Online Reporter
Online Reporter
What began as a celebration of Amapiano music is fast becoming a cultural movement, as the Bulawayo Piano Fest prepares for its second edition on April 12 at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) Main Arena.
This year’s festival promises to be bigger, bolder, and more impactful, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s growing influence in the global Amapiano scene.
Headlining the highly anticipated event are South African Amapiano heavyweights DJ Maphorisa and Scott Maphuma, whose chart-topping hits and genre-defining collaborations have made them household names across the continent.
They will be joined by rising stars Lee McKrazy and Uncool MC, who have been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of the genre.
But the festival is not just about international acts. It’s also a platform for homegrown talent, with local artists like Khotwame Hikwa, Keezy M, DJ Sida, and Umlungo Omnyama set to take the stage. This blend of international and local performers underscores the festival’s mission to elevate Zimbabwe’s presence in the Amapiano movement while fostering a sense of unity and cultural exchange.
“The Bulawayo Piano Fest is more than just a music festival; it’s a movement,” said Jordan Dube, manager of Harris Entertainment, the driving force behind the event. “We’re not only showcasing the best of Amapiano but also creating a space where Zimbabwean artists can shine alongside global icons. This is about putting Zimbabwe on the map as a hub for Amapiano culture.”
Amapiano, a genre that blends deep house, jazz, and lounge music, has taken the African music scene by storm in recent years. Its infectious rhythms and soulful melodies have resonated with audiences far beyond its South African roots, and Zimbabwe has emerged as one of its most passionate adopters. The Bulawayo Piano Fest taps into this fervor, offering fans a chance to experience the genre’s evolution firsthand.
Last year’s inaugural edition drew thousands of music lovers, and this year’s event is expected to attract an even larger crowd. With its high-energy performances, vibrant atmosphere, and commitment to showcasing local talent, the festival is quickly becoming a must-attend event on the African music calendar.
As the countdown to April 12 begins, anticipation is building not only for the music but also for the sense of community the festival fosters.
“This is about more than just entertainment,” Dube added.
“It’s about celebrating our culture, our creativity, and our shared love for Amapiano. We’re building something special here, and this is just the beginning.”
As the sun sets over the ZITF Main Arena on April 12, the sounds of Amapiano will once again fill the air, signaling not just a festival but the rise of a movement.
