Black Diva faces the heat after high-stakes Honde Valley debut

Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub

Fresh off the success of her hit Thilo Lilo, rising star Black Diva is proving she is more than a viral sensation. Her recent booking at the NetOne Albun Honde Valley Marathon in the Eastern Highlands this past weekend is yet another sign of her rapidly growing appeal.

For the organisers, her inclusion was something of a gamble as she is relatively new on the scene and still building experience in live performance. The marathon was one of her first major gigs locally, and she was the only artiste from Matabeleland on a line-up that featured seasoned acts such as Nutty O, Feli Nandi, Tocky Vibes and Jah Signal. She was even flown in from Johannesburg, South Africa, where she is based, a clear sign of the value promoters are beginning to place on her brand.

Taking to the stage without backup dancers, Black Diva delivered a spirited performance, juggling the roles of singer, hype woman and dancer.

However, a video of her performance shared on social media sparked mixed reactions, with some fans urging her to polish her live act.
“I love your music, but I think you need to work on the live performance. Give people that singing voice rather than MCing. You are on the journey to be a superstar and live performance plays a big part to it. Study groups like Mafikizolo. Positive advice from a fan,” commented one follower.

Another added: “Work on live performance. Bring real dancers dressed in costume. You may want to consider a live band of session musicians for shows.”

Responding to the criticism, Black Diva said fans needed to understand the circumstances under which she performed.
“I was all alone on the stage. No backing vocalist, no dancers. I did my best, and the fans responded,” she said.

Some fans also suggested that she refresh her stage wardrobe.
“Black Diva, work on your stage outfits, baby hanti. Your stage outfit should be the first thing the audience gets attracted to before anything else, so work on that. Otherwise, great work,” wrote another.

At the event, the artiste wore a black two-piece outfit – pants and a jacket, a look some felt did not make her stand out, especially with her long braids and a cap covering much of her face.
“My only add-on, for what it’s worth, is your wardrobe. I see you’re usually in black formal, how about you funk it up?” another fan suggested.

Despite the critiques, many applauded her courage and determination.
“Consistency pays sisi. Sooner or later something unimaginable will break out,” one commented.