Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
With the countdown on to this year’s Bulawayo Shutdown, fans and music enthusiasts are buzzing with excitement as the December edition is promising to give local artistes a major platform.
The line-up that has been shared thus far features South African rapper KO, famed for Sete and Caracara, alongside a strong roster of local talent including Noluntu J, Fab G Mshanakagogo, Bhila, Ma9nine, and Insimbi ZeZhwane. Mzoe7 and Metty Intomb’ Intomb’Emfitshane from Bulawayo have been unveiled as MCs, while performers from Harare include Silent Killer, Jnr Spragga, Hulengende, Chillmaster, and the young Ngwere Diki.
The DJ line-up, so far, includes Bulawayo talent – Eugy, Nospa, Keezy, and Prince Eskhosini.
Fans are equally excited about this year’s theme, “Ubuntu: I Am Because We Are”, which celebrates African interconnectedness and encourages people to reconnect with their roots.
Rapper-cum-radio host Asaph Afrika expressed his enthusiasm for the event, particularly for the spotlight it is giving to local urban talent.
“What’s even better is seeing some of the hottest young acts from the city on the line-up like Noluntu J, Fab G, and Ma9nine. This is exactly the direction we need to be going. This energy will keep the city moving and growing,” said Asaph.
While praising the organisers, Asaph also urged professionalism from both promoters and artistes to ensure smooth operations.
“I’m just hoping that our guys get treated with the respect and dignity they deserve. I hope those handling artiste relations genuinely want to see the performers put on their best possible sets.
“They should make sure artistes’ requirements for performance are respected, performance times and durations are clear, communication stays professional and productive, and that artistes get paid.
“It would be a big win if this marks the start of stronger and professional relations between artistes and promoters in the city. At the end of the day, everyone involved wants the best for Bulawayo and to keep pushing the culture forward,” he added.
The Bulawayo Shutdown, taking place on December 27, remains one of the city’s most awaited events, bringing fans and artistes together to celebrate music and culture.
