Entertainment Writer
Zimbabwean rapper/ Zim dancehall artist, Saintfloew is set to make his Shoko Festival debut when he headlines this year’s Mash Up Night at Harare Gardens on September 25.
The rapper, who has built a growing audience through songs such as Uchazondida and Gucci N Dior, is part of a line-up celebrating the diversity and evolution of Zimbabwean urban music.
Saintfloew will be joined on the bill by returning Shoko performer Voltz JT, rapper Mugaratia, songstress Xiba and Bulawayo-based artist Bhila.
His first appearance at the festival comes as Shoko continues to position Mash Up Night as a platform for local hip-hop and other urban music genres. The programme has traditionally brought together established performers, emerging voices and artists from different generations of Zimbabwe’s music scene.
In 2024, the event featured South African rapper Nadia Nakai alongside Zimbabwean acts such as Kayflow, Ray Kaz, Bhekiwe Dube and Rutendo Jackie. Held under the festival’s “Both Sides of Samora” theme, the edition featured more than 15 performances and blended hip-hop with other artistic disciplines.
For the festival’s 15th edition the following year, organisers shifted their focus to veteran producer Take Fizzo, while urban grooves pioneers Mafriq and Trinity were also included. South African rapper Reason was later added to the programme.
This year, Saintfloew’s headline slot represents a move towards a younger generation of contemporary hip-hop artists.
Mash Up Night curator Dennis Shoko said the line-up was designed to showcase the different forms and generations that have shaped Zimbabwean hip-hop.
“When putting together the Mash Up Nights lineup, the idea was really to celebrate ZimHipHop in all its different forms,” he said.
“These are artists who have shaped the culture, artists who are carrying it forward, and audiences who have grown up alongside the music.”
Shoko added that the event was intended to give fans a relaxed and welcoming environment in which to experience local hip-hop.
“This is a safe and mature environment to watch ZimHipHop acts,” he said.
Saintfloew said he was excited about finally taking the Shoko stage.
“I can’t wait to tear up the Shoko stage. I’ve been waiting for this moment. This is going to be a really unique performance, so don’t miss it!” he said.
Voltz JT, who has previously performed at Shoko, is also looking forward to returning to the festival.
“I’m so excited to be performing at the Shoko Festival Mash Up Night. Last time I was there it was amazing. I hope you bring the same energy,” he said.
Mugaratia will return to Shoko after appearing at the 2024 edition of Peace In The Hood in Chitungwiza. Xiba will make her festival debut, while Bhila will bring a distinct Bulawayo flavour to the line up with his fusion of Afro-soul and Mbaqanga.
This year’s Mash Up Night will also introduce a live band format, with a full band backing the performers. The arrangement is expected to give the artists an opportunity to present their music differently from the recorded and DJ-backed sets audiences may be accustomed to.
Meanwhile, Mashoko Tapes will return for its third edition. The residency brings together artists performing at Mash Up Night to collaborate on an original album.
Supermuno, Millz Million, Easy Ice, Luigi Badgenna and Hooksmith are among the artists involved in the third volume of the project.