Langa Mabena
Blessed Moyo
IN a shocking turn of events that betrays trust and friendship, popular Bulawayo artiste Jaycee, famed for his hit Ungayithi Vuu, is being accused of swindling an upcoming musician, Sharon Chikuni of US$700 under the pretext of co-hosting a music show.
The incident, which has sent ripples through the local music community has raised questions about trust and integrity among artistes.
In an interview with Sunday Life, Chikuni revealed that trouble began last November when Jaycee approached her with a proposal to co-host a music event in Filabusi, Matabeleland South Province.
Eager to make her mark in the industry, she agreed to help organise the event, believing it would be a joint venture.
“Jaycee requested that I hire a sound system and stage, further asking me to send additional funds for promotional flyers,” she said.
He assured her they would split the gate takings, a promise that now feels hollow.
“As the event date approached, I grew increasingly anxious and I never saw any posters or flyers promoting the event,” she recalled.
On the day of the supposed event, things took a turn for the worse. While en route to Filabusi, Jaycee’s car ran out of petrol, forcing them to wait for assistance.
After a two-hour delay, his friend finally arrived, but instead of heading straight to the event, Jaycee insisted they drop his friend off at home.
“I asked him to at least let me perform at the event or to have one of his friends drive me there,” Chikuni said.
“But he mumbled something about needing to take his friend home himself.”
This detour extended their journey by over three hours, and by the time they reached the venue, it was clear something was amiss.
“To my shock, there was no stage, no crowd, not even empty beer bottles scattered around,” Chikuni recounted.
The reality hit her hard, there had been no event at all. Feeling betrayed and robbed, she confronted Jaycee in the days that followed, demanding her money back.
Despite multiple requests, Jaycee only responded to her with excuses.
He claimed he was unable to repay her, promising he would raise the funds soon.
“I am trying to raise your money, and I promise to pay it soon. Please bear with me,” Jaycee said in a WhatsApp audio message he sent to Chikuni.
However, as time passed, he became increasingly elusive, eventually cutting off all communication.
Reports suggest he has since relocated to South Africa, leaving Chikuni with an outstanding debt of US$730.
Jaycee did not respond to Sunday Life when contacted for comment.
The Bulawayo music community is rallying around Chikuni, urging for accountability and support for her cause.
As she navigates this disheartening experience, many are calling for greater transparency among artistes to prevent similar incidents in the future.
In a world where collaboration is key, trust should be the cornerstone of every partnership, artistes seem to agree. (@Sunday Life)
Peter Tanyanyiwa
Online Reporter