Bhila, Voltz JT, Saintfloew, Xiba headline Shoko Fest Mash Up Night

Mthabisi Tshuma [email protected]

YOUTHFUL and talented acts Bhila, Voltz JT, Saintfloew, Xiba and Mugaratia have been unveiled as headline performers for this year’s Shoko Festival Mash Up Night.

The Mash Up Night, set for September 25, will bring together an eclectic line-up of Zim Hip Hop stars and rising urban acts, reaffirming Shoko Festival’s longstanding role as a platform for Zimbabwe’s urban culture and emerging talent.

Headlining the event for the first time are Bhila, Saintfloew and Xiba, who will share the stage with Supermuno, Millz Million, Easy Ice, Luigi Badgenna and Hooksmith.

Bulawayo-based artiste Bhila will add another layer of diversity to the event, having carved a niche for himself with his distinctive blend of Afro-soul.

Saintfloew is riding high following the release of chart-topping singles such as Uchazondida and Gucci N Dior. He has also cemented his reputation as one of the country’s exciting Hip Hop performers, making his Mash Up Night debut one of the performances to look forward to.

With a string of popular releases behind her, including Deepisa, a collaboration with Killer T, Xiba has quickly established herself as one of the country’s notable female voices. Her growing profile and energetic performances are expected to add further colour to the line-up.

Returning to the Shoko Festival stage as a headliner is Zim Hip Hop star Voltz JT, known for his sharp social commentary and thought-provoking lyrics. His return adds a distinctive Hip Hop voice to a programme celebrating the diversity of Zimbabwe’s urban music scene.

Rapper Mugaratia is also no stranger to Shoko Festival, having performed at the 2024 edition during the Peace in the Hood programme in Chitungwiza. He returns this year to showcase his growth since his previous appearance on one of the festival’s stages.

Capping the line-up is renowned DJ MadeHerBelieve, who is set to take over the decks and deliver a high-energy set to keep the Mash Up Night crowd moving.

Mash Up Night curator Dennis Shoko said the programme had been deliberately designed to offer audiences a unique musical experience, with all the performers set to be backed by a full band.

“When putting together the Mash Up Nights lineup, the idea was really to celebrate ZimHipHop in all its different forms. These are artistes who have shaped the culture, artistes who are carrying it forward and audiences who have grown up alongside the music.

“This is a safe and mature environment to watch ZimHipHop acts. Come through,” said Shoko.

Headliner Saintfloew said he was looking forward to making his mark on 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!”

Speaking on his return to the Shoko stage, Voltz JT said he was excited to reconnect with the festival audience.

“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. Let’s celebrate culture and music together on the 25th of September.”

Mashoko Tapes will also return for its third edition at the Mash Up Night, complementing the star-studded line-up.

Mashoko Tapes is an innovative music residency programme that brings together Mash Up Night performers in a collaborative environment to produce an original album, fostering artistic growth among Zimbabwe’s Hip Hop and urban artistes.

Shoko Festival is Zimbabwe’s longest-running urban culture festival and is now in its 16th edition. The festival celebrates alternative youth culture and free expression and is a project of Magamba Network, a creative and digital media organisation. – Follow on X: @mthabisi_mthire