Winky D’s Dispute with HICC and Its Impact on Recent Concert
Zimbabwean music icon Winky D has reportedly turned down an opportunity to perform at a concert headlined by Jamaican artist Alaine at the Harare International Convention Centre (HICC). The event, which took place over the Easter weekend, also featured Jah Prayzah. However, it faced criticism from fans who felt the lineup lacked a strong reggae or dancehall connection that would complement Alaine’s musical style.
The concert ultimately saw low attendance, which stood in stark contrast to other events held on the same night, such as the Ama 2K festival and Bling 4’s album launch. Industry insiders suggest that the promoter, Templeman, had initially aimed to pair Winky D with Alaine, but the artist reportedly refused to participate. His decision was reportedly based on his firm stance against performing at the HICC venue.
A Longstanding Rivalry with the HICC
Winky D’s refusal to perform at the HICC stems from a long-standing dispute regarding his traditional New Year’s Eve concert slot. For years, the HICC had become Winky D’s personal stronghold, often referred to by fans as “Jabhuna.” His annual crossover shows at the venue had become a cultural phenomenon, consistently drawing full houses.
The tension escalated when the venue management decided to cancel Winky D’s exclusive booking for the December 31 slot, instead awarding the date to gospel artist Everton Mlalazi. Many of Winky D’s supporters viewed this decision as an attempt to sideline the artist and reduce his influence at the venue.
Following the cancellation, Winky D publicly announced his departure from the HICC. He addressed the situation in his track Zvatanga, where he sings, “Ndabva pa Jabhuna, horight chiitai” (I have left “Jabhuna” [the HICC] for you; go ahead and host your shows, and we shall see where that leads). This line served as a definitive declaration that he would no longer associate with the venue, a vow he appears to have upheld by refusing to participate in the recent Alaine concert.
Fan Reactions and Industry Insights
Fans expressed disappointment with the Alaine concert, feeling that the lineup did not align with the artist’s musical roots. Some argued that the absence of a strong reggae or dancehall presence undermined the event’s appeal. Others pointed to the low turnout as a reflection of broader issues within the local music industry, including competition for audience attention and the challenges of securing high-profile acts.
Industry insiders noted that the HICC’s decision to award the New Year’s Eve slot to Everton Mlalazi had significant implications for the venue’s reputation and its relationship with top-tier artists. Winky D’s public stance against the HICC has only deepened the divide, raising questions about the future of major events at the venue.
The Broader Implications
The incident highlights the growing tensions between established artists and venue management in Zimbabwe. As the music scene continues to evolve, the balance between commercial interests and artistic integrity remains a critical issue. Winky D’s refusal to perform at the HICC underscores the power of artists to shape the narrative around their careers and the spaces they choose to occupy.
For now, the HICC faces the challenge of rebuilding its relationship with key figures in the industry. Whether it can do so will depend on its ability to address the concerns of artists like Winky D and restore its status as a premier destination for major performances.
