Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube, [email protected]
MORE than 15 years after the death of global music icon Michael Jackson, his influence continues to shape musicians, dancers and entertainers across the world. In Zimbabwe, one performer has dedicated years of his life to preserving that legacy while building a name of his own.
Born and raised in Plumtree in Matabeleland South Province, Skhumz Moonwalker has become one of Zimbabwe’s most recognised Michael Jackson tribute artistes. Through energetic stage performances, carefully recreated costumes and the famous dance moves that made the King of Pop a global phenomenon, he transports audiences back to an era when Jackson dominated the music world.
But behind the glittering jackets, fedora hats and perfectly timed moonwalks is a determined young artiste whose journey began in the classrooms and playgrounds of secondary school.
For Skhumz, the love of music and dance was not something he discovered accidentally. It was nurtured at home, where Michael Jackson’s music was a regular feature and creativity was encouraged.
“My parents loved Michael Jackson, and my father was also a good dancer. Watching and listening to his music inspired me to pursue both music and dance,” he said.
Inspired by what he saw and heard, Skhumz began studying Jackson’s performances. He practised the moonwalk repeatedly, worked on perfecting the singer’s signature spins and adopted many of the traits that made Jackson one of the most recognisable entertainers in history.
What started as admiration soon developed into a serious passion.
During his school years, friends would gather to watch him rehearse after classes. His performances quickly became popular among fellow pupils, while teachers recognised his talent and gave him opportunities to perform at school functions and events.
The encouragement he received during those formative years strengthened his confidence and convinced him that he could turn his passion into something greater.
Today, that early dedication has evolved into a professional career that takes him to different parts of Zimbabwe, where he entertains audiences with tributes to one of music’s greatest legends.
What sets Skhumz apart is the attention he pays to authenticity. His performances do not simply involve dancing to Michael Jackson songs. Instead, he strives to recreate the full experience that fans associate with the King of Pop.
From the costumes and wigs to the make-up and stage movements, every detail is carefully considered. The result is a performance that allows audiences to relive the excitement and nostalgia of Jackson’s heyday.
Many fans are particularly drawn to his remarkable ability to perform the moonwalk, one of the most famous dance moves in entertainment history. Combined with Jackson-inspired outfits and mannerisms, the performances often leave audiences captivated.
However, while many people know him as a Michael Jackson tribute artiste, Skhumz is determined to ensure that his artistic identity extends beyond imitation.
Alongside his tribute performances, he is steadily building a music career of his own.
His music combines house influences with other styles and genres, creating songs that reflect his experiences, beliefs and personal journey. Rather than focusing on entertainment alone, he uses his music to deliver messages of hope, resilience and spiritual reflection.
One of his songs, Kuzolunga, encourages people to remain hopeful even when facing life’s difficulties. The song carries a message of perseverance and reminds listeners that tough times do not last forever.
Another track, Moya Uyakala, takes a more spiritual approach, encouraging young people to examine their lives, choices and values.
For Skhumz, songwriting is deeply personal because much of his music is inspired by real events and challenges he has encountered.
“My music is based on real-life experiences. I want people to be inspired by my journey and know that they can overcome challenges,” he said.
Like many emerging artistes trying to establish themselves in the entertainment industry, his journey has not been without obstacles.
He admits that upcoming performers are often overlooked, regardless of their talent or commitment. In some cases, people are quick to judge before giving artists an opportunity to showcase their abilities.
For someone whose image is strongly linked to one of the world’s most famous entertainers, criticism has been part of the process.
“People sometimes judge us before they see what we can do. Even my Michael Jackson look, with the costumes and make-up, has attracted criticism, but I have remained focused on my dream,” he said.
Instead of allowing negative opinions to discourage him, Skhumz has used them as motivation to work harder and improve his craft.
His persistence is beginning to pay off.
Over the years, his growing reputation has opened doors to significant opportunities within the entertainment industry. He has shared stages with several prominent performers, including South African DJ Fresh and award-winning rapper Big Zulu.
Such opportunities have not only helped him gain exposure but have also strengthened his belief that dedication and consistency can eventually overcome barriers that many young artists face.
Despite the progress he has made, Skhumz believes his journey is only beginning.
He continues to refine both his tribute acts and original music, with the goal of reaching wider audiences and establishing himself as a respected artist in his own right.
One of the projects exciting him is an upcoming Michael Jackson tribute concert at the Bulawayo Theatre. The event is expected to celebrate the enduring impact of the King of Pop while giving fans an opportunity to experience a live performance inspired by the legendary entertainer.
For Skhumz, the concert is about more than paying tribute to the man who inspired him. It is also a chance to demonstrate how far he has come as a performer and to share his growth with those who have supported him throughout the years.
As he prepares for the show, his story serves as a reminder that talent can emerge from any corner of the country when combined with determination, discipline and belief.
From a young boy practising dance moves after school in Plumtree to a performer entertaining crowds across Zimbabwe, Skhumz has remained committed to his dream. His admiration for Michael Jackson may have sparked the journey, but his own resilience and hard work are shaping its direction.
While many tribute artistes focus solely on recreating the success of the stars they admire, Skhumz is striving to do something more. He is using that inspiration as a foundation to build his own legacy while encouraging others to pursue their ambitions regardless of the challenges they face.
At the heart of his mission is a simple desire to inspire.
“I don’t want to be remembered as a role model. I want to be an inspiration. If my story encourages someone to keep believing in their dreams, then I will have achieved my purpose,” he said.
For the growing number of fans who watch him glide across the stage in true Michael Jackson fashion, that purpose already seems well within reach.
