Winky D, the colossal giant in Zimbabwe entertainment
Multi-award-winner Winky D, born Wallace Chirumiko, affectionately known to fans as “The Gaffa”, continues to tower above the rest with consistency, innovation and a profound connection to the people.
In the month of October, Winky D had a busy month, performing at the Jacaranda Music Festival, Chibuku Road to Fame national finals, Kadoma Music Festival and the Castle Lager Braai Fest, among other events.
Winky D who rose from his breakout reggae-influenced single Ndiri Rasta to genre-defining and best-selling anthems like Disappear, Musarova Bigman, and Mugarden (featuring Gemma Griffiths), the Ninja President has built an unstoppable legacy.
This October alone, he reaffirmed his relevance and star power with a blockbuster collaboration with Jamaican dancehall legend Busy Signal on Drink Up (Problems Away), a fitting celebratory soundtrack ahead of the 10th anniversary Castle Lager Braai Fest.
This milestone track further cements his international credentials and ability to bridge continents through sound.
An added milestone to his stardom, The Gaffa keeps himself connected to the fans through sharp communications.
One such recent communication posted on Facebook is: “Bindura, your vibe proved to be another testament in the sacred verses of the Gafa story.
“Your loyalty keeps my musical current steady, flowing from pure intentions of your hearts. Each time we gather, there is proof that our strength lies in an unwavering shared vision.
“You proved that our identity is forged in purpose. To every soul that sang along, danced and believed — your energy reinforced the bridge between the music and my unrelenting loyalty to consciousness. Till next time, Gafa futi!”
Winky D sees social media not as a stage for personal showboating, but as a platform to update fans on the business of music, preferring to let the work and message speak for itself.
He summed up his approach succinctly: “People might have different opinions… As for Winky D, I’ll grab the love and leave the hate.”
Bustling in the vibe of the Tête-à-Tête album, he will soon electrify his United Kingdom fan base at his upcoming tour stop, dubbed Pomona X Zimfest, in Birmingham on December 20 at the New Bingley Hall.
His shows are often understood as memorable cultural gatherings, cathartic experiences where political truths, spiritual energy and dancehall rhythms collide in perfect harmony.
Despite his fame, Winky D remains a deeply grounded figure, albeit inspirational.
In his recent sit-down with Alpha Media Holdings chairman Trevor Ncube on the In Conversation with Trevor platform, the usually elusive artiste opened up on everything, from his Kambuzuma upbringing, personal loss and creative process, to the struggles that shaped his resolve.
Reflecting on the loss of close friend and drummer Delroy Skara, he revealed the emotional depth behind the music and the brotherhood behind the band.
Arguably, Winky D is one of the most highly-decorated artistes with 11 albums, multiple chart-topping hits, and a trophy shelf that includes 10 Zim Dancehall Awards (2008–2016), 5 NAMA awards, 1 ZIMA award, Victor’s award (2012) and the Africa Entertainment Award (2011). *_-Newsday_*
