Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
BULAWAYO’S arts scene is poised for a significant uplift with the launch of Creative Bluez, an innovative initiative aimed at nurturing and showcasing the city’s emerging musical talent.
The project, developed by Kulture Studios producers Lungile “Lungz D” Dube and Tanaka Leroy Moyo, also known as Sparks 45, offers aspiring singers a platform to refine their craft, collaborate, and produce original music that pushes creative boundaries.
At the core of Creative Bluez is an intensive “boot camp” held in the tranquil landscapes of Matopo, where nine carefully selected artistes recently spent seven days immersed in song-writing, recording and performance.
The selected artistes include Nomazulu Mguni, known as Noma, who specialises in Afrohouse and Amapiano; Karen Dhliwayo, also known as Acquillah K, who performs Afro-soul, Afro-pop and RnB; Catherine Taruvinga, aka Cathy, who blends Afro-beats with Reggae Dancehall; Kingsley Siziba, known as Kingsley Summer, who focuses on Amapiano; Denzel Takudzwa Pfute, aka Amigoroyce, who works in Hip-hop and Afro-beats; Walter Mcebisi Dlamini, known as D Lax, who performs Afro-pop and Dancehall; Khotso Dube, aka The Juggernaut, who is rooted in Dancehall; Nkosinomusa Tshuma, known as Lakosta, who brings Kasi Rap and Amapiano; and Garikai Chakanyuka, aka GaRy, who specialises in Soul, RnB and Afro-pop.
“For seven days, these artistes were taken to an isolated resort, far from the distractions of everyday life. Their main goal was to collaboratively write and produce 21 original songs,” said Lungz D.
The boot camp will culminate in a live showcase in Bulawayo this October, where the nine artistes will perform their newly created songs alongside dynamic dance routines. Lungz D noted that the boot camp was not without its challenges.
“Artistes had to navigate creative differences, overcome writer’s block, and meet the physical and mental demands of producing so much music in a short space of time. These moments of struggle, mixed with bursts of inspiration and camaraderie, created a compelling and authentic journey.”
He encouraged the public to look forward to the upcoming showcase, describing it as a spectacular display of the artistes’ creativity and talent.
“It’s an opportunity for the community to witness the fruits of the Matopo boot camp and celebrate Bulawayo’s next generation of musical stars,” he said.
Creative Bluez is more than a talent show; it is a strategic investment in the future of Bulawayo’s arts scene.
“By providing a dedicated space for creation, mentorship, and exposure, the initiative is actively elevating opportunities for young creatives in the city,” Lungz D said. — @mthabisi_mthire
