Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
It appeared like a match brokered in heaven.
To some, it sounded like an April Fools’ Day prank to imagine Jah Prayzah and Winky D performing together under one roof. Others were convinced that a “lyrical battle” had been drawn, with the show likely ending prematurely.
Both camps had already started stoking the fire ahead of the New Year’s Eve One Big Party held at Glamis Stadium in Harare. The two icons of our time—Jah Prayzah and Winky D—generated excitement through their promotional videos. Fellow musicians, including Diana “Mangwenya” Samkange, Kurai Makore, Killer T, Chill Master and Feli Nandi, rubbed shoulders with these musical giants.
Hosted by Partson “Chipaz” Chimbodza of Chipaz Promotions, in collaboration with the Content Creators Association of Zimbabwe (COCAZ), the event ensured that revellers welcomed 2026 with song and dance. Fans had long been eagerly anticipating this show, which came at a time when both artistes commanded a huge following in Zimbabwe. Their influence is unparalleled, and their maturity was evident on New Year’s Eve, opening an exciting new chapter in the local showbiz landscape.
Without fear or favour, music was the winner at this show. Music is a mission and not a competition; fans had every reason to be ecstatic as they exhibited the highest level of maturity.
“We were surprised by the maturity displayed by fans at Glamis Arena, considering what people had been saying on social media and in the streets,” stressed Chipaz Promotions spokesperson, Jack Dzambasa. He believes fans have matured and no longer read much into the “non-existent” beef between the two artistes.
“When Jah Prayzah was the first to appear on stage, the Gaffa Family (Winky D’s band of fans) remained calm and collected. They watched proceedings peacefully from start to finish, and no missiles were thrown on stage. It was a show of solidarity that should exist for years to come.”
He also commended Winky D’s fans for observing peace after a sound hiccup during their idol’s performance. “If you observed closely, there was a time when the sound was poor during Winky D’s set, but fans did not react angrily. The performance continued after the sound was restored, and that alone was enough evidence that we are dealing with a mature crowd.
“We are planning more of these shows over the course of the year, but at the recently concluded show, music was the overall winner,” he emphasised.
Dzambasa was also humbled by Makore’s courage to perform as the closing act that day. “To be honest, it’s not easy getting all the support that Kurai did, as he performed after the two giants were done. Under normal circumstances, he risked performing for an empty stadium, but to our surprise, he managed to hold his own and pulled through during his act. Fans still waited for him to complete, and this was the kind of support we have been yearning for over the years,” he pointed out.
In his appreciation post on New Year’s Day, Jah Prayzah expressed gratitude for the huge turnout:
“It was indeed a Big Party. Thank you all for coming out to celebrate 2025 and step into 2026 with us. Major thanks to @chipazpromotions for such an organised event; everything went according to plan. Big shout out to my brother @winkyddibigman and every artist who made sure the people had a befitting crossover. Mwari vaisa ruzhowa pane zvese zvamunoronga kuita mune zvakanaka mugore ra2026.”
On the other hand, Winky D was also humbled by the fans’ support leading up to the show and after the event:
“Truth walks in a soulful rhythm, and you, the Gafas, walked with me at the One Big Party. From the first drumbeat to the last echo during my set, your voices blazed and rose like a sacred flame. You communed with a story and struggle woven in melody.”
He also praised fans for their loyalty over the years:
“Over the years, your faith in the Gafa musical journey has been a work of heart and spirit. Every lyrical note you’ve granted space in your hearts and every chant you’ve sent to the sky have stitched together hope and consciousness. Your support irrefutably proves that art does not only exist on stage but lives more in the hearts of those who believe and find meaning in it. Thank you for standing firm and making brave dance moves to keep Gafa music alive. Let the journey proceed in spirited sound as I wish you a blessed 2026. Many thanks to Jah Prayzah, Chipaz Promotions, and all artistes who gave solid performances at the concert.”
In the true spirit of supporting home-grown talent, several music promoters were in attendance with their families. Youth Empowerment, Development, and Vocational Training Minister Tino Machakaire added decency to the show.
With many still comparing the two showbiz gurus—Jah Prayzah and Winky D—it should be mentioned that music was the winner. Comparing the two is unfair, as they sing different types of music.
