Chibuku Road to Fame 25th Anniversary Celebration Ends on a High Note
THE Chibuku Road to Fame 25th anniversary celebration at Gwanzura Stadium on Saturday was an explosive 12-hour spectacle that will go down in history as one of the best national finals ever.
The event featured a star-studded lineup, including main act Winky D, who captivated the thousands-strong audience with his charisma and vocal command. Winky D’s performance was electrifying, with the crowd singing along to his hit songs and responding to his vocal improvisations.
The energy in the stadium was palpable, with the audience dancing and singing along to the music. Other notable performers included Killer T, Saintfloew, Feli Nandi, Travellers, and Kweseka Bands, who all brought their A-game to the stage. Surprise acts Nisha Ts and Ndunge Yut added to the electric atmosphere, making it a powerful concert that moved the audience to their feet.
The silver jubilee celebration also marked the crowning of a new star, Chitima Band, a Harare-based Afro-fusion outfit that won the competition after outshining nine other contestants. The six-member group, formed in 2023, pocketed US$15,000, a recording contract with a producer of their choice, and sponsorship to launch their album. Chitima Band’s victory was a testament to their hard work and dedication to their craft.
“We’re over the moon,” Chitima Band leader Charle Chakanetsa, said.
“Our efforts have finally received recognition. We’ll use this platform to make ourselves known and grow. Thank you, Chibuku, thank you, Delta, for this incredible opportunity.”
The competition saw Simuniziva from Matabeleland North and All in One from Mashonaland West emerge as first and second runners-up, respectively, taking home US$10,000 and US$7,000. The winners were overjoyed, and their families and friends were in attendance to celebrate their success.
Delta Corporation’s marketing director, Irimayi Muzorewa, congratulated the winners and thanked loyal consumers for their continued support. “This year marked a special milestone for us, celebrating 25 years of discovering and nurturing talent in partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ),” Muzorewa said.
“We’re proud of the impact we’ve made on the music industry, and we’re committed to continuing to support emerging artists.”
The 10 finalists who made it to the national finals included Core Vibes, All in One, Simuniziva, Dab Band, Bolamba Culture Birds, Afro Pulse, Mnenga Band, Jungle Foxes, Chitima Band, and DNA Band.
The event ended with a fireworks display, solidifying Delta Corporation’s legacy as one of the country’s most dynamic talent search organisers.
As the audience filed out of the stadium, they were buzzing with excitement, already looking forward to next year’s competition. The Chibuku Road to Fame has once again proven itself to be a premier platform for emerging artists, and it will be interesting to see what the future holds for Chitima Band and the other talented performers who took part in the competition.
