All roads will lead to Bulawayo as Zimbabwe's music titans, Winky D and Jah Prayzah, lock horns in a year-end showdown dubbed Bulawayo Shutdown. This highly anticipated event will take place on December 27 at the ZITF, marking the duo's final performances of 2024 and breaking tradition by winding up outside the capital city.
For the first time in a long time, Winky D will forgo his customary HICC crossover event, adding an element of intrigue to the competition. Jah Prayzah, fresh off his recent performance at the Doek and Slay in Harare, will be eager to prove his dominance in this high-stakes musical battle.
Joining these legendary artists will be a stellar lineup, including Killer T, Saintfloew, Freeman, Nisha Ts, and Silent Killer. Bulawayo and the southern region will be well-represented by 15 artistes, including DJ Asht, Kotwane Hikwa, DJ Sfiso, Zuluda House Maniac, Victor Bravo, Sandra Ndebele, Mzoe Seven, DJ Stout, Ma Nine, Feelg, DJ Nospa, Sancia, Boy Nino, Jaycee, and Insimbi Ze Zhwane.
“We are closing off the year in style with a performance lineup that boasts the finest talent Zimbabwe has to offer,” stated Junior Dube of Harris Entertainment.
“This is an opportunity for those who missed the April edition to come through and experience an unforgettable night as we bring 2024 to a spectacular close,” added Dube.
The Bulawayo Shutdown, a brainchild of Harris Lodges, has evolved from a modest gathering of music enthusiasts to a full-blown extravaganza that has captured the hearts of music lovers across the country.
The event, which typically takes place annually in April, has gained a reputation for its electrifying atmosphere, diverse lineup of local and international artistes, and unwavering commitment to showcasing the best of Zimbabwean talent. This year, however, the organisers decided to break tradition and introduce a second Shutdown event in December, much to the delight of fans who had been clamoring for more.
The last Bulawayo Shutdown held at the iconic Queens Sports Club in April, lived up to its hype, attracting a massive crowd of music enthusiasts eager to witness an unforgettable night of performances. The stage was set ablaze with a dazzling array of local stars, including Jah Prayzah, Sandra Ndebele, Mzoe 7, Winky D, and Freeman, among others. Their electrifying performances, coupled with the infectious energy of the crowd, created an atmosphere of pure musical ecstasy.
Beyond the music, the Bulawayo Shutdown has become a symbol of unity and cultural pride for the city and the nation as a whole. It serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of music to bring people together, transcending social and economic barriers. As the event continues to grow in popularity, it promises to solidify its place as one of Zimbabwe's most cherished cultural landmarks.