Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
For decades, Zimbabwean hip-hop has been authentic, and it does not get more original than Zimbabwe Legit, the pioneering rap duo formed by the sons of the late former Minister of Information and Publicity, Dr Sikhanyiso “Duke” Ndlovu: Dumisani “Dumi Right” Ndlovu and Akim “Akim Funk Buddha” Ndlovu.
Dumi Right, now based in Washington, D.C, is a Professorial lecturer in Music (Hip-Hop) at The George Washington University’s Corcoran School of the Arts & Design. He is keeping the rap flame alive with the release of his latest single, Tell Em, as anticipation builds for his upcoming album.
The track features fellow Zimbabwean emcees Outspoken and Sykotek and is out under SpitSlam Records, the label founded by hip-hop legend Chuck D of Public Enemy. Released as a maxi-single, it includes alternate mixes, instrumental versions, and a B-side titled Inside/Outside, which is climbing US college radio charts.
Reflecting on the collaboration, Dumi said: “Myself, Outspoken, and Sykotek have worked together since the Covid-19 pandemic. We were first featured on a global artist compilation and the chemistry was undeniable. When I heard the beat for Tell Em, I knew we had to bring that trio magic again. Sykotek crafted a brilliant hook, and together we aimed to inspire and uplift, blending Shona, Ndebele, and English lyrics into a powerful, unified message.”
Dumi praised his collaborators, saying: “They’re true professionals. Even though we’re oceans apart, we’ve managed to create something timeless. In a world full of fear and uncertainty, this track offers hope.”
Audience reception has been overwhelmingly positive, with DJs showing strong support.
“It resonates because it crosses genres, yet the message is universal. We’ve got remixes from acclaimed producers like Threepeeoh (UK) and Krohme, both with impressive resumes,” Dumi said.
The full album, also executive produced by Chuck D, will feature hip-hop greats such as Chubb Rock, Arrested Development, and more.
“Having a platform like SpitSlam to deliver this music is a huge achievement,” Dumi added.
The cover art by Nigerian artist Ernest Ibe, which portrays a council of chiefs and elders, reflects the wisdom and creative power behind Tell Em.
Together with his brother Akim Funk Buddha, Dumi was part of the first African hip-hop group to record in the U.S, collaborating with acts like the Jungle Brothers and YZ. Originally from Harare, he moved to the States during hip-hop’s golden era and has remained deeply involved in the scene ever since.
Beyond music, Dumi is a cultural ambassador and mentor. In 2016, he participated in the U.S. State Department’s Next Level initiative, conducting a hip-hop residency in Thailand.
His lyrics, often socially conscious, span diverse themes and styles. One notable track, We Don’t Need, featuring Chubb Rock and Nathaniel Star, touches on the pandemic, police brutality, and Black unity.
Dumi’s contributions have been featured in Billboard, The Source, Wax Poetics, and academic texts like Say It Loud! The Story of Rap Music by K. Maurice Jones and The Hip Hop Wars by Tricia Rose.
He has performed across the globe at prestigious venues such as The Kennedy Center, The Whitney Museum, Blues Alley, Smithsonian Institution, Knitting Factory, and the 9:30 Club.
Meanwhile, his brother Akim Funk Buddha is a multifaceted performance artist, known for blending hip-hop with beatboxing, Mongolian throat singing, martial arts, gumboot dancing, and circus arts.
Zimbabwe Legit paved the way for today’s hip-hop stars from Zimbabwe, including Awa Khiwe, the late Cal_Vin, Maskiri, Mudiwa Hood, and Tehn Diamond.
