Online Reporter
Trust Khosa-Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
GWANZURA holds a special place in the history of Zimbabwean music.
Located just a stone’s throw from Mushandirapamwe Hotel − another sanctuary for legends like Thomas Mapfumo, the Chimbetu brothers (Simon and Naison), Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi and the Harare Mambos − this area is truly unique.
On Saturday, the stadium will host the 25th Chibuku Road to Fame.
Ten groups from across the country will compete for the US$15,000 grand prize.
Mnenga Band from Manicaland, Afro Pulse (Masvingo), Simuniziva (Matabeleland North), Core Vibes (Midlands), All in One (Mashonaland West), Junkle Fox (Mashonaland East), Bolamba Culture Birds (Matabeleland South), Chitima (Harare) and DNA Band (Mashonaland Central) will take part.
The first prize of US$15,000 comes with a recording contract, aimed at facilitating the winners’ entry into the mainstream music industry.
The second and third place contestants will receive US$10,000 and US$7,000.
Running under the theme “25 Years of Discovering Talent,” the contest’s appeal has grown, with participants taking it seriously due to the significant prize money at stake.
True to the theme, this contest, initiated in 2001 to provide exposure for musicians in remote areas, has evolved over the years.
The increased prize money has heightened competition, leading groups to invest heavily in their performances. Improvements have been noted in wardrobe, choreography, and timekeeping, all prerequisites for winning.
Many groups prioritise rehearsals, as the contest is now recognised not only for rewarding talent but also for changing participants’ lives.
Matabeleland North’s Afro-fusion outfit, Kweseka Band, returned home US$15,000 richer at the 2024 Chibuku Road to Fame grand finale at Glamis Arena in Harare.
Hailing from Hwange, the group consists of talented individuals eager for success.
The same excitement is expected at this year’s event, coinciding with the contest’s
Silver Jubilee.
Previous winners include Black Face, Bopoma Stars, Munandi Express, Terry and Bliss, Hwambakwe Stars, Identity Band, Grade 2D, and Romeo Gasa, among others.
The after-party promises to be epic, featuring the country’s household names in showbiz at Gwanzura.
Winky D will perform after the afternoon contest while Feli Nandi will also feature at the event.
Killer T, Saintfloew and The Travellers Band from Gweru, known for their cover versions, will perform alongside DJ Nash.
Last year’s winners, Kweseka Band from Matabeleland North, will showcase their skills as reigning champions and are expected to hand over the crown to new winners this Saturday.
Given the event’s popularity, Gwanzura is poised to host a record crowd, surpassing the turnout at Glamis Stadium last year in Harare.
