Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
The Chibuku Road to Fame competition is back, marking 25 years of discovering and promoting raw musical talent across Zimbabwe.
In a press statement, organisers said this edition is themed: “25 Years of Discovering Talent.”
“Chibuku Road to Fame returns in 2025, proudly celebrating 25 years of discovering and promoting Zimbabwe’s musical talent. In partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), this platform goes beyond music; it uplifts the arts and empowers upcoming artistes,” organisers said.
As Zimbabwe’s leading music talent search, the 25th edition promises to nurture local artistry and provide aspiring musicians a platform to shine.
This year, organisers have introduced a slightly different setup, reducing the traditional 10 provincial finals to six joint provincial competitions.
The tour kicks off on Saturday with Midlands and Mashonaland West provinces battling it out at Speedway Bar in Kadoma. Matabeleland North will host its event on August 30 at Chinotimba Beerhall in Victoria Falls, while groups from Bulawayo and Matabeleland South will compete at KoNjabulo Beerhall in the City of Kings and Queens.
Mashonaland East and Manicaland provinces will converge at PaGomo Leisure Gardens in Marondera on September 13, the same day Masvingo province hosts its event at Hightown Night Club in Nyika. Meanwhile, Harare and Mashonaland Central will compete at Makuluwani Bar at Whitehouse in Harare.
The national finals will take place on October 4 at a venue yet to be announced.
Organisers said the joint provincial finals will feature 20 groups in total, with results from each province announced sequentially. Three winners from each provincial final will advance to the national grand finale, where the country’s top 10 acts will compete for the ultimate title.
Prizes at provincial level include — first place: US$2 500; second place: US$1 500 and third place: US$1 000. National winners will receive — first place: US$15 000 and a recording contract; second place: US$10 000 and; third place: US$7 500.
Last year’s grand finale saw Matabeleland North Afro-fusion group Kweseka Band claim first prize at Glamis Arena in Harare, taking home US$15 000 and a recording contract. Chinhoyi-based Boom Jazz came second with US$7 000, while Bulawayo’s Music To Music placed third and received US$5 000.
“The Chibuku brand continues to leverage music and dance to strengthen bonds among consumers, while supporting the next generation of rising stars,” organisers said. — @mthabisi_mthire
