Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Bulawayo-born rapper Guluva Se7en, real name Nkanyiso Moyo, continues to wave the city’s flag high as his iconic track “City of Kings” has officially been named the theme song for this year’s Bulawayo Arts Festival (Baf).
The song, lifted from his decade-old breakthrough album “Colour of Dreams”, is a lyrical tribute to Bulawayo’s heritage, celebrating it as the cultural capital and a cradle of royalty in Zimbabwe. Despite its recent recognition, “City of Kings” was never crafted with Baf in mind.
“This song was an impromptu one. I tend to just write lyrics based on how the instrumental makes me feel. I had no idea about a song when I walked into the studio, but the vibe took over. I loved Creed’s instrumental, went straight to Cal_Vin’s studio, and we recorded it — it just happened to become an instant hit,” Guluva Se7en told Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub.
The production credits go to two local legends – Creed, who created the instrumental, and the late Mgcini “Cal_Vin” Nhliziyo, who produced the track. Their synergy with Guluva Se7en birthed a timeless anthem now cemented in the city’s cultural celebration.
Released in 2014, Colour of Dreams marked Guluva Se7en’s arrival in the mainstream, earning him a string of accolades, winner – Best Newcomer at the Zimbabwe Hip Hop Awards (2015), nominee – Best Album at the Zimbabwe Hip Hop Awards (2015), and nominee – Best Newcomer at the Midlands Music Awards (2015). Beyond recording success, Guluva Se7en’s live performance resume is a testament to his status as one of Bulawayo’s finest exports. He has shared the stage with local giants like Jeys Marabini, Sandra Ndebele, Madlela Skhobokhobo, Winky D, Jah Prayzah, and Killer T, as well as African stars including the late AKA, Cassper Nyovest, Micasa, Wizkid, Oskido, Nathi, Kid X, Nomuzi (Nomoozlie), DJ Tira, and Durban Nights.
With “City of Kings” now sound-tracking Bulawayo’s flagship arts celebration, the moment marks a full-circle moment for Guluva Se7en, who has consistently flown the city’s flag through hip-hop.
– Follow on X: @mbulelo_smpofu
