Chronicle Editor
Mbulelo Mpofu, [email protected]
ANOTHER Zimbabwean star is shining bright in the Australian music scene. TJ Zimba, a 24-year-old hip-hop artiste from Karratha, has wowed the judges at the on-going Australian Idol 24 with his talent and creativity. He performed Khalid’s “Location” with an instrument that he made himself, earning him a Golden Ticket to the Top 30.
TJ Zimba, who also goes by the stage name ZËxÏÏ (pronounced Zee), is not new to the music industry. He writes, produces, and records his own songs and has released an EP titled, “Feels like an end of an era” which is available on all digital platforms. He said his parents moved from
Zimbabwe to Australia to start a new life and that he loves living in Karratha, a city in the Pilbara region of Western Australia.
He is the second Zimbabwean to make it big in an Australian singing competition, following Thando Sikwila who reached the grand finale of “The Voice Australia” in 2022. The Zimbabwean flag is flying high in the Australian skies thanks to these musical talents.
The judges of Australian Idol 24, Amy Shark, Kyle Sandilands, and Marcia Hines, were impressed by TJ Zimba’s performance and professionalism. Shark even gave him a rare compliment.
“Honestly I’m in shock about how professional you are. We’re going to get in big trouble, but I don’t care. You’re too good,” said Shark.
By getting a Golden Ticket, TJ Zimba skipped the final deliberation round and secured his spot in the Top 30, where he will compete with other singers for the ultimate prize. He has already shown that he has what it takes to be a star, and he is ready to take on the challenge. – @MbuleloMpofu
Online Reporter