Online Reporter
Langelihle Dube, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Bulawayo’s house music scene came alive on Sunday as the Garden of House event turned the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre into a vibrant mix of music, lights and fashion, drawing thousands of fans from devoted followers to first-time attendees.
In the days leading up to the event, organisers announced new house rules, including a no re-entry policy, limits on cooler box contents, and restrictions on Stanley cups, to ensure the night ran smoothly.
Golden Stage access was reserved for those wearing local brands, adding a stylish touch to exclusivity. This emphasis on local fashion paid off, with Bulawayo’s pride on full display through brands like Juluka, Stars29, OFRESH, and the newly launched AfroHolic.
By late afternoon, deep basslines filled the arena, stage lights swept over the crowd, and stylish revellers strolled past palm-decked décor.
The atmosphere was electric: friends reunited in warm embraces, strangers became dance partners, and couples swayed under the glow of moving lights. Laughter mingled with the click of cameras capturing statement outfits, while conversations wove effortlessly into the music.
On stage, Josh Major opened the show with a smooth set that had heads nodding in appreciation. Datboifresh followed, serving up crowd-pleasers before making way for Pretty Gangster, who brought her signature energy to the decks. DJ Skaiva introduced a fresh sound that drew cheers, while Bryce Dj Klasiq kept the momentum going as MC and stage manager.
The night’s standout performance came from Wowrae, whose fusion of house beats and traditional instruments sent the crowd into a frenzy, cementing his set as a fan favourite. South Africa-based Nizhe DeSoul then took over, blending the trending 3 Step genre with deep house in a set that took the audience on a journey.
Ash T brought his own flavour, spotlighting two tracks from Bulawayo’s Afro-house talent Kotwane Hikwa, who hyped the stage alongside him. Harare’s Samuel Cosmic energised his set with the hit Ineko, while veteran Ryan Synth delivered his trademark style, though some fans seemed unconvinced.
Then came the moment many had been waiting for, the debut Bulawayo performance of South Africa-based DJ Tease.
His commanding presence was felt before he even touched the decks, and when he did, the arena erupted. Maintaining high energy from start to finish, DJ Tease left as powerfully as he arrived.
Closing out the night was LaSoul, whose set carried the event to its final moments. But for the Garden Boyz and House Girlz, the party did not end there as they proceeded to attend an after-party at a popular nightspot.
