DNA Band from Bindura and Chitima from Harare, claimed the final two coveted spots in the highly anticipated Chibuku Road to Fame national finals. Their victories at the weekend’s provincial competitions have set the stage for a thrilling showdown at Gwanzura Stadium on October 4.
The provincial competition, held at Makuluwani Bar, was a testament to the depth of musical talent in Zimbabwe. Despite fierce competition across various genres, including sungura, traditional, reggae, dancehall, and mbira, DNA Band and Chitima stood out, their exceptional talent earning them their places among the country's best. DNA Band leader Farai Meki and Chitima band leader Charles Chakanetsa have both expressed their determination to compete for the ultimate prize, which includes a substantial cash reward and a recording contract.
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With their wins, DNA Band and Chitima will now join a distinguished lineup of provincial champions at the national finals. The list of finalists is dominated by the popular Afro-fusion genre and includes Core Vibes (Midlands), All in One (Mashonaland West), Simuniziva (Matabeleland North), Dab Band (Bulawayo), Bolamba Culture Birds (Matabeleland South), Afro Pulse (Masvingo), Mnenga Band (Manicaland), and Jungle Foxes (Mashonaland East), a sungura band.
The national final prizes are substantial, with the winner taking home US$15,000 and a recording contract. The second and third-place winners will receive US$10,000 and US$7,000, respectively. These awards underscore the competition's role as a major catalyst for discovering and nurturing musical talent in Zimbabwe, a mission it has championed for 25 years in partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe and Delta Beverages.
The provincial event was a lively affair, filled with mesmerising performances that captivated the audience. Even minor technical hitches from a power outage could not dim the electric atmosphere, thanks to a powerful sound system and the crowd's infectious energy. Beyond the stage, the event celebrated Zimbabwean culture, with free-style sungura dancers vying for prizes and fans enjoying the different flavors of Chibuku.
The Chibuku Road to Fame is more than just a competition; it is a platform that has launched the careers of some of Zimbabwe's most celebrated musicians. Its Hall of Fame includes notable names like Progress Chipfumo, Mark Ngwazi, Romeo Gasa, and Andy Muridzo, cementing its reputation as a crucial institution in the country’s music landscape.
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