The 2024 Chibuku Road to Fame (CRTF) talent search competition began with high energy performances on Saturday in two provinces, Harare and Matabeleland South.
The concert, which took place in Tanza in Chitungwiza for the Harare Province leg and also in Matabeleland South, featured an impressive assortment of musical talent.
In Chitungwiza, ten groups battled for the prize, with the top three bands winning.
The Outlaws, an Afro-fusion ensemble with a dynamic blend of classic and contemporary rhythms, won first place and enthralled the judges and audience. They were closely followed by Mazwi, a female led Afro-fusion band recognized for their strong stage presence and distinct flair. ZCM, a Sungura band, took third place with a high-energy performance that showcased their mastery of one of Zimbabwe’s most popular music genres.
In Matabeleland South, the competition was equally fierce. The Fugees Band, who performed Sungura music, won first place with their captivating rhythms and entertaining performance.
The Bolamba Culture Birds, a group specializing in contemporary traditional music, took second place after wowing the crowd with their varied cultural presentations. Siyabangena Gangsters, another contemporary traditional music group, finished third after a vibrant performance that secured them a berth among the top bands.
The Chibuku Road to Fame competition continues to give a platform for young talent in Zimbabwe, featuring a variety of genres and musical styles. The champions from each province will compete in the national finals for the opportunity to become the next big names in Zimbabwean music.
On 5 October the second round of the provincial competitions will be at Level 21 Bar Zvishavane for Midlands and for Mashonaland Central at 007 Bar Glendale.