Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, [email protected]
After spending several years in South Africa building his career, Amapiano musician Peacemaker Mpala, popularly known as Smekalicious, has returned to Zimbabwe determined not only to revive his presence on the local music scene, but also to use his platform to tackle social issues affecting communities.
Leading that mission is his latest single, Say No to Drugs, a socially conscious offering aimed at encouraging youths to reject substance abuse and pursue more meaningful paths.
Speaking about the track, Smekalicious said the inspiration came from witnessing the devastating impact drugs continue to have on young people.
“Since I came back home last year, I did five songs and promised my fans that by the end of the year, I’d be involved in 50 songs. I’m glad to announce that so far, I’ve been involved in 22 songs since the beginning of the year.
“The pick of the bunch is ‘Say No to Drugs’ because the drug scourge has been ravaging youths. As youths, we need to take a stand against this.”
For the artiste, the latest song represents more than a musical release. It is an attempt to contribute positively to society while reconnecting with Zimbabwean audiences after years spent navigating South Africa’s highly competitive entertainment industry.
Although some local fans may be rediscovering his music, Smekalicious is no stranger to the stage. His artistic journey began as a dancer, inspired by the vibrant Kwaito movement that dominated Southern Africa during his formative years. Raised in a Christian family where music played a central role through church worship, he developed a passion for singing at an early age.
“I grew up listening to Kwaito while in a Christian family where everyone sang in church. That’s where my love for music came from,” he said.
Initially establishing himself as a Kwaito dancer, Smekalicious later transitioned into recording music and officially launched his career in 2011. After releasing several songs, he took a break before returning in 2016 with his five-track album, Omapakisha.
The project reflected the changing Southern African music landscape, blending Gqom and Amapiano sounds at a time when the latter was beginning its rise to continental prominence.
His willingness to evolve with changing musical trends has since become a hallmark of his career.
Among his notable releases is S’groover Nabo Makhe, an Amapiano collaboration with South African producer Visca, which strengthened his profile within the genre’s thriving scene across the Limpopo.
Over the years, Smekalicious has shared stages with some of Southern Africa’s biggest names, including Oskido, DJ Vetkook and Mahoota, Mgarimbe, Bekezela, Platform One, Freddy Gwala, Vigro Deep, Daliwonga, Shota, Drumpope and Visca.
Beyond music, he has also ventured into fashion through his clothing brand, S/O (Smekalicious Omapakisha), broadening his creative footprint and building a lifestyle brand around his artistry. — @MbuleloMpofu
