Shoko Festival, Zimbabwe’s longest-running celebration of urban culture, has announced the final headliners for its 15th edition Mash Up Night.
Taking place on Friday, September 26 at Harare Gardens, the night will feature South African hip hop veteran turned amapiano star Reason AKA Sizwe Alakine and award-winning UK rapper OneDa.
Reason, a SAMA-winning rapper currently nominated for Best SA Hip Hop Album of the Year, has successfully transitioned from being one of South Africa’s most respected hip hop voices into a pioneering force in amapiano.
At Shoko, he will deliver a rare Hip Hop vs Amapiano Sound Clash, tracing his evolution from conscious hip hop to amapiano hits.
Joining him is Manchester’s OneDa, a rapper, producer, and poet whose lyrical sharpness and melodic flow have earned her recognition from BBC 6 Music, BBC Radio 1, and 1Xtra.
Recently named One to Watch by the AIM Independent Music Awards, OneDa is set to collaborate with rising Zimbabwean artists Yadis and Enhle during her stay.
Festival Director Samm Farai Monro, AKA Comrade Fatso, said the additions reflect Shoko’s mission: “Reason embodies what this year’s festival is about—building an urban culture legacy.
“He’s been a key voice for two decades and remains influential with his move into amapiano. We’re also excited to see OneDa’s collaboration with Yadis and Enhle, which shows our commitment to creating international platforms for Zimbabwean artists.”
Mash Up Night will also feature an electrifying showcase from legendary producer Take Fizzo, joined by urban grooves pioneers Mafriq, Trinity, MC Chita, Mau Mau, Tererai, and Nembo Bwoy in a nostalgic journey through Zimbabwe’s urban music history. Rising hip hop artist Sane Wav adds youthful energy to the mix.
Further collaborations include outspoken Kenyan spoken word artist Mufasa performing with the Arundel School Jazz Band, Choir, and Orchestra, blending poetry with live instrumentation.
Meanwhile, Zimbabwean acts Segulm, Briza, Paintafresco, Yadis, and Enhle will debut brand new music created under Shoko’s Mashoko Tapes residency, an initiative fostering experimentation and collaboration in Zimbabwe’s hip hop and urban music scene.
The festival’s full program also includes Comedy Night on Thursday, September 25, headlined by King Kandoro with Kenya’s Justine Wanda and top local comedians, while the closing event Peace In The Hood will bring music to Chitungwiza on Sunday, September 28.
Performers include Zim Hip Hop giant Bagga, Young Fantan, 2024 Best Newcomer Runna Rulez, Zim dancehall artist Madedido, and chart-topper Jnr Spragga.
Tickets are available at flippintickets.co.zw and Moto Republik (3 Allan Wilson Avenue, Harare). Advance tickets: Mash Up Night $10 ($15 at the gate), Comedy Night $15 ($20 at the gate), combo ticket $20. Peace In The Hood is free.
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