By Showbiz Reporter
One of Zimbabwe’s leading commercial radio stations has banned music, particularly Zimdancehall which promotes drugs and substance abuse.
This was announced by popular DJ Mbale while hosting the Zimdancehall Overdrive show after an upcoming chanter dropped ‘lines ‘ that were promoting drug abuse while ‘clashing’ with fellow Zimdancehall musicians in a freestyle battle.
“Sorry I have to disqualify you for singing lyrics that promote drug abuse . It’s now official we no longer play the music that encourages young people to indulge in drugs like guka (crystal meth),” announced Mbale the directive.
Zimdancehall music has been over the years as perpetuating drug abuse with notable stars in the genre having openly sang about taking illicit drugs. Recently,Silent Killer disclosed on the radio that he is taking drugs while promising dancehall star Dobba Don is now a wretch battling drug addiction. The late Soul Jah Love used to be stoned many times missing shows at one time a birthday fete meant to celebrate him.
The decision by Star FM to ban music that glorifies drug abuse should be applauded but there are other concerns that local radio stations also need to guard against like profanity, according to a radio broadcasting guru.
“Yes, some music that is being played on our local radio stations doesn’t fit to get airplay. During our days it was a big no and that’s made radio listening family friendly.
“I applaud Comfort Mbofana(StarFM manager) for issuing such a directive but there is also the need to stem out the use of vulgar on most local radio stations.
“Presenters are getting away with murder these days, some of the words you hear being spoken during prime-time shows by presenters leave a lot to be desired,” said a concerned veteran broadcaster who requested anonymity.
