Mbida D rules the roost

MBIDA D, a Mbare-born Zimdancehall artiste, emerged the winner during the tightly contested National Zimdancehall Cup Clash finals held at the City Sports Centre in Harare on December 23.

Born Gift Zimbita, the chanter claimed the ultimate prize of a brand-new car.

As the 4 000-seat venue filled to capacity, the artistes — selected from all over the country — took the stage and tried to outdo one another.

In the end, it became a two-horse race pitting Mbida D against Zim Pogba (Tinashe Mandaza), who also hails from Mbare.

Dressed in a soccer outfit, Mandaza, who imitates French professional footballer Paul Pogba, gave his all and made it very difficult for the fans to come up with the winner.

Silent Killer, another Mbare-born artiste, was a nuisance at the show.

He refused to leave the stage and pave the way for Seh Calaz, who was supposed to perform next.

Heavily built security personnel had to literally lift Silent Killer off the stage.

Partson Chimbodza, the promoter of the show, was happy with both the attendance and performances.

“Everything went according to the script. I am particularly pleased with the talent that was exhibited during the show,” Chimbodza said.

He said he identified five upcoming artistes whom he intends to groom.

“The problem with most of our promoters is that they do not want to scout for raw talent. They mostly focus on established artistes.”

“I identified five talented artistes whom I am going to polish and unleash onto the market,” Chimbodza, who is popularly known as “Chipaz”, said.

Chipaz also took time to wish the nation a prosperous New Year.

“I wish everyone a happy and prosperous 2024.

“To those who love Zimdancehall, more cup clashes will be held in 2024,” he said.