Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Entertainment Correspondent
IN a refreshing twist meant to rejuvenate grassroots music talent, the Chibuku Road to Fame returns this year with a classic format, where groups will undergo auditions first before facing off in the provincial contest.
The competition, widely known for unearthing raw talent from rural and urban communities, is once again placing emphasis on the audition process this time, fusing competition with cost-cutting measures to ensure the long-standing programme stays afloat amid changing economic times.
National Arts Council of Zimbabwe Manicaland regional manager, Carol Makoni said Manicaland and Mashonaland East provinces have been merged, and groups from both provinces will now compete for just two slots at the national finals.
Five top groups from each province will go head-to-head in the provincial finals in Mashonaland East, with one group from each side progressing to the national showdown.
The Manicaland auditions are slated for next Wednesday at Nyausunzi Beerhall in Sakubva, with seven bands expected to showcase their talent.
Each performing band will perform one song before a panel of local music adjudicators.
“Yes, the old format is back. We are back to the basics. Local adjudicators, who are experts in music will superintend over the auditions.
“They will select five groups from Manicaland to travel to Mashonaland East, where they will compete with five finalists from that province.
“The groups will be adjudged separately, so each province will still get a fair chance. The stakes are high, but the passion is higher, and we are expecting a bigger and better competition as competition will be stiff,” said Makoni.
Seven groups confirmed to be part of the auditions are Dapurahanzva, a traditional music group that has recently rebranded into an afro-contemporary outfit, showcasing their versatility and ambition to stay relevant.
There is also Ntswai Ntswai Academy; Black Arrows who hail from Nyanga; as well as Watsomba Stars. Vhunze, Munenga Band and Musatya Band from Makoni District round off the list of contenders.
“The groups have all confirmed their participation. We expect fierce competition.
The bands will only perform one song. The adjudicators are ready, and we are looking forward to a successful event,” she added.
The Chibuku Road to Fame’s return to auditions reflects a deeper recognition of grassroots support and the growing desire to maintain the integrity of the competition.
Over the years, some critics felt that direct selection of finalists diluted the spirit of the programme, but this new-old format ensures talent must first prove itself in front of a live audience and a qualified panel.
In keeping with Chibuku Road to Fame tradition, certain rules remain sacrosanct — all participants must be between the ages of 18 and 35, and no band member should have previously recorded music in a studio.
This ensures the platform remains true to its core mission — identifying and promoting fresh, undiscovered talent.
Auditions are also happening in other provinces. Midlands and Mashonaland West are expected to hold their own selection events this week, each province preparing its own musical warriors for the national battlefield.
The competition, sponsored by Delta Beverages, has over the years evolved into more than just a music contest but it is a cultural movement and for many musicians, it remains the first real chance at exposure and professional growth.
