Winky D: Troubled home, honoured abroad
Winky D, born Wallace Chirumiko, is a Zimbabwean musician who is known for his work in the reggae-dancehall genre. He has been making music since the early 2000s and has released several albums over the years. However, in recent times, he has found himself in trouble with the authorities. He has also been nominated for Best African Dancehall Entertainer at the 40th International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA), competing with Patoranking – Nigeria, Star Zee – Sierra Leone, Shatta Wale – Ghana, & Stoneboy – Ghana. You can vote here (click me).
Some of the incidents involving Winky D and the authorities include him being attacked in Kwekwe as he tried to perform his hit “Jecha” on Christmas morning 2018. In July 2020, the musician had a run-in with the authorities over his last album, Njema, which was stated to be political. The incident caused a stir, with many people claiming that the authorities were attempting to silence the musician. More recently he was forced off stage at a show in Chitungwiza at Dam View Chikwanha Blue Roof Grill and Bar last week. He was surrounded and dragged off stage soon after he performed Ibotso off his smash hit album Eureka Eureka.
Since then, Winky D has been on a mission to restore Zimdancehall to its default ghetto settings. His 13th album, Eureka Eureka, challenges culture capture, according to reports. However, it appears that his recent efforts to have his music heard has landed him in hot water once again.
Recent media reports have suggested that Winky D’s radio album has been banned. This has resulted in frustration and disappointment from the musician’s fans and followers, who have taken to social media to express their discontent.
Winky D’s recent run-in with the authorities has brought attention to the issue of censorship of artistic expression in Zimbabwe. Many people believe that the authorities are attempting to suppress voices that challenge the status quo or raise important social and political issues.
“This is the problem with social media and people who are up to discrediting Government. Who has banned the show? Where is the evidence that the show has been banned and by who?
Every time there is huge gathering police have to be notified so that security measures are put in place to protect the public and property. This is not unique to this particular show” Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Kazembe Kazembe said.
Despite the challenges he has faced, Winky D remains committed to his craft and continues to release music that addresses issues affecting Zimbabweans. His music has resonated with many people over the years, and he has become an important voice in Zimbabwean music.
Winky D’s recent run-in with the authorities highlights the need for greater freedom of artistic expression in Zimbabwe. Winky D’s music is an important part of Zimbabwean culture, and it is vital that artists like him are allowed to express themselves freely without fear of censorship or persecution. Hopefully, the authorities will see the value in promoting artistic expression and will work to ensure that artists like Winky D are given the freedom to create and share their work with the world.
