Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
PLAXEDES WENYIKA, one of the pioneers of urban contemporary music, may not be holding frequent public shows, but the diva still has the mojo.
Blessed with that wondrous voice, well-choreographed acts and powerful stage presence, the versatile creative was born to entertain.
She reminded her generation — and those lucky enough to witness her rise — of that talent when she wowed guests at the recent 24th National Arts Merit Awards ceremony.
Wenyika was one of the performers in the urban grooves set, which included the likes of Dino Modondo and Baba Shupi (Peace Ndlovu), among others.
Although many thought Wenyika might have joined the musical cemetery, she defied the odds and silenced doubters, proving she still has it in the tank and is determined to carry on. Famed for chart-toppers such as “Wadarireiko,” “Pasina Iwe,” “Amai,” “Kamumhanzi” and many others, the creative community is fortunate to have her as an asset.
In a wide-ranging interview with Zimpaper Arts and Entertainment Hub, Wenyika reassured fans that she still loves the music that brought her fame and fortune. She also shared her musical plans for 2026.
“I intend to release more music this year. In fact, I have a single currently out called “Dai Usiriwe,” Wenyika shared.
With many of her peers starved of public shows, the diva hasn’t stopped performing. “I actually had gigs last year in Kadoma at Odyssey and at the Highbury Festival at the end of the year. I also performed at the Art Farm at Souls-cape in March last year. This year I have had two shows so far: a Valentine’s gig at King Solomon Hotel in Kwekwe and The Sunday Service at the Art Farm in February.”
Judging by the response to her act at the recent NAMAs, Wenyika has remained grounded with her sleek selection. “Urban grooves is the music of our generation; it marks a certain era, lifestyle and memories,” she stated. She also gave her opinion on how urban grooves might have fared if it had been introduced during the age of social media.
“I would have had more exposure, as social media cuts across regions and borders — a wider fanbase.” With many of her peers regretting being in the limelight, Wenyika had none of it.
“I have no regrets. Overall, I have led a pretty blessed life. Celebrity didn’t play too big a role in my day-to-day life.”
She responded to critics who claim that most urban grooves artistes suffered stunted growth due to lack of innovation.
“I say they need to understand the dynamics of music appealing to each generation. No genre dominates forever, but each has its own time and followers. That’s why the concept of “old school” exists. It’s only natural that the next generations have space to express themselves. Life would be stagnant without new sounds. That’s why artistes end up in halls of fame that recognise the part they played.” She also shared a list of rising female musicians who are doing well. “Feli Nandi, Tammy Moyo, Gemma and Annatoria are really amazing artistes. They are already making waves and will continue to do so — their art speaks for itself.”
Wenyika clarified how her marriage to a prominent medical practitioner shaped her career.
“Marriage didn’t play any role in terms of my growth in showbiz. I have always been multifaceted: a singer, actress, radio producer/presenter, economist, entrepreneur, and I have served as a board member of the Zimbabwe International Film Festival and Women Filmmakers of Zimbabwe.
“I have been privileged to participate in these different facets of who I am throughout my life; different gifts took centre stage at different times. I have held corporate positions in the security, health and advertising sectors.
“Motherhood motivated me to explore all aspects to show my children that their dreams were worth pursuing and that they can be many things at the same time and not confined to one part of their life.”
