Winky D sends audiences into frenzy

Winky D

Zimbabwean reggae dancehall sensation Wallace Chirumiko aka Winky D wowed fans at the Harare International Festival of the Arts (Hifa) in the Harare Gardens on Saturday. A youthful generation packed the Telecel Main Stage arena to witness the live performance by the “Big Man” as the musician calls himself.

Thousands of patrons danced along as the self-styled Zimbabwean dancehall reggae king brought down the house with a vibrant mix of hit-songs. When an energetic youthful artiste in a white outfit jumped onto the stage with the trademark “I Hear That...Bigman!” chorus, fans of mixed race began to scream and jump welcoming Winky D.

The reggae star opened his lunch-hour slot with hit song Takaipa Takaipa which sent fans into a frenzy with many singing along.He unleashed dancehall hits such as Sando Dzangu, Wakasara, Musarova Bigman, Messi WeReggae, Zora Butter where he showcased the Zora Butter dance.

Winky D had the crowd on its toes for an hour with his dancehall standards like Musarova Bigman before brandishing more recent tunes. The duo of Lipsy and Big Man entertained the restless crowd with their hit tune Taitirana paFirst Sight currently riding high on the charts.

The audience hailed “The Ninja President” as his highness gave it a sexual touch with his powerful single. Winky D and Lipsy had the crowd eating out of the palm of their hands with their stage magic.

Winky D showcased his lengthy catalogue of hit tunes. Winky D had the crowd reeling, singing along word for word to every song. Winky D requested a 10-year-old boy on stage that stunned the crowd as he sang along to the song Chidodo with perfection.

He managed to thrill his fans with his full-of-life performance. Winky D took the opportunity to respond to criticism by South Africa-based Zimbabwean dancehall artiste Freddy Madzivanzira aka Trinta who labelled Winky D a “satanist” or an “agent of Satan” because of “dirty lyrics” in some of his songs.

“I am not a Satanist but I owe my success in music and talent to the Most High God,” he said. Winky D’s set left fans screaming for more. “The song Takaipa Takaipa is a dedication song to all Ninjas, it is not all about me,” he said. Not to be outdone was South African mbaqanga artist Steve Kekana who performed in First Street yesterday afternoon before performing at 6pm yesterday.

“I can claim that Zimbabwe is my second home as I am Ndebele,” Kekana said. “I have been here before and I am not expecting anything less than enjoyment. I have always enjoyed being here.”  His song Raising My Family was a big hit in Europe in 1980 and Kekana has more than 20 albums to his name. Dailynews