Online Reporter
Maria Chiguvari
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
RAPPER Saintfloew says he is excited after being named as the headline act at this year’s Shoko Festival.
The rapper has established himself as one of the country’s best rappers in the country.
The festival will run from September 24 to September 26 in Harare and Chitungwiza under the theme ‘Unmuted.’
“I can’t wait to tear up the Shoko stage. I’ve been waiting for this moment. This is going to be a really unique performance,” he said.
He will be joined by Voltz JT, who will be returning to the festival.
“I’m so excited to be performing at the Shoko Festival Mash Up Night,” he said.
“Last time I was there it was amazing. I hope you bring the same energy. Let’s celebrate culture and music together on the 25th of September.”
The festival will feature the third edition of ‘Mashoko Tapes’, an innovative music residency that brings together ‘Mash Up Night’ performers to collaborate on an original album.
Supermuno, Millz Million, Easy Ice, Luigi Badgenna and Hooksmith are among the artists involved in ‘Mashoko Tapes Volume 3’, which will be released ahead of the festival.
DJ MadeHerBelieve will round off the line-up with a set on the decks.
Rapper Mugaratia will also return to the festival after performing at the 2024 edition at ‘Peace In The Hood’ in Chitungwiza.
The line-up also introduces songstress Xiba, who will make her Shoko Festival debut, while Bulawayo-based musician Bhila is set to bring his blend of Afro-soul and Mbaqanga to the Harare audience.
A major feature of this year’s ‘Mash Up Night’ will be the live musical backing, with all the performers set to perform with a full band.
‘Mash Up Night’ curator, Dennis Shoko, said the programme was designed to showcase the different forms of Zim Hip Hop while creating an environment where audiences could engage with the music.
“When putting together the ‘Mash Up Night’ line-up, the idea was really to celebrate Zim Hip Hop in all its different forms.
“These are artists who have shaped the culture, artists who are carrying it forward, and audiences who have grown up alongside the music.
“This is a safe and mature environment to watch Zim Hip Hop acts.
“Come through!”
The ‘Mash Up Night’ forms part of the broader Shoko Festival programme, which has continued to position itself as a platform for Zimbabwe’s urban culture, music and emerging creative talent.
