play the tracks over and over again. I wanted to hear the sound quality of the track. However, it seems the song Amaloja had a message too close to the heart of my landlord who decided to throw me out,” said Khuxxman.

He said he was already at loggerheads with his landlord by the time he was booted out.

“We’d a frosty relationship and the song just compounded the whole situation. Before evicting me, the landlord called me and told me that I was now singing about the problems I was having with him so it was best that I vacate his premises of which I obliged.

“I really didn’t play the song on purpose, but I guess my landlord thought otherwise.”

As a result of the eviction, the musician had no option but to return to his parents’ home in Old Pumula. He is now staying there.

However, the song seems to be a hit among radio listeners as it has claimed the number one spot on Skyz Metro FM’s top 20 charts for the past couple of weeks.

On Sunday, Khuxxman released a music video for the track on YouTube giving viewers a snippet of how he was treated by his landlord. Shot in the high density suburb of Matshobana, the video features Afro pop musician Mzoe 7 and Madlela Skhobokhobo.

Khuxxman said although the video produced by Multimedia Box was out, he was not happy with the whole production.

“As is the case with most of us in the arts industry, we self fund our music videos. There’re things that I wanted for the music video, but I had to forget about them because I didn’t have much money.

“For me, it’s not of the best quality, but I think it’s good enough for fans to watch and enjoy,” said Khuxxman.

He revealed plans to submit the video to local and international music channels for consideration for airplay.

“We’re distributing the music video to ZBCtv, KweseTV and Zambezi Magic among others and it’s now up to them to play the music video. Sometimes, they disregard the music videos saying they’re of low quality and other things, but we hope they’ll play it.”

The artiste, who has been quiet of late, said he was back and is now preparing for live shows which he hopes to kick-start at the end of the month.

“My crew, Kaisa Dance group and the live band have been working tirelessly, choreographing our live set. By the end of this month, we shall be holding shows in and around the city,” said Khuxxman.

Khuxxman rose to fame in 2000 after releasing an album titled MaAfrica which catapulted him to instant stardom.

The title track, which has an accompanying video, received a lot of airplay on both television and radio. He later switched to house music and produced hits such as Vumelan’ Isangoma and Unyawo Lwami.

@bonganinkunzi

Zodwa Wabantu

Zodwa Wa­bantu says she kept her bra and G-string on for her sold-out per­for­mance at The Sum­mit strip club in Hill­brow, Jo­han­nes­burg, at the week­end.

The Soweto-born provo­ca­teur, who now lives in Dur­ban, de­scribed her much an­tic­i­pated show at the home of strippers as beau­ti­ful.

“I’ve never seen any­thing like it. It was packed and they were all happy. I was paid up­front, but I was given more money through tips,” she said.

“I im­i­tated the ladies who work there, but I couldn’t take off my bra or G-string. I wore a trans­par­ent net. I also tried pole danc­ing, but I failed. It was too hard, I thought I could pull it off but I’m stiff.”

Wa­bantu said she would re­turn to the strip club anytime.

“I love money, I’d do it again.”

Meanwhile, the popular entertainer has quashed claims of a brewing feud between her and another SA entertainer Skolopad. She explained that she just does not want to be painted with the same brush as her and that they are vying for different things.

After refusing to take a picture with Skolopad at the recent Feather Award nominations event, Zodwa’s action led to speculation on social media that she has something against Skolopad.

However, Zodwa has set the record straight.

“Skolopad says she sings. I don’t sing. Even on her Instagram, I don’t see exactly what she’s about. Is she after money or what? She’s just there… (Saying things like) Euphonik I want to help you get over Bonang and stuff.

“She goes to every award ceremony for the sake of it, nominated or not. There’s nothing wrong with that, it’s her thing. She’s here for the fame, I’m here for the money. That’s why we don’t mix,” she explained.

Skolopad burst into the spotlight after she stole the show with a revealing yellow dress at the Metro FM Music Awards earlier this year. She then continuously hogged headlines for her risqué poses, semi-naked outfits and attempts to introduce people to her music.

Zodwa said she wants to “hang out” with people who contribute to her career and share the same passion of “making money” and Skolopad is not one of them.

She explained that her interaction with Skolopad began back at the 2017 Durban July when Skolopad called and wanted to “hang out”. Zodwa claims Skolopad wanted them to be “buddies” and although she initially did not object, the meeting never happened. – TimesLive

Nhlalwenhle Ngwenya, Showbiz Correspondent
A PLAY, The eye in the sand, is set to revive African folklore and the culture of family storytelling when it premieres at the Bulawayo Theatre on October 28.

