Online Reporter
Mathew Masinge
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Explosive Spectacle!
This aptly sums up the Chibuku Road To Fame’s 25th anniversary celebration held at Gwanzura on Saturday.
The event was an explosive 12-hour spectacle that will go down as one of the best Chibuku Road To Fame National finals ever performed.
Main act Winky D’s charisma and vocal command captivated the thousands in the stadium and a television audience of over five thousand.
His performance stood out for its sing-along response, vocal improvisation with the audience, showing his unique connection with the crowd.
He serenaded music fans with hit after hit.
The silver jubilee celebration also featured Killer T, Saintfloew, Feli Nandi, Travellers and Kweseka Bands. Woman of the moment Nisha Ts and Ndunge Yut were included as surprise acts completing a masterful lineup to create a powerful concert that moved the audience.
After years of productivity, identifying young talents, Organisers Delta Corporation solidified their legacy as one of the country’s most dynamic talent search with a fireworks display.
The event gained legendary status as one of the major events on the calendar while bringing life to the revered venue- Gwanzura.
This year’s grand celebration gave birth to a new star, Chitima Band, a Harare based Afro-fusion outfit who were crowned champions after outshinning nine other contestants.
They pocketed US$15 000 plus a recording contract with a producer of choice.
Chitima Band will also receive sponsorship to launch the album after recording.
The six member group was formed in 2023 by six people who met through the Zimbabwe College of Music.
‘‘This is a dream come true, our efforts have finally received recognition. We are over the moon,’’ said Chitima Band leader Charle Chakanetsa.
Chakanetsa said they have gained desired traction to catapult their career.
‘‘We are not stopping now, as we celebrate the prestigious recognition, we will use the same to make ourselves known and grow. Thank you Chibuku, thank you Delta,’’ he said.
Matabeleland North’s Simuniziva and Mashonaland West’s All in One bands were first and second runners up respectively.
They walked away US $10 000 and US$7000 richer
For Delta Corporation’s marketing director Irimayi Muzorewa, this was a befitting celebration.
‘‘We say congratulations to the winners and want to thank our loyal consumers for the continued support.
‘‘This year marked a special milestone for us as the event celebrates 25 years of discovering and nurturing talent, in partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ),’’ said Muzorewa.
This year’s 10 finalists included Core Vibes (Midlands), All in One (Mash-west), Simuniziva (Mat-north), Dab Band (Bulawayo), Bolamba Culture Birds (Mat-south), Afro Pulse (Masvingo), Mnenga Band (Manicaland), Jungle Foxes (Mash-east),Chitima Band (Harare) and DNA Band (Mash-central).
