Online Reporter
Langelihle Dube, [email protected]
WHAT began as a platform for house music enthusiasts in Bulawayo has evolved into one of the city’s most recognisable entertainment brands. After hosting 84 editions and showcasing more than 140 artistes, House In CBD is now taking its next step with the launch of its first event in Harare.
Founded by DJ and curator Feel G in 2022, House In CBD was established to provide a dedicated platform for house music while creating opportunities for local DJs and producers. The movement started with fortnightly events at StopOver Club in Bulawayo and steadily cultivated a loyal following among house music lovers.
Over the years, its stage has featured artistes such as Nitefreak, Djembe Monks, Kotwane Hikwa, Deeper Mr Stripes, Ash T, Prince Eskhosini, Stockswit, Just Dre, Kapitol C, Crazy Dee, Ray Naldo,
DJ Sfiso, Mufali, Datboifresh and Samuel Cosmic.
Feel G said the decision to expand to Harare was driven by the movement’s sustained growth and success.
“The leap wasn’t about a sudden moment of ambition; it was driven by consistent growth and data.
By mid-2026, we had executed 84 successful event editions in Bulawayo and showcased over 140 artistes. When you build a community that loyal and maintain an uninterrupted track record of crowd management and high-quality curation, the demand naturally spreads beyond city borders,” Feel G said.
He said the team only considered expansion after establishing a strong operational framework and a distinct brand identity.
“Harare is the economic and media nerve centre of Zimbabwe’s creative industry. Expanding there was the most logical step to scale our platform nationwide.”
The inaugural Harare edition will be held at Pablo’z Club & VIP, a venue Feel G believes aligns perfectly with the House In CBD brand.
“Our brand stands for premium, safe and immersive sonic experiences. Pablo’z offers the exact high-end atmosphere and production infrastructure needed to match the sophisticated Afro House and Deep House soundscapes we curate.”
Feel G said that while Bulawayo and Harare have different nightlife cultures, House In CBD would remain firmly rooted in its identity.
“Urban youth culture shares a universal language: authenticity, quality music and a great vibe. We preserve our identity by staying grounded as a talent incubator and cultural platform rather than just a party.”
He said expanding into Harare also presents challenges, particularly the task of building trust in a new market. However, the platform, Feel G said, will maintain its commitment to creating opportunities for both established and emerging artistes.
“Our core philosophy has always been identifying uncelebrated local talent and putting them on stages that help them scale into international brands. For Harare, we looked for DJs and producers with technical mastery, deep passion for house genres and the courage to push musical boundaries rather than simply playing safe commercial tracks. We intentionally blend proven curators with raw, rising talent.”
The event organiser said House In CBD’s journey offers valuable lessons for other event promoters looking to grow their brands.
“Consistency over clout. Many organisers try to scale before they have mastered their home operations. Over 84 editions, we perfected our event execution, crowd management and brand messaging. Treat your movement like a professional business, build a clear track record, respect your audience’s safety and offer real value to corporate partners.”
Feel G said the Harare edition marks only the beginning of a broader vision, with plans to expand to other cities and eventually beyond Zimbabwe’s borders.
“We have never viewed House In CBD as just an event series. We’re an ecosystem, a talent incubator and a lifestyle brand. Our ultimate mission is to elevate the regional electronic and house music scene and position Zimbabwean creative talent on global stages.
“Harare is simply the bridge, not the final destination. The long-term vision is a connected regional circuit. Whether that means taking the movement to Gweru, Mutare or cross-border into Southern
Africa, any city with a hunger for elevated house music culture is on our radar.”
He said the expansion also provides an opportunity to showcase Bulawayo’s creative talent and cultural influence on a larger stage.
“It’s less about competing and more about commanding respect. Bulawayo has always been an undeniable cultural powerhouse. By taking House In CBD to Harare on our own terms, with top-tier production and high-calibre talent, we aren’t asking for a seat at the table – we are bringing our own table to the capital and showing what Bulawayo excellence looks like.”
Earlier this year, House In CBD also launched The GoodWill, a food donation initiative that encourages patrons to bring non-perishable food items to support vulnerable families in Bulawayo.
