Online Reporter
Langelihle Dube, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
THE reigning Bulawayo Arts Awards (BAA) Outstanding Club DJ, Kotwane Hikwa, reaffirmed exactly why he earned the prestigious accolade when he was crowned the King of Decks in Bulawayo at an event held, at a local joint on Saturday, walking away with US$500 in cash in the process.
Hikwa was locked in a heated “King of the City” clash against seasoned wheel spinner Keezy AM, in a showdown curated by Cotton Lounge.
The atmosphere at the show captured the true essence of Bulawayo nightlife — a scene built not only on rhythm and celebration, but on respect, technical mastery, and an unwavering appreciation for the city’s home grown talent. It was clear from the outset that the night was about more than entertainment; it was about identity, passion and pride.
Before the first record even spun, anticipation was already thick in the venue. Some of the city’s most in demand DJs were warming up, ready to test their skills under the scrutiny of hundreds of eager fans who had gathered to watch them battle.
Kotwane entered the night with a target stitched firmly on his back. Though he boasts a decade long career, he had never before participated in a DJ battle. He approached the contest with a blend of nervousness and meticulous preparation, fully aware that the moment had the potential to redefine his legacy.
Across from him stood Keezy AM, a man well versed in the intensity of turntable combat. Having graced stages with international names like Kabza De Small, Kelvin Momo and Prince Kaybee, Keezy carried an air of global polish and rare experience. Yet he walked in with humility, acknowledging that Kotwane’s unpredictability made him a formidable opponent.
As the crowd swelled inside the venue, the energy sharpened into the kind of electric excitement that signals the stakes are real. The judging panel added an extra level of prestige, led by radio personality Possenti Sikhosana and DJ Nospa, who both served as moderators throughout the night.
The battle was divided into rounds, but many who attended felt the tone was set early. Kotwane Hikwa delivered what would become the move of the night — a bold, seamless blend of American hip hop classics woven effortlessly into the pulsating rhythms of popular Amapiano tracks. It was a mix that embodied the cultural flavour of Bulawayo: rooted in identity, yet open to reinvention. The crowd’s reaction was immediate, erupting into cheers that signalled their approval of his audacity and creativity.
True to his name, Keezy AM took to the decks at exactly midnight, a moment many described as the real beginning of the battle. Renowned for his smooth Afrobeat selections, he delivered a polished, energetic performance that got scores of people on their feet.
Despite both DJs offering strong performances and captivating the crowd, Nospa and Possenti eventually reminded everyone that a winner had to be chosen. On the strength of technicality, creativity and execution — the cornerstones of any DJ battle — Kotwane was crowned the King of the City, a significant achievement considering it was his first-ever clash.
The competition did not divide the camps or fuel rivalry. Instead, it ended on a note of growth and mutual respect. Keezy AM later revealed that Kotwane had offered him constructive criticism, advising him to avoid taking too long between mixes — feedback Keezy admitted would sharpen his sets going forward.
One of the organisers, Mbakisi Ndlovu, described the event as a deliberate effort to empower local DJs and provide them with equal opportunities to showcase their craft. He confirmed that more clashes featuring other DJs would follow.
“We are happy that this battle was a success. We were trying to build a culture where we promote our own local DJs by not bringing in as many of these international acts. The idea is to empower our local talent and capacitate our own DJs with skills to be able to handle huge crowds and functions. Before rushing for South African acts, we believe that we must give our own artistes a chance.
“This first battle proved that we are on the right direction as people came in their numbers to support the battle. This is also a sign that people appreciate local craft and they are ready to support a well curated event despite it headlined by local acts,” said Ndlovu.
