Reggae with the right hook: Winky D’s boxing passion punches above its weight

ZIMBABWEAN musician Winky D recently surprised fans with a new four-track EP titled Love Quartet, a departure from his usual socially conscious lyrics. The project focuses on themes of love and navigating relationship troubles.

The first single, Iyeye, was dropped last Thursday night and features Winky D stepping into the shoes of a boxer.

This isn’t entirely new territory for the artist, who has referenced boxing in his music and live shows.

Iyeye tells the story of a couple facing challenges after sensationalist media outlets leak doctored images of Winky D with another woman, suggesting he was cheating.

The song follows Winky D’s wife leaving her home after the scandal, then returns after the truth comes out – a fake photo scandal orchestrated by someone arrested for the act.

Winky D is left lonely and gazing at a portrait, a hint of nostalgia in his eyes. It's a picture of him and his lover in their younger days, before the fame and fortune, standing next to a humble Toyota Starlet, a car that seems to hold significant meaning.

This isn’t the first time the Toyota Starlet has crossed paths with Winky D. He has been spotted cruising in one on the song Shift, further solidifying its connection to his early days.

The first time the Toyota Starlet got a name-drop was in 2011 on the hit "Officer," hinting at the memories it carries.

The Starlet becomes more than just a car; it's a symbol of Winky D's journey. It represents the simpler times before fame, a reminder of where he came from and the love that supported him along the way.

The narrative takes on a double meaning, showcasing the boxer fighting both literally in the ring and metaphorically to save his relationship.

Interestingly, the fight in the song takes place at the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC), a familiar stomping ground for Winky D.

He has launched iconic albums and hosted his signature New Year's Eve concerts there.

Fans may remember Winky D's dramatic entrance at a past New Year's Eve concert – he arrived dressed as a boxer, and the stage was transformed into a boxing ring.

This theatricality symbolised his longstanding fight against social injustice throughout his two-decade career.

While "Iyeye" takes a different approach, focusing on personal struggles, it might still hold onto the underlying theme of life and society being a constant battle, hence the continued use of boxing imagery.

Winky D isn't just a reggae star; he's a champion at heart. He has appeared on XYZ portraying himself as a boxer. This isn't a one-off act — Winky D has donned boxing gear in multiple shows, and his past songs are filled with references to being a fighter.

This love for fighting extends beyond lyrics, with Winky D proudly displaying a trophy cabinet alongside photos of legendary boxers Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson.

Ironically, Ali is known for his spoken word poetry. This legacy might be an inspiration to modern musicians, like Winky D. Muhammad Ali wasn't a poet in the traditional sense, but he had a strong connection to poetry.

Ali was famous for his clever and catchy rhymes used to taunt his opponents. These weren't just insults; they were memorable wordplay that became part of boxing history.

He occasionally recited short poems during interviews, showcasing his use of metaphor and rhyme. Some were even powerful and moving, like his tribute to prisoners during the Attica Prison uprising.

His rhyming style was a forerunner to rap music, using rhythm and wordplay to engage the audience.

While he wouldn't be considered a formal poet, Ali's use of language and wordplay earned him the title of "poet" in the boxing world.

But Winky D’s admiration goes beyond the boxing ring. He's a huge football fan, specifically of Lionel Messi. Winky D has declared himself “Messi we Reggae”, a clear tribute to the footballing great. And if there was any doubt about his loyalty, a photo with World Cup-winning captain Messi himself hangs proudly alongside the boxing icons.

These portraits with sporting legends symbolise Winky D's own pursuit of greatness. He sees himself as a champion musician, dominating the scene just like his heroes dominated theirs.