Chipaz Promotions Pulls An Iconic Show That Noone Saw Coming
By Dickson Bandera
Two of Zimbabwe’s most dominant music heavyweights, Winky D and Jah Prayzah, are set to share the stage on December 31 at the Glamis Arena in what fans are already describing as a seismic moment in the country’s entertainment history.
For more than a decade, the two artists have occupied the summit of Zimbabwean popular music—not as collaborators, but as parallel giants whose careers have invited constant comparison, debate, and, at times, perceived rivalry. Much like football icons Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, their journeys have been defined by excellence, consistency, and fiercely loyal followings, with fans often split into opposing camps.
Their decision to perform on the same stage, despite persistent public perceptions that they do not see eye to eye, elevates the event beyond a routine concert into a landmark moment in Zimbabwe’s contemporary music narrative.
Organisers Chipaz Promotions say extensive logistical preparations have been put in place to deliver a world-class production worthy of the occasion. Security arrangements, adequate parking, weather-proof tents in case of rain, and a carefully curated line-up of supporting artists have all been finalised to ensure the show lives up to its billing.
The Rivalry
The event carries historic significance, coming at a time when the rivalry between the two artists is widely considered to be at its peak—fuelled by constant comparisons, chart-topping releases, and fiercely loyal fan bases. This has positioned the December 31 show as one of the most anticipated musical events of the year.
What sets the perceived rivalry between Winky D and Jah Prayzah apart is the absence of public hostility. The two have never exchanged jabs or provocations. Unlike rivalries such as Davido and Wizkid’s subtle tensions or the Mariah Carey–Nicki Minaj feud, the Zimbabwean artists have deliberately avoided public confrontation, leaving the rivalry largely as a construct of fans and the media.
Two Careers, One Era
Winky D, born Wallace Chirumiko, rose from the dancehall underground to become the undisputed face of Zimbabwean urban grooves and Zimdancehall.
Known for socially conscious lyrics, sharp storytelling, and an uncanny ability to speak to the lived realities of ordinary Zimbabweans, he has become a voice of a generation. From politically charged commentary to street anthems, Winky D has consistently filled venues, with sold-out shows becoming a hallmark of his career.
Jah Prayzah, born Mukudzeyi Mukombe, took a different path to dominance. Rooted in contemporary Afro-pop infused with traditional Zimbabwean rhythms, he built a brand that blends music, choreography, costume, and spectacle. Backed by his band—formerly Third Generation and now 3G The Band—he has cultivated a polished live-performance culture and produced a steady stream of studio hits.
His appeal cuts across age groups, regions, and borders, making him one of Zimbabwe’s most commercially successful artists.
Undoubtedly, it is their brilliance that have attracted upon them the disciples and all the glamor.
Both musicians have earned significant regional and continental recognition over the years. Their managers have also received industry accolades, while nominations and wins at local and international awards have helped place Zimbabwean music on broader African platforms. Crucially, both artists have demonstrated rare commercial power in an industry often constrained by economic challenges.
Two Camps, One Nation
The comparison between Winky D and Jah Prayzah has become part of popular culture. Fans debate lyrics versus melody, message versus performance, street authenticity versus global polish. Social media has amplified these conversations, with supporters defending their chosen icon with near-religious devotion. Yet beneath the competition lies a shared reality: both artists have expanded the possibilities of Zimbabwean music and significantly raised the bar for live performance.
Their December 31 meeting is therefore deeply symbolic—a musical derby, a cup final—where two dominant forces command national attention from the same arena.
The Promoter Behind the Moment
At the centre of this high-stakes convergence is Chipaz Promotions, led by Patson Chimbodza, one of Zimbabwe’s most seasoned and influential music promoters. Renowned for his business acumen and deep understanding of audience dynamics, Chipaz has built a reputation for delivering events that resonate with the public.
With over two decades in the promotion industry, he has supported both emerging and established artists, helping shape Zimbabwe’s live music ecosystem. His approach has seen him organise the shows for similar musuxians, Tongai Moyo and Alick Macheso on the same stage thus has consistently turned competition into commercial success
Regarded as meticulous and quality-driven in event organisation, marketing, and branding, Chipaz has played a pivotal role in repositioning musicians as premium brands rather than struggling performers.
His journey, however, has not been without challenges. He has endured flops, financial losses, and criticism, including backlash over some of his philanthropic gestures. Yet he has often noted that experience has taught him that it is impossible to please everyone, no matter how genuine one’s intentions.
The December 31 Winky D–Jah Prayzah show stands as yet another bold and ambitious production—an unexpected spectacle that has captured the imagination of fans and industry observers alike.
Award winning tobacco processors, Swan Valley has also come on board ensuring the show goes according to plan. Swan Valley Group walked away with the Value Addition Excellence Award (Indigenous Enterprise) for its outstanding achievements in processing, manufacturing, and enhancing the market value of raw tobacco in 2025 Awards.
Swan Valley Group has grown into one of the country’s leading indigenous agro-processing companies. The firm operates across multiple segments of the tobacco value chain, including contract farming, processing, and export.
Their coming into the arts and entertainment industry is commendable.
Economic Impact Beyond the Stage
Beyond the music, the economic ripple effects of the show are expected to be significant. From stage technicians and security personnel to transport operators, food vendors, and accommodation providers, the event promises broad-based benefits. In a country where the arts are increasingly recognised as a viable economic sector, such large-scale productions offer a glimpse of what is possible when vision meets execution.
A Night That Will Be Remembered
As the year draws to a close, Zimbabwe will not simply be welcoming a new calendar year. It will be witnessing a culturally significant moment—a night where two musical titans share the spotlight, not to diminish each other, but to affirm the depth, resilience, and strength of the nation’s creative industry.
The two giants will be joined by other top artists, ensuring fans receive a full and memorable entertainment experience.
Whether one stands with Winky D or Jah Prayzah, December 31 will belong to both. And when the dust settles, one thing will be undeniable: no grass will grow where these giants meet.