Written and directed by Nonka Mabaleka, the play is meant to popularise African folktales which of late have not been popularised in comparison with Western fairytales such as Snow White, Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella among others.

“The new generation is no longer being told folktales as was the norm with the older generation when African folktales were passed from generation to generation.

“Western fairytales are known almost worldwide compared to African stories and that’s why I decided to come up with the play that’ll tell the African story to the whole world regardless of race and ethnicity,” said Mabaleka.

The eye in the sand has a 15 member cast including a toddler. The 30-minute long folktale revolves around a fierce lion that wants to eat a hare’s offspring but the cunning hare will have none of it and will do whatever it takes to save its family.

“There’re so many folktales that can be brought to the stage but I decided to focus on this one because it’s a folktale that’s closer to my heart as my mother used to tell it to me when I was young.

“There’re a lot of lessons to be learnt from the folktale. For instance, a hare is a small animal but at the end of the day, it manages to save its family from a marauding lion,” she said.

Mabaleka, who plays a leading role in the folktale, said the actors naturally gelled into the various roles and did not face challenges masquerading as animals.

“It wasn’t challenging for the actors to assume roles of animals. In this folktale, the set up is a jungle and the actors will be wearing African attire. Because of this, the audience will be able to draw lessons from the play in as much as actors will enjoy playing their roles.”

Tickets for the show are already available at the Bulawayo Theatre and Alliance Francaise for $5.

Soneni Gwizi

Danisa Masuku, Showbiz Correspondent
Award-winning broadcaster and advocate Soneni Gwizi who is living with disability motivated others with similar conditions by sharing her story at the TEDx talk held at the Nust main campus last Friday.

Presenting on a topic titled Flawless One, Gwizi said regardless of the condition one finds themselves in, they should strive to rise above it and be a champion.

She said she had developed self-confidence and belief, something that has earned her so much respect.

“I’ve learnt to live a normal life like an able bodied person and that has helped me to instil a sense of self-belief and positive reputation regardless of my condition,” Gwizi said.

She shared her life story saying she learnt under harsh conditions and was grateful to have managed to go to school.

“I grew up in the rural areas. My father had two wives and as such, the resources were not enough to cater for all of us and pay my fees. However, a good Samaritan offered to pay for my education and here I am today,” she said.

The talk, organised by TEDx Bulawayo, an organisation devoted to spreading ideas, usually in the form of short, thought provoking and inspiring talks, was held to empower students and people in different societal classes.

The speakers drawn from different spheres gave inspiring presentations that left  people feeling empowered. Other speakers included Rodwell Harinangoni, Arthur Evans, Mantate Mlotshwa, Robert Malunda, Marshal Chiza and Lady Tshawe.

A life coach and teacher, Rodwell Harinangoni said students should be motivated so that they produce good results.

“During my years of teaching, I’ve discovered that female students hate Physics and Chemistry. When I took the class last year, I had to instil in them a sense of confidence and my words of encouragement paid dividends at the end of the term as most of the female students passed my science subjects,” Harinangoni said.

DJ Tira

Bongani Ndlovu, Showbiz Correspondent
DJ Tira says he is ready to rock Bulawayo during his show at Club Connect on Friday with fans set to sample new tracks from his Afrotainment stable.

Makoya Bearings or Malume, as DJ Tira is known, will sample tracks from the Afrotainment Summer album 2017 released last month.

Already, tracks such as Malume, Amadada and Isicathulo are tearing up dance floors across the Limpopo and Bulawayo will have a taste of the album from its chief producer, DJ Tira.

Also featured on the album is DJ Cndo and Zodwa Wabantu’s track Bheja.

Speaking from his South African base, DJ Tira said he was excited to be coming to Bulawayo after having last performed in the city two years ago at the Kalawa Homecoming party.

Contrary to the rumour mill, the Durban-based DJ who has been working closely with Zodwa Wabantu and touring with her, said he would not be bringing the Queen of Vosho to Bulawayo.

“I’ll be coming to Bulawayo with Tipcee, an up-and-coming house artiste who is behind the smash hit Amadada. This will be her first time there and she’s looking forward to the trip.

“Zodwa Wabantu won’t be coming with me,” said DJ Tira.

Though she may not be part of DJ Tira’s entourage, Zodwa Wabantu – who was barred from performing at the Harare International Carnival – is said to be making plans to travel to Bulawayo to party with her boss – DJ Tira on her own account.

DJ Tira said he was looking forward to hearing house music from the city.

“It’s been long since I’ve heard anything from Bulawayo. I’m looking forward to hearing what the city has in store in terms of house music,” he said.

