Rapper Brizza caps breakout year with major nods

Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub

RAPPER Brizza, real name Munashe Chipenzi, has capped a remarkable breakthrough year with his first-ever Zim Hip Hop Awards nominations, scoring three nods ahead of the ceremony set for December 12 at Zimbali Gardens in Greendale, Harare.

Brizza, who hails from Tshabalala suburb in Bulawayo, is nominated for Best Newcomer, Best Personality and Best Hip Hop Group for his collaborative works with producer, KlyveBeats. This marks a major milestone for an artiste who spent years grinding in the underground before finally claiming his space in 2025.

For the rising star, the nominations represent the growing national visibility of Bulawayo’s hip-hop voice.
“Honestly, it feels amazing to be nominated at the Zim Hip Hop Awards. Recognising my work is more than just a nomination for me — it’s a sign that the voice of Bulawayo is finally cutting through.

These nominations make me confident, as I’m still building my profile and improving myself in the game. These nods confirm that I might be on the right path and heading in a positive direction,” said Brizza.

The rapper has been riding a wave of support from hip-hop fans nationwide. He clinched a win at the 2024 Pumula Royal Arts and Community Awards for Best Hip Hop Act.

However, his stellar year did not come without disappointments. Brizza admitted that missing out on a nomination at this year’s Bulawayo Arts Awards “hurt”, but says the setback only strengthened his resolve to return stronger next year.

Refusing to be complacent, Brizza has rounded off his big year with the release of a new EP titled, Kasi State of Mind. The project sees him team up with producers KlyveBeats, Willo, The Curator and Canvus Ports.

“Kasi State of Mind was inspired by real life — the hustle, the pressure, the joy and the pain of growing up in the township. I wanted to capture the mindset we carry every day, which is surviving, dreaming and pushing even when the odds are against us.

“The project is my truth, and it’s the story of where I come from. This EP has no features. I only worked with producers I trusted, and they did a splendid job. I hope hip-hop lovers will enjoy it,” he said.

Brizza is now looking to cement his footprint in Zimbabwean hip hop as one of the acts to watch in 2025.