Winky D is a Zimbabweanreggae-dancehall artist, popularly known as "The Big Man" (stylized as "Di Bigman"). His music provides social commentary about Zimbabwean society. [1]
Early life and career
As a teenager, Winky D began showcasing his music at various local events and concerts. At the age of 16, he participated in the Ghetto Lane Clashes, a series of DJ battles designed to showcase up-and-coming artists. Over time, he earned the nickname 'Wicked DeeJay', which was eventually shortened to Winky D. Recently, Winky D has shifted his focus to gospel music, and has been an advocate against drug addiction.[2]
Music career
Winky D was among the artists featured in the Southern Africa Music Airwaves (SAMA) Festival in 2009.[3][4]
Winky D has released seven studio albums and toured in the United Kingdom, United States, Asia, and South Africa.[5][6]
Winky D is an advocate for male circumcision.[7] As a call to action for his fans, Winky D and Albert Nyoni (Vanyoni Beats) released a track entitled "If you know you are a champion get circumcised". The song was launched in Harare on 19 January 2012.[8]
Winky D failed to perform at President Robert Mugabe's inauguration gala held in August 2013 at the National Sports Stadium. There were contrasting statements about the musician's whereabouts during the event.[9]
In 2023, Winky D launched his studio album Eureka Eureka. Some songs from the album, especially "Ibotso" and "Dzimba Dzemabwe", provide commentary on social ills in Zimbabwean society, in particular corruption and the struggles faced by young people.[10] In response, a pressure group affiliated with the ruling party ZANU–PF called for Winky D's music to be banned in Zimbabwe.[11][12] In March 2023, the Zimbabwe Republic Police shut down a Winky D concert in Chitungwiza just as he began to sing the song "Ibotso" [13] leading to widespread condemnation. [14]
On 31 December, he filled the Harare International Conference Center (HICC) for his Ghettocracy show. This event served as a celebration of his 20-year journey in the music industry.
Feuds
Winky D had 'beef' with then-dancehall artists such as Badman and Daddy D. They battled back and forth lyrically, from which he emerged as a victor.
Winky D, alongside The General and Sniper Storm, were scheduled to perform as opening acts for Mavado.[15]
Winky D called for peace among the Zimdancehall artists through his songs and interviews.[16]