On the night, he will be supported by local DJs Kead Wikead, Crazy Black and TBass.

Makhosini Hlongwane

Bongani Ndlovu, Showbiz Correspondent
ARTISTES and cultural gurus in Bulawayo have heaped praise on President Mugabe for handing the Arts and Culture portfolio to Sports Minister Makhosini Hlongwane in the latest Cabinet reshuffle.

Hlongwane, who was minister of Sport and Recreation, is now Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture after the Cabinet reshuffle on Monday. He takes over the portfolio from Abednico Ncube who was Minister of Rural Development, Preservation and Promotion of Culture and Heritage.

Artistes welcomed the move saying their sector would hopefully be a bit visible although ideally they wanted a stand-alone ministry. The last time Arts and Culture was a stand-alone ministry was during the Andrew Langa era who President Mugabe fired for ineptitude.

Renowned writer Raisedon Baya said they were relieved that the ministry was now in the hands of Hlongwane.

“We feel that we’re better off now than we were in the Rural Ministry. It was hard to engage the minister. We hope that the new minister will be accessible.

From what we’ve seen Hlongwane do with his sport ministry is that he likes to engage.

“What we’re not sure about is since elections are on next year, will he be able to do anything major in the next 10 months,” said Baya.

He said Hlongwane should start by completing the Cultural Policy, a document that is long overdue.

“The new minister should make the completion of the cultural document his first priority when he begins office. The cultural policy that we’ve been talking about for four or five years has been in the hands of Langa (former Arts and Culture minister) and until now, no headway has been made.

“We’re not going to do anything national without that cultural document.”

Veteran culturalist Cont Mhlanga though welcoming the development, seemed disgruntled as he said arts and culture were not being prioritised in the country.

“Those advising the President see our culture as something secondary to every other thing they were taught by white people. What should be done is to have a stand-alone Ministry of Arts and Culture, in fact Arts, Heritage and Culture.

“It should be straightforward not this appendage of Arts and Culture in ministries of sport or rural or education,” said Mhlanga.

“This shows that the people around the President don’t believe in promoting African culture and heritage. They see our ubuntu as an appendage of something else. We must learn as Africans that everything that we do must speak to who we are. This is because colonialists attacked our being as Africans when they settled on the continent, Zimbabwe specifically, something we should try and mend as a government.”

He said since he was now retired and not bogged down with Amakhosi Cultural Centre business, he was ready to help in any way in setting up the Arts, Culture and Heritage ministry.

“If they don’t know what to do, I’m offering to help them. I’m now retired and not bogged down with Amakhosi things. People just have to create an Arts, Culture and Heritage ministry then see how these three can have an impact on the country’s education, economy, ICTs and a lot of other things,” said Mhlanga.

Comedian and radio personality Babongile Sikhonjwa, who in the past has also been campaigning for Arts and Culture to have its own ministry, said:

“Although this is not what we wanted, it’s better. Hlongwane is an approachable minister and has in the past interacted with artistes.

“The previous minister (Abednico Ncube) who was responsible for the sector didn’t do anything for us so we’re happy with this appointment by the President.”

Added Sikhonjwa: “Surely, we as artistes deserve our own ministry as arts and culture are contributing a lot to the economy of Zimbabwe.”

Rapper, Cal Vin, while welcoming the new minister, said he expected him to help promote the local arts sector.

“We’ve lost thousands of dollars this year to international artistes who have been invited to perform here and have been paid a lump sum. We expect the new minister to put in place policies that will ensure that whatever amount of money an international act receives from a promoter as performance fees, local acts who also perform alongside get at least half the amount.

“This is the only way we can make money as local artistes from the sector,” said Cal Vin.

@bonganinkunzi

Danisa Masuku
Will you pleasure me?

These are the painful words that haunted and resultantly pushed Kudakwashe Kunzekweguta (24), a rape survivor, to write a book and share her heart wrenching story.

Titled Survivor, the 14-page book lifts the lid on how she was raped by her neighbour a few years ago.

“When I dismissed from school at around midday, I saw my neighbour parked near the school’s main gate. He offered me a lift home and I agreed without suspecting.

“When we were approaching Ngozi Mine (which was off route) as we were going to Pumula where I reside, he stopped and parked his car by the roadside,” narrated Kunzekweguta.

She said this is when her neighbour uttered the words. While she was trying to figure out what he meant, the man pushed her to the ground and raped her.

Though she tried fighting him, he overpowered her.

Now, years later, Kunzekweguta takes solace in the fact that the rapist was thrown in jail where he is languishing.

