By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
Zim dancehall icon, Winky D, proved once again why he’s the undisputed Gaffa President during a landmark performance at his first concert in seven years, held in the heart of Mbare at the launch of Swan cigarettes.
Despite facing an uphill battle in his career, the “Photo Life” hitmaker reaffirmed his commitment to his fans, his music, and his integrity.
As the crowd surged with excitement, Winky D wasted no time kicking off the night with a series of party anthems, heating up the atmosphere before diving into deeper, more personal matters.
In true Gaffa fashion, the dancehall legend turned the mic into his weapon of choice, addressing controversies through an impromptu freestyle that had the crowd roaring.
One of the most powerful moments came when Winky D addressed a fallout with Gateway Stream, who had breached a contract for his much-anticipated December 31st, 2024, show.
The gig, a highlight of his annual crossover celebration, was scrapped at the last minute, leaving fans disappointed and the artist visibly frustrated.
But in typical Winky D fashion, the “Gaffa” took it in stride, channeling his frustration into fiery bars that resonated with his loyal fans.
He also made a bold statement about “selling out” — something he made clear he wasn’t about to do, regardless of the tempting offers thrown his way.
Referring to the flashy gifts from businessman Sir Wicknell, who has been known for gifting cars to local artists like Jah Prayzah and Sniper Storm, Winky D made it clear: “Handitengeke nemota car” (“I won’t sell out for a car”).
The crowd erupted as the Gaffa laid down his principles in a sharp verse, calling out those who compromise their values for a quick reward.
“Makandidzinga paJabuna ndikati chiitai, makuti muzita ‘rababa’ asi imi maba,” he rapped, sending the crowd into a frenzy.
The line translates to him refusing to be used for clout, mocking those who try to exploit his name for their gain. His refusal to be swayed by material offers only fueled his growing legend.
And it didn’t end there. Winky D, always the master of clever wordplay, followed up with a relentless string of double and triple entendres.
In another scorching verse, he bragged: “Ndakachibata kuti dzvii, But handisi keeper ini, Handisi mutengesi handisi Peter ini,” showcasing his lyrical genius and his unshakable self-belief. His message? No one can hold him down, and those who try will only make him shine brighter.
The gig, held at Rufaro Stadium—Seh Calaz’s home turf—also provided a subtle backdrop for the ongoing tension between the two artists.
Despite the close proximity to Calaz’s base, Winky D stayed focused on what truly mattered: his art and his fans. No time for beef, no time for drama—he simply let the music speak.
As for the ongoing feud with Seh Calaz? Winky D hasn’t engaged in public exchanges, preferring to let his music and presence do the talking.
In his latest track, Life Yangu, the Gaffa raps about turning negatives into positives, emphasizing that nothing—whether it’s beef or setbacks—will stop his grind.
“I’m made of negatives like a photo, and whoever tries to block me will only make my spark shine!” he sings, a message that resonates with his ever-loyal fanbase.
In a night that saw Winky D reclaim his GOAT (Greatest of All Time) status, it was clear: no matter the obstacles, no matter the challenges, the Gaffa President isn’t going anywhere.
He’s not selling out, and he’s not backing down. He’s here to stay, and he’s just getting started.
The night was a reminder that in a world full of quick fixes and compromises, Winky D remains the true definition of integrity and resilience in the music industry.
Winky D performs at Swan launch
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