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Bongani Ndlovu Showbiz Correspondent
MINISTER of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services Professor Jonathan Moyo has expressed confidence in the musical talent of Roki (real name Rockford Josphats), saying the urban groover only needs a major breakthrough in his career.
Prof Moyo’s sentiments on Twitter come after the Chidzoka hit-maker, for the first time in his career, took to Twitter on Monday afternoon for a no holds barred question and answer session.
Responding to a tweet by online writer — Larry Kwirirayi who wrote: “This is one mighty talented Zimbabwean. A pure bundle of awesome talent,” the minister said “Roki is hugely talented. Amazing. He just has not gotten the musical opportunity or break that he deserves.”
Kwirirayi highlighted that in as much as Roki’s fans wanted him to succeed, it all depended on him.
“So many people want Roki to succeed, many of whom are strong critics. Does he want it enough?” questioned Kwirirayi.
He further asked Roki whether he wanted to be a superstar and leave a lasting impression on the local arts industry of which he responded: “I’ve spent more than a decade making music, of course I want it.”
A contentious issue was raised by one Ronald Mubayiwa who said Roki’s problems, which the singer admitted were many, were caused by his reckless behaviour.
“Roki’s problem is that above his shoulders he is always making wrong noises, maybe he needs a better management, maybe.
“Instead of thinking of making more music, he thinks of making more children.”
Professor Moyo was quick to interject Mubayiwa’s tweet saying Roki’s personal life had nothing to do with his career.
“That’s rubbish, that does not belong to this conversation.”
Mubayiwa responded saying: “Yes Prof it’s personal but it affects him as an artiste, no one will take you seriously with such an image.
“Music is made for people and you don’t insult the same people by your behaviour.”
Professor Moyo responded: “You can say that about all successful artistes. We need an industry that knows how to handle that common challenge.
“Let’s hear the ideas Cdes. We’re happy and willing to support you in the national interest.”
Playwright, Raisdon Baya also joined the conversation saying Roki should not be criticised for his personal life, adding that people needed to stick to critiquing his music.
Roki is one of the more talented musicians of his generation but a string of mishaps, bad encounters with women and rumours of drug and alcohol abuse have somehow stunted the growth of his career.
After being disqualified from the Big Brother Africa reality show together with Maneta Mazanhi in 2012, Roki went on to do a collaboration with fellow Zambian housemate Mampi on a track I’ll go crazy. The track topped local charts for several weeks and the two held a number of shows in Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Roki has been involved with many women including former Mafriq singer Pauline Gundidza whom he has a child with.
The singer has five children with four women. Quite recently Roki was in love with songstress Ammara Brown who he dated for two months.
Online Reporter