In the book, she advises women who have been through similar situations to seek counselling from men of cloth and professional counsellors. Also, she encourages them not to lose focus.  “No matter what you go through, you have to seek counselling from pastors so that you pick yourself up and overcome the bitter experience in order to lead a normal life,” she said.

Kunzekweguta said failure to get counselling may result in others deciding to commit suicide.

“There’re some women who’re nursing scars of physical abuse. Some were raped and infected with HIV but such people aren’t meant to dwell on that, but instead open a new chapter and focus on the positive side of life.

“Failure to open a new chapter may lead to one committing suicide as they’ll find life unbearable,” she said.

Minister Edgar Mbwembwe

Showbiz Correspondent
NEWLY appointed Minister of Tourism, Environment and Hospitality Industry Edgar Mbwembwe hit the ground running yesterday, asserting government’s commitment to support the hosting of the Miss Tourism Zimbabwe (MTZ) beauty pageant this year.

Speaking at an MTZ press briefing in Harare yesterday, the minister who took over from Walter Mzembi (now Foreign Affairs minister) after                          President Mugabe reshuffled the Cabinet on Monday said government would keep supporting the pageant as it is a way of boosting the country’s tourism.

MTZ will be held on December 9 at the Harare International Conference Centre.

“I want to assure you that government fully supports Miss Tourism and our expectation is that the event will continue to register great success notwithstanding the challenges of funding that you experience.

“Pageants are popular world over for boosting tourism as they create a good image of the country,” said Minister Mbwembwe.

In attendance was his deputy Anastasia Ndlovu, MTZ patron Barbara Mzembi, Harare Metropolitan Minister Miriam Chikukwa and outgoing Miss Tourism Ashley Morgan.

Minister Mbwembwe urged the private sector to support the pageant in order to make it a success.

“We note that there’s limited investment in beauty pageants in Zimbabwe and I therefore urge the private sector and corporates to tango with you (MTZ) to support the event financially and materially.

“There’s so much value you (corporates and business) can derive from associating yourself with Miss Tourism Zimbabwe,” he said.

During the briefing, the MTZ Trust announced through their new spokesperson Spencer Manyembe that preparations for this year’s edition were in full swing.

“Miss Tourism Zimbabwe 2016 was a resounding success, thanks to the support of various stakeholders. We’re pleased to announce that Miss Tourism 2017 preparations are in motion and are flowing smoothly,” said Manyembe.

As part of the preparations, national auditions will be held as from tomorrow to Sunday in Harare at the Andy Miller Hall from 8AM to 6PM.

The MTZ received over 200 applicants from aspiring models nationwide. From the 200, a few will be shortlisted for another round of casting this weekend.

Like last year, the minimum requirement will be an ‘A’ Level certificate, with certificates of diplomas or degrees being an added advantage.

On November 4, the top 15 from the national auditions will be unveiled. They will be expected to attend boot camp from November 25 in preparation for the finale on December 9.

Manyembe said last year’s main sponsor of the pageant, Big Time Strategic Group will not be sponsoring the event this year, but another sponsor who is being kept under wraps has come on board.

Davido

Melissa Mpofu, Showbiz Editor
When Jah Prayzah takes to the stage tonight to unleash his new offering Kutonga Kwaro, his eyes will be on the crowd as he needs to attract at least 2 000 people in order for him and his promoters — 2 Kings Entertainment to recover the money spent on bringing Nigerian superstar, Davido to the country.

But before performing, Jah Prayzah has another hurdle to jump as Davido, as of yesterday, was still in Nigeria where he was recalled by police in Lagos as they wanted to interrogate him over the death of his friend, Tagbo Umeike, following the discovery that his statements were laced with untruths. Tagbo died on his birthday at a bar in Nigeria after allegedly taking 40 shots of Tequila. While the police awaited an autopsy report to ascertain the cause of death, Tagbo’s girlfriend, Caroline Danjuma, had discarded insinuations that he died of drunkenness. She also alleged that Davido ran away after dumping his corpse at a general hospital on Lagos Island.

However, the musician denied the allegation saying he was not at Shisha Bar, from where the deceased was rushed and dumped at the Lagos Island General Hospital. He, rather, said he left the bar for DNA Night Club in Victoria Island area of the state, where he was informed about Umeike’s death.

As a result, Davido has been spending most of his time at the Lagos State Police Commissioner’s headquarters with his lawyer, something which may affect his trip to Zimbabwe and Harare performance.

However, according to show promoter’s, Davido was expected to depart Nigeria last night on board a South African Airways flight to arrive in Harare this morning ahead of his performance with Jah Prayzah.

