Online Reporter
Latwell Nyangu-Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
ENTERTAINER and content creator Ashwin Chiradza, popularly known as Handsome Gudo, has launched a platform called ‘Next Big Thing’ to uplift unheralded but talented artists.
He said the idea came about when he noted the challenges that unheralded but talented artists face, especially when it comes to securing airplay on mainstream platforms, due to limited resources and networking opportunities.
“A lot of upcoming artists find it hard to make it, it’s hard for them to get recording fees and a marketing budget.
“To be honest, talent is there but they don’t have money to even pay some DJs.
“Whoever wins will be the next big artist.
“This whole initiative is to promote upcoming artists who are not getting funding, so they can fund their own projects. The show is on TikTok. Every two weeks, we make sure we have a winner.
“I invite anyone with a talent, beat boxing, guitarists and more.”
He added:
“I have been working with well-established artists but now the focus is on the foundation.
“We don’t choose genre. Anyone who feels they have talent should be part of the initiative.
“So far, we have held three editions, and now we are going for the fourth.
“The first winner received US$550 and his name is Steady Never Sober. The second prize of US$200 went to Mad Dog (Chimbwa Mupengo).
“The second edition winner was King Sly, who won US$300, while the second prize went to Whitney, a 16-year-old girl who won US$150.
“The third edition winner was African Son, who walked away with US$300, and Amanda, another 16-year-old girl, won US$150.”
On how selections are made, he said the process is determined by the audience.
“How we select is an open audition, everyone is welcome.
“All they have to do is request to join the TikTok live stream and have them backtracks/instrumental beats ready to play.
“After you audition, the audience will choose whether you proceed to the next round.
“If you are lucky, you can get a golden buzzer, which allows you to go straight to the finals,” said Handsome Gudo.
Through music, comedy, digital content, and live entertainment, Handsome Gudo has established himself as one of Zimbabwe’s most recognised entertainment personalities.
Throughout his career, he has collaborated with leading figures including Madam Boss, Mai TT, Andy Muridzo, Baba Harare, Jah Master, Garry Mapanzura, and DJ Fantan.
He is also the founder of TikTok Celebrity Box Games, which has featured international artists such as Blaq Diamond, DJ Cleo, Alfred Ntombela, and Demarco.
