Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
ZIMDANCEHALL stalwart, Sylvester “Freeman” Chizanga, says he had to take sleeping tablets last year as he battled the challenges of a packed programme.
The HKD boss, who will celebrate his 38th birthday on June 22, believes consistency has been the key to his achievements.
However, he acknowledged that he nearly faced burnout last year due to an exceptionally busy schedule that required his team to work overtime − a sign of increasing demand.
“I had one of the busiest schedules last year, and I can only thank God, who is now rewarding us for our hard work and dedication,” he said.
“There was a point when we had to hold, at least three shows per day, especially during the festive season.
“It was a tight schedule that prompted me to employ relief drivers to avoid road accidents.
“At one point, I had to take sleeping tablets because the situation had spiralled out of control, and I had no choice.” Sharing his plans for the first half of 2026, Freeman revealed that he has lined up a series of international shows.
“I will be going to Poland, Germany and the United Kingdom, where I am no longer a newcomer. “I am not bragging about my international breakthrough; I am simply saying that we are celebrating the Lord’s mercy, which has brought us this far,” reflected the “Joina City” hit-maker.
Having started his career in 2009, the crooner has emerged as a revelation in the music industry, thanks to his relentless work ethic and consistency.
“From the day I decided to pursue music as a career after trying various hustles in my life, I firmly believe that the Lord has a lot in store for me, as we are now making waves and navigating the new terrain with zeal and aplomb.
“I always push my colleagues to work hard, and this has always been the secret behind our progress and success.
“Professionalism has taken me this far, and I have always believed that one day I would be successful, as is the case right now.
“However, I am not going to rest on my laurels; I will continue to work hard until we reach the Promised Land we have been yearning for over the years,” he said.
The versatile singer, who has established his own HKD Festival held annually in October, told this publication that preparations for the event have already begun.
“October might be seven months away, but the real planning for this festival, which has become a permanent feature on the showbiz calendar, has started.
“After evaluating last year’s edition, which lived up to expectations, we never rest.
“I challenged my team to start preparing for the HKD Festival for 2026. I always do this with my team to ensure that I keep them busy, and we can win together as a clique,” he said.
As one of the torchbearers and youth icons who started from the bottom, Freeman assured fans that he is ready to work with new stars.
“I have always wanted to empower others, and that has been my other calling.
“I always give upcoming stars the exposure they need, and I am happy that I will continue to do my best to empower them.
“When I hold my old shows with my group, I make sure there is a slot for youngsters and other upcoming stars, including female artists.
“I was assisted by others before, and it is my turn to return the favour by helping others,” Freeman said.
Mathew Masinge