While most music lovers will be thrilled to have the Nigerian icon who is currently trending with hits If and Fall perform live in the country, the show promoters and part of Jah Prayzah’s management team will likely not even get an opportunity to watch him perform as their eyes will be on the entrance points as they desperately need to recover up to $90 000 that was paid to Davido. Due to this, security – which is known for swindling show promoters at most events – will likely be intolerant as there will be a lot of pressure on them.

In this era of plastic money, it is the promoter’s hope that EcoCash and POS machines network does not die on them tonight as most people will likely buy tickets using those platforms.

In an interview yesterday, event promoters seemed very worried as ticket sales have not been encouraging. According to 2 Kings boss, Tich Mharadze, the uptake of advance tickets has generally been low. The cheapest ticket has been pegged at $20 with the most expensive at $100.

It is not clear if this has been caused by the pricing which seems to be a bit too steep or if people are sticking to their general culture of preferring to buy tickets under pressure at the venue on the day of the show. Some, who may want to attend the show just to see Davido in action may also be waiting to get confirmation that the artiste has indeed arrived in the country so that they buy their tickets after having been duped by some promoters who made people but tickets to shows whose headline artistes never attended.

However, corporates are said to be supporting Jah Prayzah as they are buying table tickets pegged at $1 000 for 10 people.

“We need at least 2 000 paying people to attend the show so that we balance our books as Davido charged us up $90 000. As of Wednesday, the tickets were not really moving though the VIP tables costing $1 000 were selling well,” he said.

Asked if they would consider reducing the ticket prices to about $10 from $20 for general entry, Mharadze said:

“There’s no way we’ll be reviewing the ticket pricing because of the liquidity crunch. If we charge less, it really won’t make business sense.”

He said they were considering reducing security as a way of cutting costs.

Davido who was last in the country two years ago, if all goes according to plan, will be bringing his band to help Jah Prayzah – an artiste he recently collaborated with on track My Lilly – launch his album.

Jah Prayzah and Winky D

Bruce Ndlovu
WHILE the local music scene has been buzzing about the imminent release of Jah Prayzah’s latest album, Kutonga Kwaro, the man many view as his closest competitor for the throne, Winky D, has been conspicuous by his silence.

So deafening has been the silence that some are now wondering what exactly could be happening in the Gafa’s camp.

As Jah unleashes his album at the Harare International Conference Centre alongside Nigerian superstar Davido tonight, questions about what the wordsmith has been up to in the studio will more than likely intensify.

As Jah and Winky’s careers have soared in the last few years, it has become clear that it is no longer possible to mention one of them without reference to the other. Like Oliver Mtukudzi and Thomas Mapfumo, Alick Macheso and the late Tongai Moyo, the two have been joined at the hip by fate and only time’s surgical precision may separate them.

Although any “beef” between the two seems more imagined than real, the release of Prayzah’s latest star-studded effort will therefore raise questions about what the man the musical gods decided was to be his rival has been up to.

Recently, Winky has shown signs that something might be cooking in the Gafa camp, giving fans a taste of his song, Ma Drinks Mu Cup during live performances. When he performed the song at the Chibuku Neshamwari finals in Bulawayo recently, the crowd became electric, as if the few stanzas that the chanter recited were enough to show them that the song was another potential Winky hit in the making.

Snippets of that song performed live gave fans hope that a new single or album was just around the corner but alas, the Gafa camp has chosen to play its cards close to the chest, refusing to divulge any information about whatever the star has been working on.

According to Winky’s manager Jonathan Banda, this is something deliberate and whether Ma Drinks Mu Cup is the lead single from a new project remains to be seen.

“We’ve got our own way of doing things as a brand. With that in mind, I cannot say whether that song is the new single or not. When the time comes for us to officially release a single, then we’ll do so,” he said.

In the past, Winky’s albums have been released close to the festive season, something that has allowed him to cash in on the lucrative festive season period.

In 2015, Disappear dominated December playlists while several songs from Gafa Futi also bossed the charts as 2016 drew to a close.

With that in mind, many would have thought that now is the time to release an album, something that many of his peers in the industry are doing.

Besides Jah Prayzah, Oliver Mtukudzi, Ammara Brown and ExQ have indicated that they have albums in the pipeline while wayward chanter, Souljah Luv, will launch his next Saturday.

With the big names threatening to unleash their latest albums, could the Gafa be feeling the squeeze?

“Winky D has no competition. He’s his own competition. He doesn’t make music for the competition, but for himself and his fans,” said Banda, cautioning fans against being hasty, as good things come to those who wait.

“I can’t announce the dates for an album or single. All I can say is that fans should wait as there could be something around the corner,” he said.