Online Reporter
Amos Mpofu
THE much-anticipated Bulawayo Shutdown show, held on April 26, not only delivered an unforgettable night of music and entertainment, but also became a significant highlight of the post-Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) celebrations.
Hosted at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre (ZIEC) main arena, the ZITF’s venue, the event attracted a massive turnout, filling the venue to capacity and setting the stage for an exciting after-party atmosphere that resonated long into the early hours.
With a star-studded line-up featuring top Harare-based artistes like Winky D, Killer T, Enzo Ishall, Bazooker and Oriyano, as well as South African superstars DJ Tira, Nasty C, Zee Nxumalo, Uncle Waffles and Emtee, the show brought together a stellar mix of regional talent. Local talents such as Mzoe7 and Metty Intomb’emfitshane served as MCs, expertly energising the crowd and keeping the event buzzing from start to finish.
One of the stand-out features of the event was the palpable energy, perfectly complementing the high-spirited vibe of the ZITF week. The presence of female performers like Zee Nxumalo and Uncle Waffles kept the crowd on their toes, injecting much-needed high-octane vibes that could easily be mistaken for a festive season celebration.
Killer T’s electrifying entrance was met with immediate cheers as he performed his popular hit Kana Ndanyura, an anthem that resonated with the crowd as they sang along in unison. The connection between Killer T and his fans was undeniable, showcasing the deep love and support he enjoys across Zimbabwe.
Next up, Oriyano, a rising star known for his vocal resemblance to Jah Prayzah, impressed the audience with a spirited performance. His hit Ini Ndakuda sent the crowd into a frenzy, proving that the young artiste is carving a path to success on his own. Despite the initial comparisons, Oriyano is quickly distinguishing himself with a growing fan base and a sound that connects with audiences.
As the night progressed, the excitement reached a new peak. Around 2:30am, the atmosphere shifted dramatically when two vehicles pulled into the backstage area, sparking wild anticipation among the crowd, who believed Winky D had finally arrived. The excitement was palpable, but the surprise unfolded when it was revealed that it was actually a South African dance group. Despite the unexpected twist, their performance quickly won over the crowd, adding an extra layer of energy to an already electric night.
DJ Tira and Nasty C soon took to the stage, igniting the crowd with their powerful performances. The audience sang along to their chart-topping hits with infectious energy, showing the deep appreciation for the South African duo.
The night reached its peak just before 4am when Winky D’s arrival was finally announced. His two vehicles rolled into the venue, with his masked security team escorting him towards the stage. As soon as his unmistakable voice filled the speakers, the exhausted crowd was instantly rejuvenated, dancing and singing with new-found vigour.
However, by the time Emtee took the stage for the final performance, a significant portion of the crowd had already dispersed, following Winky D’s departure. Despite this, Emtee still delivered a memorable set, leaving a lasting impression on those who remained. While the event made waves, there were noticeable gaps in local representation. Despite Bulawayo being the host city, prominent local talents were absent from the stage or only appeared as MCs and DJs, raising concerns about the need for more inclusion of hometown artistes in major events.
Additionally, the VIP and VVIP experience fell short of expectations, as ticket holders found themselves relegated to less desirable viewing areas compared to the general crowd, prompting discussions on event organisation and attendee treatment.
Notably, this year’s Bulawayo Shutdown Show was formally recognised by ZITF officials, marking a new level of collaboration between the event organisers and the trade fair. For many, the event has now officially cemented itself as the “unofficial ZITF after-party”, amplifying the spirit of the trade fair and leaving an indelible mark on the
