Ziyaduma Express wins Mat- South Chibuku Road to Fame

Matabeleland South dance outfit Ziyaduma Express has landed a ticket to participate at the Chibuku Road to Fame finals.

The group outshined nine other groups. Vumbachikwe Sounds from Gwanda were the second best and Zondamthakathi Matobo district wrapped up the top three.

Other groups in attendance were Fugees band (fourth position), Maphisa Legends (position five), Insiza Super Sounds (sixth position), Siyabangena Gangsters (position seven), Doctor Luxy and Joy Enforcers (eight position), Mkhando Boys (position nine) and Amangwane Amatsha on position 10.

Speaking to Chronicle Showbiz, National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (Nacz) Matabeleland South provincial officer Percy Vela said the talent displayed at the event was out of this world.

“The function was well attended and the 10 groups that took part in the competition showed that they really were on a mission to win the big prize.

The first prize was US$2 500, second prize US$1 500 and third prize US$1 000,” said Vela.

Chibuku Road to Fame, a talent-spotting platform that enables up-and-coming musicians to become household names as they start their musical careers, is organised by Delta Beverages and the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ). The preparations for this year’s tournament have already begun.

The Covid-19 pandemic caused a three-year break and it was resumed this year with Grade 2D, an Afro-fusion and jazz band from Mashonaland West, taking first place.

The Chibuku Road to Fame competition is looking for another undiscovered talent that will mesmerise the nation. Unpolished performers, from rappers to mbaqanga musicians to Amapiano artistes, are all welcome to enter.

Up until October 14, the competition will be held with the subject “Imba Tinzwe, Cula Sizwe Super Star!” At both the provincial and national levels, participants have the opportunity to earn a range of cash awards, including a recording contract for the national final winner.

The winners of the national final will receive $15 000 for the first prize, $10 000 for the second prize and $7 000 for the third prize, respectively. The provincial final competitions will be held in all the 10 provinces of Zimbabwe, with the national finals being held in Harare.

Chibuku Road to Fame continues to explore and discover talent as this year’s edition includes new genres like Zimdancehall and Hip-hop.

Since its inception in 2001, Chibuku Road to Fame has been the leader in unearthing gems that are expected to dazzle the local music industry. Over the years, the competition has produced bands that include The Travellers Band, Romeo Gasa and Identity. — @mthabisi_mthire