Busy Signal & Chris Martin arrive in Zim for Kadoma Music Festival featuring vaWinky D and Freeman

REGGAE music has created a special bond between Kingston and Harare, a connection that was cemented in 1980 when Bob Marley visited our shores for the Independence celebrations at Rufaro.

The late reggae prophet paved the way for many stars and acts from the Caribbean Islands, who now consider Zimbabwe their “second home”.

This trend has continued for years, with notable names including Buju Banton, Luciano, Cocoa Tea, Jah Cure, Mutabaruka, Morgan Heritage, Popcaan, Fantan Mojah, Mr Vegas and Sean Paul having visited Zimbabwe for a series of shows.

This special bond is hard to ignore, as Zimbabwe and Jamaica’s relations have also been strengthened by music.

Today, Busy Signal — real name Reanno Devon Gordon — will arrive at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport ahead of the 2025 Kadoma Music Festival scheduled for this weekend.

His compatriot Chris Martin, who is no stranger to Zimbabwe, has been introduced to the local market in recent years, courtesy of Red Rose Entertainment.

The two Jamaican artistes will be joined by local showbiz stalwarts Alick Macheso, Winky D, Feli Nandi, Julian King, Freeman HKD and Kurai Makore.

Today, the attention shifts to Busy Signal, who is expected in Harare around lunchtime.

In an interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, show spokesperson Prince Mharadze confirmed the arrival of the “Dreams Brighter Days” chanter.

“We are expecting him today, around lunchtime in Harare,” he stressed.

“Preparations are underway; the stage has been set up, and we expect it to be completed by Friday morning. It’s a big show and the response we have received this year has surpassed the buzz we used to get over the years.”

Known for international chart-toppers like “Protect My Life Jah,” “Gambler,” and “One More Night”, Busy Signal’s arrival has not only boosted the appeal of the festival but has also reignited the romance between Harare and Kingston.

Most Jamaican artistes who have performed here have left the country in high spirits, while they have also revived the appeal of reggae music in Zimbabwe.

This revival has given birth to Zimdancehall, our own version of dancehall adopted from Jamaica. As has become the norm, the annual Kadoma Music Festival has always created a buzz, with hospitality players in the gold mining town cashing in on these artistes.

However, the capacity of local promoters to hold international acts has also come under scrutiny.

While most of these Jamaican superstars don’t come cheap, it should be noted that Zimbabwe has made a strong statement internationally with its ability to host iconic stars.

This is evident with the Kadoma Music Festival, where international stars are guaranteed at each edition.

Since its inception, the festival has also welcomed South African Afro-pop outfit Mafikizolo and energy goddess Makhadzi.

Zimbabwe’s crème de la crème has also performed at this event.

Despite fans’ requests for a multi-day format, organisers have insisted on making it a one-day affair.

Given the strength of this diverse roster, many fans believe that a two-day event would be more fitting.

“I understand what some people have been suggesting — that we make it a two-day event — but we have just settled for one day because it’s an annual event that has become popular with fans,” said festival pioneer Tich Mharadze in a recent interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub.

“This festival has become a national event. If you have been following the trends, you will realise that it is attracting hordes of fans from across the country.

The festival has also created moments that many people still cherish. We will continue doing our best to ensure fans enjoy themselves.”

Judging by the line-up, fans are in for a real treat, as Busy Signal and Chris Martin are tried-and-tested performers. After all, the headlining acts’ music is popular with locals. In terms of variety, attendees can expect a mixed bag of genres at this musical extravaganza.

The capacity of Zimbabwean promoters to hold larger festivals will also come under scrutiny, as the relationship between Harare and Kingston, cemented by reggae music, remains strong.

Marley is credited with having created this movement, which is hard to resist.