The highs and lows of showbiz in 2023

The year 2023 has been a memorable one for the showbiz sector, with a mix of triumphs and tragedies, scandals and surprises, achievements and losses. The sector has witnessed some of the most remarkable events and stories that have captivated the audiences and made headlines.
Here’s a glimpse into the riveting happenings that defined this year:

Visa’s fusion with Munch & Sip

In a groundbreaking fusion of business and leisure, Visa teamed up with Munch & Sip, setting the stage for one of the grandest events in Bulawayo’s culinary calendar.

Their collaboration at the Criterion Parks showcased the potential of merging commerce and entertainment, marking a milestone for both entities.

Madlela Skhobokhobo’s provocative track

Breaking boundaries, rhumba artiste Madlela Skhobokhobo pushed artistic freedom to its limits with the release of the controversial Kwamu Kwamu track, sparking intense scrutiny and debate within the artistic realm.

Jah Prayzah’s album launch extravaganza

May witnessed contemporary singer Jah Prayzah achieving a milestone by launching not one but two albums, captivating audiences in Harare and Bulawayo, showcasing his prowess as a musical maestro.
Legendary encounters

The year was peppered with monumental performances, from the arrival of hip-hop icon Rick Ross to the electrifying presence of UB40 led by Ali Campbell, reminiscent of their historic 1982 visit, resonating the echoes of musical legends through time.

Honouring cultural heritage

In a vibrant celebration of culture, President Mnangagwa presided over the National Culture Month in Binga, steering Zimbabwe’s artistic realm towards unity and diversity.

Dramas unfold

Within the glitz and glamour, controversies brewed. From model Ben Chest’s social media storm to the disturbing reports of assault at the Roil Bulawayo Arts Awards, the sector experienced its share of turmoil.

Bidding farewell to icons

Tragedy struck as influential figures died, leaving a void in the artistic sector. The passing of Elvis “MaEli” Mathe, the late Cont Mhlanga’s widow

Thembi Ngwabi, Eric Moyo, Bob Nyabinde, Terry Gee, Garry Mapanzure, and across the border in South Africa, Zahara, and Mbongeni Ngema made it a year and a December to forget.

Artistic renaissance

The sector witnessed a resurgence, as artistes like Jeys Marabini and Tawanda Denga rekindled their careers, with Marabini’s nationwide tour and Denga’s role in the Afrofuturism series standing as testaments to their resilience.

Political artistry

The convergence of arts and politics emerged as artistes, who include Sandra Ndebele, Desire “Moyoxide” Moyo, Dr Gasolo, and Nigel Ndlovu, ventured into the political arena, symbolising a dynamic shift within the sector’s landscape.

Empowering creativity

Initiatives spearheaded by the Government, Minister Mthuli Ncube, and Sandra Ndebele-Sibindi aimed to empower artistes through equipment donations and consultative meetings, fostering a conducive environment for cultural and creative growth.

Celebratory unions and revelations

Amid the creative fervour, love took centre stage as DJ Mzoe and other artists celebrated their unions, sharing their joyous moments with the world.
Global outreach

The year concluded with Trevor Mawaka’s collaborative effort in Kenya, emphasising the global outreach of Zimbabwean artistes, fostering connections beyond borders.

International collaborations and homecomings

The year 2023 has been a remarkable one for the showbiz sector, with a range of achievements and milestones that showcase the talent and creativity of Zimbabwean artistes. Some of the highlights include:

·    A musical video collaboration between filmmaker Daniel Lasker and musician Emannuel “Rootz” Nkomo, featuring the unique sound of the “Hang drum”.
·    A role in an Afrofuturism series of films for actor Tawanda Denga, who starred in the sci-fi feature The Signal.
·    A starring role in a history-themed South African series for veteran actor Ernest Phosa Ndlovu, who has been representing Zimbabwe on the international scene.
·    A feature on Bob Marley’s posthumous album for reggae-dancehall artistes Nutty O and Winky D, who are part of the “Africa Unite” project.
·    A contract termination for hip-hop artiste Asaph, who failed to live up to his expectations after signing a record deal.
·    A comeback and a memorial show for former Ilanga jazz band leader Busi Ncube, who honoured the late members of the band at The Place in Bulawayo.
·    A partnership with a German theatre company for Iyasa, who performed a climate change-themed play titled How is the weather?
These events demonstrate the diversity and excellence of the showbiz sector, as well as its potential to compete and collaborate with the global industry.

While the year may have drawn to a close, the stage remains set for more exhilarating chapters to unfold. The local showbiz scene continues to be a captivating tale, promising an encore of artistic brilliance in the year ahead. – @MbuleloMpofu