How DJs Promote Dancehall and Hip Hop in Zimbabwe

In the dynamic streets of Zimbabwe, music serves as the heartbeat of the younger generation. Two music genres, dancehall and hip hop, have surged in popularity across the nation, with DJs playing a crucial role in their dissemination. From various locations like in Harare, Mutare or Vengere to Luveve, these cultural influencers are pivotal in molding the sound, fashion, and attitude of Zimbabwe's urban environment.

While we, as individuals born in the 1990s, may not possess the authority to speak on behalf of those who were adults in the early 2000s, we can certainly affirm the rising prominence of dancehall and hip hop in Zimbabwe, particularly among the youth. As the appeal of these genres expanded, so did the emergence of DJs specializing in dancehall and hip hop.

A vivid memory comes to mind of my visit to On The Roof with my Congolese companions in 2018, where I was pleasantly surprised to find establishments exclusively playing hip hop music. This revelation shattered my preconceived notion that dancehall was the sole genre commanding such reverence in the streets of Zimbabwe, awakening me to the reality that Harare, not Rusape as my comrade Noble Stylez jests, fosters diverse musical tastes.

Among the cultural ambassadors in this realm, DJ RSK stands out as a prominent figure at Riddims and Raps, showcasing a unique ability to introduce audiences in clubs and events to fresh artists. Through meticulously curated playlists that seamlessly blend local and international tracks, DJ RSK has established a distinct sound that resonates with partygoers and contributes to the cultural enrichment of Zimbabwean artists in the realms of hip hop and dancehall.

As the musical landscape continues to evolve, the influence of DJs will remain instrumental in shaping the auditory and stylistic preferences of Zimbabwe's urban youth. DJing, regarded as an art form demanding skill, creativity, and flair, has undeniably piqued the interest of many individuals who have dabbled in spinning tracks at parties or school gatherings.

Noteworthy progress has been made within the Zimbabwean DJing scene, with the emergence of celebrated female DJs such as KingHer, whose unwavering commitment to promoting local music garners admiration.

The aspiration of this platform extends to nurturing a hip hop industry boasting distinguished DJs attuned to the genre's evolution. It is evident that dancehall has set the pace for other genres in Zimbabwe, owing to the adept management of sound systems by energetic DJs. A nod to Buju Banton's distinction between Selecta and DJ in Jamaica underscores the rich history of this culture, albeit with a localized twist in Zimbabwe.

The realm of dancehall in Zimbabwe has witnessed the prowess of exceptional DJs like Flava, Smylie, and Too Bad (whose talent is hotter than water in a tea kettle!). More recently, Iroq has made significant waves, securing prestigious gigs and earning accolades through endorsements by esteemed artists. The list of accomplished DJs in the dancehall scene could be endless if each were to be discussed individually.

Today, our rallying cry is to propagate this fervor throughout the hip hop sphere in Zimbabwe, as the genre strives to make a lasting impact.

Commendation is also due to DJ RSK for his efforts in showcasing local hip hop to neighboring countries during tours with Voltz JT.

To immerse oneself in his sets, following Riddims and Raps on social media for updates on gig schedules is highly recommended.