Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Entertainment Correspondent
FAST-RISING Zim-dancehall artiste, Edge Sparta, is making his voice heard with a fresh batch of singles tackling some of the social challenges confronting young people.
The Mutare-based artiste has released “Kuwadza Dhanzi”, “Turn It Up”, “Dhindindi”, “Hana”, “Happy, Dancehall Time” and “Check Check”, with the songs touching on issues such as drug and substance abuse, theft, prostitution and the everyday struggles faced by youths.
The tracks offer different moods and messages, with Sparta combining social commentary with the energetic sound associated with Zim-dancehall.
“Kuwadza Dhanzi” tackles life’s difficult choices, while “Turn It Up” brings an energetic feel suited to the dancefloor.
“Dhindindi” and “Hana” add their own perspectives to the collection, while “Happy” carries a more uplifting mood.
“Dancehall Time” celebrates the genre itself, with “Check Check” bringing another lively offering to the catalogue.
The new material has been complemented by two collaborations titled, “Titori Bho”, featuring talented Zim-dancehall artiste, “Mad Viper”, and “Tsvigiri”, a song he did with vocalist, Shaahh The Vocalist.
Sparta said the songs were inspired by issues he sees affecting young people and his desire to make music that carries a message.
Sparta is currently making headlines after being selected as the only local artiste to perform alongside Zim-dancehall heavyweights, Junior Spragga, Killer T and Freeman at the forthcoming Manicaland Agricultural Show at Mutare Showgrounds on October 3.
“This project is very close to my heart because I am speaking about things that young people encounter every day. I want my music to entertain, but also make people think about the choices they make.
“These songs carry different messages, from social problems to happiness and determination.
“I have also worked hard to improve the quality of my music and presentation, and working with Harare producers such as Sparks and 1Kool is helping me take the music to another level,” he said.
Working with Harare producers, Sparks and 1Kool, has also helped him bring a more polished sound to his latest recordings.
The opportunity has excited the artiste, who views the performance as an important moment in his musical journey.
“Headlining such a major event is a game changer for me. It shows that the work I have been putting into my music is beginning to open doors.
“Performing alongside artistes I have looked up to will give me exposure and confidence, but I also want to prove that local talent deserves a place on big stages.
“I am ready to represent Manicaland and give the audience a memorable performance.”
However, Sparta has expressed concern over the conduct of some local promoters, accusing them of failing to honour payment agreements after engaging artistes for performances.
“It is painful when promoters engage local artistes, make agreements and then fail to honour them after the show.
“We put in time, transport, rehearsals and energy to deliver.
“Local artistes deserve to be treated professionally and paid what was agreed. Respecting agreements will help build a healthier entertainment industry,” he added.
Despite the challenges, Sparta described this year as one of the best he has experienced after securing bookings at several high-profile shows.
He remains hopeful that his lyrical prowess and hard work will eventually earn him a place among Zimbabwe’s major artistes.
For now, he is focused on making meaningful music, performing on bigger stages and connecting with audiences through songs that reflect both the realities and lighter moments of everyday life.
With his sharp lyrical delivery and willingness to tackle issues affecting young people, Edge Sparta is steadily becoming a voice to watch in Manicaland’s Zim-dancehall scene.
