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Youth Interactive Writer
Gweru’s most sought-after break-dancer, Clyve “Slick That Dancer” Chinhungwa, draws inspiration from the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson.
At 24, Chinhungwa believes Jackson remains a role model for break dancers, even 15 years after his death at the age of 50.
According to top choreographers, break dancing is often performed in hip-hop music circles and has become an integral part of hip-hop culture, influencing fashion, art, and music.
It also emphasises creativity, self-expression, and competition, with contests serving as a common platform for dancers to showcase their skills.
The dancer, who has amassed several awards in his craft, is confident he has chosen the right profession—one that is sure to bring him international fame.
Reflecting on his journey, Chinhungwa is determined to change perceptions about this art form and aims to bring international competition to Zimbabwe, providing recognition for local dancers.
“My vision as a break dancer is to change people’s views on this art form and to draw international competitions to Zimbabwe,” he said.
“I was inspired by Michael Jackson, whose impact on pop dance culture is immense.
“My journey into dance is quite amusing because I was not initially a dancer; my friends were.
“I started as the guy holding the speaker for them, and from that moment, I began practicing to emulate my friends. Dancing helped me cope with personal challenges I was facing at home.”
Chinhungwa, who can perform break dancing to any music, credits his success to rapper Holy Ten.
“My breakthrough in break dancing came with Holy Ten when I created a dance cover for his song ‘Kumbakunevanhu,’ which he shared on his social media. This led to a flurry of calls from other top dancers and artists.”
He attributes his success to prayer and a willingness to learn from others, even those who are not professional dancers.
In addition to starring in Holy Ten’s “Kumbakunevanhu” video, he has also appeared in Trevor Dongo’s “Ginger” and Saintfloew’s “Chiedza” videos among others.
To show his hunger for success as a break-dancer, Chinhungwa has the best moments in his career that he wishes to share with fans.
“My best event ever was when I went to the Global Dance Supreme contest and represented Zimbabwe in South Africa, where I became number one in Africa.
“I think my worst event was when I went for Red Bull Dance Your Style in South Africa, where a young kid knocked me out.
“On top of that, I won Best Male Dancer at the Midlands Awards in 2021, and I was chosen Best Choreographer at the 2022 Zimstars Awards,” he said.
Chinhungwa also participated in the Zambia Street Culture Festival.
Besides his talent as a break dancer, he believes he could have been a motivational speaker.
“I am one multi-talented guy who always tries my best to empower others in this industry.
But who is Slick That Dancer?”
“My real name is Clyve Chinhungwa. I come from a family of four, being the firstborn. I was raised in Gweru, where I attended Mkoba 1 High School. Besides being a break dancer, I have a small spot where I sell electrical gadgets.”
Now a household name in the Midlands province, the break-dancer has vowed to penetrate the international market.
He has everything it takes to scale greater heights in his career and put Zimbabwe on the international map.
Online Reporter