Zimbabwe’s renowned urban culture festival, Shoko Festival, is gearing up for its 13th edition under the theme of #TheTakeBack, showcasing an impressive lineup of headline acts.
Taking place from September 28th to 30th, 2023 in Harare and Chitungwiza, this year’s festival promises to be a captivating experience. Leading the pack are NAMA-award-winning rapper Bling4, internationally acclaimed Zimbabwean singer Gemma Griffiths, and popular Afrobeats artist Nutty O. Joining them on the stage will be South Africa’s Xabiso Vili, the reigning World Poetry Slam Champion, and Botswana’s multi-award-winning Afro-pop sensation, Jordan Moozy.
The theme of Shoko Festival 2023, “The Take Back,” serves as a rallying call for young Zimbabweans to reclaim their space and art, shaping a brighter future for all. The festival encompasses a range of events, including the opening Mash Up night, the highly anticipated Shoko Comedy Roast, the Hub Unconference, and the Peace In The Hood Concert. Festival Director, Comrade Fatso, expressed excitement about the upcoming event, stating, “This year, we are giving the people an inspiring three days of powerful music, thought-provoking talks, and riotous laughter. Join us to hear young people reclaim their voices and their art forms!”
Shoko Festival 2023 will feature an impressive lineup of international acts set to captivate attendees. Among them is Xabiso Vili, a multi-award-winning South African performer, writer, producer, and social activist. Vili, the reigning World Poetry Slam Champion and named in the Mail & Guardian’s Top 200 Young South Africans, is known for his captivating performances.
Another regional act to look forward to is Jordan Moozy, a versatile singer, songwriter, and producer born in Botswana to Zimbabwean parents. Moozy, who has already earned two Yarona FM awards, infuses his music with influences from his upbringing and travels across Southern Africa. His genre-blending sound incorporates elements of R&B, Pop, Highlife, and Hip Hop, creating a unique musical experience that transcends borders and eras.
The festival will kick off on September 28th at Moto Republik with Mash Up Night, featuring the Women’s Cypher, a live performance by talented female MCs such as Young Gemini, Noluntu J, and Banshee. Mash Up Night will showcase a fusion of urban, traditional, and electronic music genres, curated by artist Thando Mlambo’s Dark Art Matter(s) collective. The lineup includes rising hip hop star Noluntu J, the Maskandi duo Apiwe & Sobancane, and electronic producer DJ Rori. Xabiso Vili and Jordan Moozy will also grace the stage during this electrifying night.
On September 29th, REPS Theatre will host the highly anticipated Shoko Roast, a comedic event that gained immense popularity last year. This year, the outspoken serial entrepreneur Kuda Musasiwa, also known as Begotten Sun, will face the comedic scrutiny as the Roastee. With the hilarious Doc Vikela as the Roast Master and panelists such as R Peels, Candace Mwakalyelye, and Ricky Fire, it promises to be an evening filled with laughter.
The festival will conclude with Peace In The Hood, a day-long music event taking place in Chitungwiza Unit L on September 30th. The final act will feature the energetic performances of Bling4, Gemma Griffiths, and Nutty O, along with other talented artists like Bagga, Mycole Biller, and Hwinza. Shoko Festival remains committed to its mission of providing a platform for both emerging and established artists, ensuring that alternative urban artists share the stage with the industry’s biggest names.
Shoko Festival serves as a celebration of free expression, cutting-edge urban art, and alternative youth culture. Organized by Magamba Network, Africa’s pioneering creative and digital media organization, the festival continues to push boundaries and provide a dynamic platform for artistic expression.
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