Online Reporter
Langalihle Mhiti
Zimpapers Arts, Entertainment Hub
LOCAL musicians are already sketching out an ambitious picture for 2026, promising new music, bigger shows and a renewed focus on taking local sounds beyond the country’s borders.
From established chart-toppers to rising voices, artistes say the new year will be about growth, consistency and reconnecting with fans. Multi-award-winning superstar Jah Prayzah says 2026 will see him balancing live performances with studio work as he sharpens his international appeal.
“The plan for 2026 is to keep representing Zimbabwe with pride,” he said. “I want to release music that speaks to our culture, but also connects with people across Africa and beyond. Fans can also expect more live shows because that’s where the music truly comes alive.”
Dancehall heavyweight Winky D echoed similar sentiments, revealing that he intends to spend more time experimenting with sound while staying true to his roots.
“I am focusing on growth in 2026,” he said. “That means better production, meaningful collaborations and music that reflects what people are going through. I want to tell real stories while pushing the quality higher.”
Hip-hop star Holy Ten, who has enjoyed a strong run in recent years, said the new year will be about discipline and impact.
“2026 is about strategy,” he noted. “I want to drop projects that make sense, not just music for the sake of it. I am also planning to work with more regional artistes so that Zimbabwean hip-hop continues to be heard outside our borders.” Songstress Feli Nandi said her plans centre on consistency and deepening her connection with fans.
“I am working on new music and live performances,” she said. “In 2026, I want to tour more and interact with my supporters in different cities. Music is about emotion, and I want people to feel every song.”
Gospel musician Janet Manyowa described 2026 as a year of purpose and ministry through music.
“My focus is to inspire and uplift,” she said. “There will be new songs and worship experiences, but most importantly, I want to use my gift to bring hope. Music has the power to heal, and that is what I am carrying into the new year.”
Another gospel diva, United Kingdom-based Eleana Makombe, has just dropped her single “Shoko Renyu,” to celebrate the new year. She said she has bigger plans for 2026, from having a women’s empowerment session and live recording to new music.
“I am promising my fans a lot, considering that 2025 was a busy year mixing music and business. This year, 2026, I have a tour in Europe, Asia and Africa, then I am hosting a women’s breakthrough session in the early months to come,” she said.
Zimdancehall artiste Killer T said he plans to capitalise on the international attention his music has been receiving.
“The aim for 2026 is to go global,” he said. “I want to collaborate with more artistes outside Zimbabwe and perform on bigger stages. Our sound is powerful, and it deserves to be heard everywhere.” Afro-pop singer Nisha Ts said the coming year will be about proving her staying power.
“I am working on a solid body of work,” she said. “2026 is about showing growth as an artiste and as a woman in the industry. I want my music to reflect maturity and confidence.”
Veteran rapper Stunner said experience has taught him the importance of reinvention. “The game keeps changing,” he said.
“In 2026, I am adapting, collaborating with the younger generation and staying relevant. Music is about evolution.” Industry insiders say the optimism among musicians reflects a broader hunger to revive live entertainment and strengthen Zimbabwe’s music export value. With major concerts, album launches and regional collaborations already being discussed, 2026 is shaping up to be a defining year.
As fans look ahead, one thing is clear, Zimbabwean musicians are entering 2026 with determination, creativity and a shared desire to elevate the nation’s sound to new heights.
